Illustrated Gazetteer of the Maritime Countries (Vol. 40)

General Treatise on the Maritime Kingdoms, Part II

How could such methods of conciliation and attraction fail to reach even the most distant places?

Indeed, for interpreters original: "xiangxu"; an ancient term for officials who translated the languages of distant "barbarian" tribes to convey intentions and sincere feelings is no easy task; for masts and sails to brave the South China Sea original: "zhanghai"; literally "the swelling sea," an ancient name for the South China Sea where waves touch the sky is no pleasant journey. Yet, since the kingdom of Huangzhi an ancient kingdom in the Indian Ocean, likely Kanchipuram in South India first presented tribute during the Han dynasty, the historical records have never ceased. In the great metropolis of Panyu modern-day Guangzhou, since the Tang dynasty, foreign ships have gathered like clouds.

It is evident that these distant races offer precious tribute because they regard the Central Lands as a heavenly storehouse original: "tianfu"; a place of immense natural wealth and abundance; these various foreign tribes embrace our civilization original: "huaiba"; to be drawn to the cultural and moral influence of the Chinese empire and seek trade to enrich themselves.

The Sage-Kings of old were well-acquainted with their customs; therefore, they bound them with grace and trust, and attracted them with trade goods original: "huohui"; specifically referring to the exchange of gifts and commodities. Thus the "barbarians" were filled with joy, and even elephants were brought as auspicious signs. This reduced the costs of border defense, so that war did not break out, and the surplus from trade taxes provided for military supplies.

Looking broadly at ancient and modern times, the successes and failures of systems tailored to the era can be clearly recognized. Therefore, those who pursue profit with a voracious appetite—this is the common nature of these tribes. Those who use circumstances to secure treaties—this is as solid as the defenses of the Western regions.

As Mengjian the courtesy name of Ban Gu (32–92 CE), the famous historian and author of the Book of Han said: "The Han has much wealth; they [foreigners] must trade to get what they want." Thus the kingdom of Jibin original: "Kanbin"; likely a transcription variant for Jibin (Kapisa), a kingdom in the region of modern-day Afghanistan/Kashmir sought to profit from imperial rewards and trade through its envoys.