Since the time of Shennong (Divine Farmer) and Xuanyuan Huangdi (Yellow Emperor), medical knowledge began to be transmitted. Consequently, the number of common people who were able to survive epidemics, diseases, or premature death is innumerable. Later sages rose successively; some practiced medicine for generations, each becoming a renowned master. Their miraculous prescriptions and ingenious applications all achieved remarkable efficacy, which cannot be counted merely by one or two.

Currently, Hu Yuanjie, Minister of Rites from Piling, possessing upright and rigorous conduct along with extensive and profound learning, started as a Jinshi (degree holder), served successively as Chief Censor of the Department of Personnel, and was later appointed Vice Minister of Rites. He enjoyed the high favor and heavy trust of Emperor Wen of Taizong. During his years of touring various regions, whenever he encountered prescriptions and medicines taught by famous physicians or extraordinary individuals, he compiled and organized them into a collection. Classified into categories, it totaled twelve volumes, named *Weisheng Yijian Fang* (Hygiene Easy and Simple Prescriptions). He submitted the handwritten copy to the Emperor, who was delighted and intended to have it carved on woodblocks for printing to widely disseminate it. Shortly thereafter, the Emperor passed away, and this wish remained unfulfilled. Until now, several years have passed. Mr. Hu, holding his original post concurrently as Chancellor of the National Academy in Nanjing, and subsequently receiving the appointment of Minister of Rites, recalled the deep grace of the late Emperor. Feeling that he had not yet fully repaid the merit of saving the masses, he never forgot day or night. Thus, he took the duplicate copy of the prescription book previously submitted, had it carved on woodblocks for transmission, and requested me to write a few words as an epilogue.

Alas! In the past, when the late Emperor reigned, he worked diligently from early morning till late at night, fearing that any citizen might not find their proper place. Therefore, amidst the leisure after handling myriad state affairs, he extensively collected various prescriptions, prepared miraculous medicines, and bestowed them upon ministers and subjects suffering from illnesses, all yielding miraculous results. The imperial benevolence was so profound that it was engraved in heart and bone; how ultimate it was! This compilation by Mr. Hu truly embodies the late Emperor's intention to bestow benefits broadly and save the multitude, and its benefit to humanity can indeed be said to be far-reaching. Therefore, those who read this compilation will not only see the rescue of those in critical danger and the revival of the dying, but also perceive the magnificent unity of heart and virtue between the monarch and ministers of our dynasty.

On the first day of the eighth lunar month in the second year of Xuande, Zeng Qi, Gentleman of the Left Spring Hall University, Hanlin Academician Reader, and Compiler of the National History from Luling, respectfully wrote this postscript.

The aforementioned *Weisheng Yijian Fang*, twelve volumes, was compiled by Hu Gong, Minister of Rites from Piling. When Gong served as Vice Minister, he was sent on missions to various regions. Besides observing customs and asking about folk conditions, he extensively collected ancient and modern medical prescriptions. Those that could be verified and tested were classified and edited into *Weisheng Yijian Fang*. It was presented to the court, and Emperor Wen of Taizong praised it. Soon after, Gong had it carved on woodblocks for dissemination to expand its beneficial utility. Alas, how profound is Gong's heart! Scholars serving in the world aim to assist the ruler and benefit the people; thus, they must undertake anything that benefits others. Is this not the way of a benevolent gentleman? By compiling and displaying this prescription book, Gong exemplifies this. From this, we know that as a minister, Gong's strategies are meticulous, and matters benefiting governance and extending kindness to people are undoubtedly numerous.

In the past, Chen Yaosou, Attendant Gentleman of the Song Dynasty, while serving as Transport Commissioner of the Guangnan West Circuit, heard that local customs involved many people refusing medicine for illnesses, leading to premature and violent deaths. Chen Yaosou carved verified prescriptions on stones at the Guizhou post station, instructing people to seek medicines according to the prescriptions and follow his teachings; most patients recovered. Chen Yaosou was a famous minister of the Song Dynasty, possessing scholarship, administrative skills, and the ability to save people in such a manner. Is he not what is called a benevolent gentleman? Are Gong's fame, status, and intentions inferior to those of Yaosou? His virtues deserve praise. I showed this to Ying, so Ying wrote this postscript behind it.

Wang Ying, Gentleman of the Right Spring Hall University, Concurrent Hanlin Academician Lecturer, from Taiyuan, respectfully inscribed.