Overview

A five-tier classification system for evaluating meritorious service and determining appropriate noble titles.

Steps

1. Classify the type of contribution:

   • 勋 - Establishing ancestral temples and securing the state through virtue
   • 劳 - Providing critical counsel and strategic advice
   • 功 - Military or physical service achieving concrete results
   • 伐 - Clarifying and maintaining proper rank distinctions
   • 阅 - Accumulated service over time

2. Evaluate the magnitude:

   • Did the service save the dynasty?
   • Was it during crisis or peacetime?
   • How many generations benefit from this service?

3. Determine appropriate reward:

   • Title rank (侯, 伯, etc.)
   • Land grant size
   • Hereditary privileges

4. Record the oath:

   • Document the basis for the title
   • Establish conditions for inheritance
   • Note any limitations or expectations

Decision Points

• If service established the dynasty itself: highest rank (勋)
• If service was advisory but crucial: second tier (劳)
• If service was military action: third tier (功)
• If service was administrative: fourth tier (伐)
• If service was simply longevity: fifth tier (阅)

Expected Outcomes

• Fair and transparent title assignments
• Clear documentation of why titles were granted
• Basis for evaluating future hereditary claims

Validation

1. Confirm each title assignment is classified into one of the five tiers (勋劳功伐阅) with documented rationale
2. Verify that the oath recording includes the basis for the title, conditions for inheritance, and any limitations
3. Check that title rank and land grant size are proportional to the magnitude and type of service rendered