shízhèng

Shízhèng is a transliteration of the Chinese term 拾政, which can be roughly translated as "collecting or gathering governance" or "restoring order." It refers to the act of reclaiming or re-establishing authority and administrative control in a territory or over a population that has fallen into disarray or been usurped. This concept often arises in historical or political contexts where a ruling power has weakened, a region has experienced rebellion or invasion, or a period of instability has occurred.

The process of shízhèng involves a variety of actions, such as reasserting legal authority, reinstating officials, collecting taxes, enforcing laws, and restoring public services. It can be a gradual and complex undertaking, requiring military strength, political maneuvering, and the rebuilding of trust with the populace. In some instances, shízhèng might involve punitive measures against those who disrupted order, while in others, it might focus on reconciliation and rehabilitation to ensure lasting stability. The ultimate goal of shízhèng is to bring a return to a functional and legitimate system of governance.