The Scholar's Salutation to the New Moon is selected from the Chinese classical text "The Book of Songs" (Shi Jing). This collection of ancient Chinese poetry, compiled during the Western Zhou Dynasty, is one of the oldest and most significant works of Chinese literature. The text contains 305 poems, which range from folk songs to courtly odes, and it serves as a rich repository of ancient Chinese culture, history, and social customs.

The selection of the Scholar's Salutation to the New Moon from "The Book of Songs" is significant for several reasons. Firstly, the text reflects the deep connection between ancient Chinese society and celestial phenomena, particularly the moon. The moon has been a central figure in Chinese mythology, art, and literature, and its cycles are closely tied to agricultural practices and seasonal changes. The poem itself celebrates the arrival of the new moon, symbolizing renewal and hope.

Secondly, the poem's inclusion in "The Book of Songs" underscores the importance of poetry as a means of expressing social and political commentary. Many of the poems in the collection address issues such as love, loyalty, and governance, and the Scholar's Salutation to the New Moon is no exception. It serves as a testament to the power of poetry to convey complex emotions and ideas in a concise and evocative manner.

Data supporting the significance of "The Book of Songs" and the Scholar's Salutation to the New Moon come from various scholarly studies. For instance, a study by Wang (2015) highlights the role of the moon in ancient Chinese poetry, noting that it often symbolizes the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. Additionally, a research paper by Li (2018) explores the social and political context of "The Book of Songs," arguing that the text provides valuable insights into the cultural and historical background of ancient China.

In conclusion, the Scholar's Salutation to the New Moon is selected from "The Book of Songs" due to its reflection of ancient Chinese cultural values, its significance in the context of celestial symbolism, and its role as a vehicle for social and political commentary. The inclusion of this poem in the collection underscores the enduring relevance of "The Book of Songs" as a cornerstone of Chinese literature and culture.