臣本布衣,躬耕于南阳,苟全性命于乱世,不求闻达于诸侯。
I began as a common man, farming in my fields in Nanyang, doing what I could to survive in an age of chaos. I never had any interest in making a name for myself as a noble.
先帝不以臣卑鄙,猥自枉屈,三顾臣于草庐之中,咨臣以当世之事,由是感激,遂许先帝以驱驰。
The late Emperor was not ashamed to visit my cottage and seek my advice. Grateful for his regard, I responded to his appeal and threw myself into his service.
先帝知臣谨慎,故临崩寄臣以大事也。
The late Emperor always appreciated my caution and, in his final days, entrusted me with his cause.
受命以来,夙夜忧叹,恐托付不效,以伤先帝之明,故五月渡泸,深入不毛。
Since that moment, I have been tormented day and night by the fear that I might let him down. That is why I crossed the Lu river at the height of summer, and entered the wastelands beyond.
今南方已定,兵甲已足,当奖率三军,北定中原,庶竭驽钝,攘除奸凶,兴复汉室,还于旧都。
Now the south has been subdued, and our forces are fully armed. I should lead our soldiers to conquer the northern heartland and attempt to remove the hateful traitors, restore the house of Han, and return it to the former capital.
此臣所以报先帝而忠陛下之职分也。
This is the way I mean to honor my debt to the late Emperor and fulfill my duty to you.
愿陛下托臣以讨贼兴复之效,不效,则治臣之罪,以告先帝之灵。
My only desire is to be permitted to drive out the traitors and restore the Han. If I should let you down, punish my offense and report it to the spirit of the late Emperor.
陛下亦宜自谋,以咨诹善道,察纳雅言。深追先帝遗诏,臣不胜受恩感激。今当远离,临表涕零,不知所言。
Your Majesty, consider your course of action carefully. Seek out good advice, and never forget the late words of the late Emperor. I depart now on a long expedition, and I will be forever grateful if you heed my advice. Blinded by my own tears, I know not what I write.