Empress Yuan Jingyu, originally named Meng, was from Weihuang, a place in Jiyang. Her father, Yu; for more details, see the "Biographies of the Empresses." When the Emperor was still King of Langya, he married her as a concubine, but sadly, they had no children. In Yongjia's sixth year, she passed away at the age of thirty-five. After the Emperor became King of Jin, he posthumously honored her as Empress. Some suggested that a temple should be built for her, but the Emperor said, "The ancestral temple has not yet been completed, so it's not appropriate to embark on new construction. Let's just build a structure over her tomb to serve as a temple." In the third year of Taixing, the Emperor officially issued a decree to confer her the title of Empress. The decree stated: "I have ascended to the throne by Heaven's will. I mourn the early death of my concubine; her noble reputation has been overlooked, and she did not serve as a model in the family or the state, nor did she sufficiently guide me. I am very saddened. The practice of posthumous titles is a tradition left by the previous kings. Now, I will send an envoy, who also serves as Grand Commandant Wansheng, with a scepter to present the seal and ribbon for the conferment of her title as Empress and to offer a grand sacrifice to her. If her soul is aware, she will surely feel happy." She was then buried in the Ancestral Temple alongside the Emperor, at Jianping Tomb. During the reign of Emperor Ming, in remembrance of his mother's nurturing grace, he posthumously honored Yu's wife, Lady Wang, with the title Lady of Yunyang, and honored his mother's remarried husband, Wang Han of Xinye, as Lord of Pingyang.
Lady Xun of Yuzhang was the concubine of Emperor Yuan. At first, she was greatly favored and bore Emperor Ming and Prince of Langye, which aroused the jealousy of Empress Yu. Feeling that her status was low, she harbored resentment and gradually became distant after being reprimanded by the Emperor. When Emperor Ming ascended the throne, he conferred upon her the title of Jian'an Jun and constructed a separate residence for her. In the first year of Taiping (Taiping Yuan Nian), the Emperor brought her back to the palace and treated her with great generosity. When Emperor Cheng ascended the throne, he showed her the same respect as he did to the Empress Dowager. In the first year of Xiankang, she passed away peacefully. The Emperor issued a decree stating, "In my youth, I faced misfortune and lacked the teachings and nurturing of a mother, and it was all thanks to Lady Jian'an's efforts! Her sudden passing has caused me great sorrow, and I will always hold dear the kindness she showed me during her lifetime. She is posthumously honored with the title of Lady of Yuzhang County, and a temple will be erected in her honor in the capital."
Yuwenjun hails from Yanling in Yingchuan. For more details, you may refer to "The Biography of the Empress Family." She is kind-hearted and beautiful. When Emperor Yuan learned of her, he appointed her as Crown Princess due to her virtuous character, and everyone recognized her. Later, when Emperor Ming ascended the throne, he established her as Empress. The edict for her coronation stated: "You, Lady Yu, have previously received the Emperor's command to be the Crown Princess, and you have conducted yourself diligently and sincerely in the Eastern Palace, conducting yourself in accordance with established norms. You are honest, obedient, and filial, embodying virtue and propriety; you are dignified and respectful, demonstrating excellent character. I have faced many hardships, and my heart has been restless. The ministers in court, referencing the records of past dynasties, all believe that the principle of primogeniture should be upheld, as recorded in historical texts, so you should be made Empress to serve the ancestral temple. Therefore, I honor the wishes of the late Emperor and have not changed the previous decision. I have dispatched an envoy bearing a ceremonial staff, concurrently holding the position of Grand Commandant, to bestow upon you the Empress's seal and insignia. A woman's virtue should embody gentleness, and a daughter-in-law should be dutiful to her mother-in-law; the importance of sacrificial rituals must be upheld, and family harmony is essential; only then can the country be peaceful and the people prosperous, and you can serve as a role model for mothers everywhere, subtly educating all under heaven. Heed the lessons of history and draw wisdom from books, as fortune and misfortune have no door; prosperity and decline are determined by human actions. Even in times of stability, one must remain vigilant!"
When Emperor Cheng ascended to the throne, he bestowed the title of Empress Dowager upon her. The ministers pleaded, saying that the Emperor was still young, and she should take a cue from the Han Dynasty's Empress Dowager Xi by overseeing state affairs. The Empress Dowager declined several times, but eventually had no choice but to handle political affairs. Her brother Yu Liang served as the Grand Minister of the Interior, responsible for conveying imperial edicts. When the officials submitted their memorials, they all referred to her as "Her Majesty the Empress Dowager." In the first year of the Xianhe era, the relevant authorities requested to posthumously honor the Empress Dowager's parents, but she repeatedly declined. Later, Su Jun rebelled, and the capital was captured. The Empress Dowager was deeply frightened and humiliated, which led to her falling ill from depression, and she died at the age of thirty-two, having served as Empress for six years. Later, Emperor Cheng missed her greatly and posthumously conferred the title of General of the Cavalry and the Righteous Three Excellencies upon Yu Chen, posthumously conferred the title of Lord of Anling County upon Guanqiu Shi, posthumously conferred the title of Lady of Yongning County upon Xun Shi, the Empress Dowager's cousin, and conferred the title of Lady of Jian'an County upon He Shi. Yu Liang also submitted a memorial stating the Empress Dowager's wishes and declined the court's rewards.
Empress Du, whose name was Lingyang, was from Jingzhao and the great-granddaughter of General Du Yu. Her father was Du Yi, as recorded in the "Biographies of the Imperial Relatives." For several generations after Emperor Cheng, there were famous virtuous individuals. In the second year of the Xiankang era, she was solemnly appointed as Empress, and she entered the palace on the same day. The Emperor received her in the front hall of the Taiji Palace, and the court officials came to congratulate her. They did not disperse until nightfall, when the palace gates were closed. The Empress was of average appearance in her youth, and even into adulthood, she had not developed any teeth, which led her family to politely turn away suitors. On the night of the Emperor's betrothal visit, she miraculously grew all her teeth overnight! Consequently, Lingyang County in Xuan City was renamed Guangyang County. In the seventh year of the Xiankang era, in March, the Empress tragically passed away at just twenty-one years old. Officials from the outer court visited the tomb every five days to pay their respects, while inner court officials made daily visits until her burial. The Empress served for six years but remained childless.
Earlier, the women in the Jiangnan Sanwu region agreed to wear white flowers, resembling white hawthorn fruit, in mourning for the death of the Weaver Girl in the Sky. The queen's death confirmed this belief. The emperor declared, "Proper funeral rites should be observed, but the level of extravagance should be based on practical circumstances. What good is excessive decoration underground? The queen's tomb should be simple, as long as it is kept clean, and no lacquered carriages or funeral items should be used." Officials requested the construction of mourning gates and the assignment of pallbearers, but the emperor refused, also prohibiting condolences from near and far. On the second day of the new year, officials requested the ban on orchestral music. The emperor decreed the ban on orchestral music, but allowed percussion instruments.
After Emperor Xiaowu ascended the throne, in the second year of Ningkang, the queen's mother, Lady Pei, was granted the title of Lady of Guangde County. Lady Pei, whose personal name was Mu, was the granddaughter of Changshui Commandant Pei Chuo, the daughter of Grand Tutor Registrar Pei Xia, and the great-granddaughter of Grand Commandant Wang Yifu. Her family was prominent and prestigious at the time. Pei Xia had been executed alongside Sima Yue, the Prince of Donghai, leaving only Pei Mu behind, who later crossed the Yangtze River and lived a life of wealth and prosperity. She built a mansion outside the Nanye Gate, which later became known as the "Dulao Mansion."
Let’s talk about Empress Zhang, whose surname was Zhou. She was originally selected to enter the harem of Emperor Cheng, where she was greatly favored and gave birth to Emperor Ai and Prince Haixi. Her initial title was Noble Lady. After Emperor Ai ascended to the throne, the Emperor ordered the relevant officials to discuss how to change Noble Lady Zhang's title. Grand Preceptor Huan Wen suggested she be titled Lady, while Minister of Works Jiang Hen argued for her to be titled Grand Lady. Ultimately, the Emperor decreed that she be honored as Empress Dowager, enjoying the same ceremonies and attire as the Empress. The Emperor also ordered an inquiry with the court officials if the highest respect should be shown to the Empress Dowager according to ritual norms. The Minister of Rites Jiang Yu believed that the title of Empress Dowager did not hold the highest rank, so the highest respect was not necessary.
In the first year of the Xingning era, Empress Zhang passed away. Emperor Ai wanted to dress her in the most elaborate mourning attire to express his grief. Jiang Hen suggested that according to the ritual, she should wear hemp mourning attire for three years. However, the Emperor wished to shorten the mourning period to just one year. Jiang Hen then submitted a memorial stating, "This places too great a burden on one's emotions, so we should strictly follow the ancestral rites." Emperor Ai agreed to have her wear hemp mourning attire for three years after hearing his advice.
Empress Kang Xianchu, whose real name is Suanzi, was from Yangzhai, Henan. Her father was Chu Pou, and his records can be found in "Biographies of the Imperial Relatives." The empress was wise and perceptive from a young age, and she married Prince Langye at a young age due to her esteemed reputation. After Emperor Kang ascended the throne, she was honored with the title of Empress, and her mother Xie was also granted the title of Lady Xunyang. When Emperor Mu ascended the throne, she was honored with the title of Empress Dowager. At that time, Emperor Mu was still young and had not yet taken control of the government. Minister Cai Mo and others presented a memorial stating, "Your Majesty is exceptionally wise and has ascended the throne, bringing benefit to all the people. As Empress Dowager, you should guide the emperor just as virtuous mothers did in ancient times. Just as Lady Tu Shan aided the Xia Dynasty and Lady Jian Di supported the Yin Dynasty, it was all because of virtuous mothers that the country prospered. We hope that you can govern the realm with the gentle and virtuous qualities of the two esteemed empresses of antiquity, ruling the country with kindness and stability. The realm is in peril, and the lives of the people hang in the balance. We ministers are filled with concern daily as we manage countless state affairs. Now is the time when the realm needs your guidance, a divine opportunity, not a moment for modesty. Empress He Xi and Empress Shunlie of the Han Dynasty both governed the realm, and we can take inspiration from their example. We are truly worried, so we earnestly implore you to take up governance, uphold the will of our ancestors, care for the people; only then will the realm know peace and the populace live in comfort."
The Empress Dowager issued an edict saying: "The Emperor is still young and indeed needs the assistance of all the ministers to fulfill the late Emperor's wish to promote capable individuals, to carry on the glory of our family, and to honor the foundation left by our ancestors. My actions are also for the sake of the country. I have received your memorials, which are filled with worry and fear. I have always been humble and cautious, aiming to follow the principles expected of a woman, so I will respect your wishes; this is all for the sake of the nation. How could I stubbornly insist on ignoring state affairs and contradict the late Emperor's intentions? I have decided to heed your advice." Thus, she began to preside over the court and manage state affairs.
The officials petitioned, saying that since Lady Xie had been posthumously honored as Empress, then Lady Xun and Lady Bian should also be posthumously honored, as they were both the late Emperor's mothers. The Empress Dowager disagreed. Grand Minister Yin Rong argued based on Zheng Xuan's interpretation, and General Wang Pou was very respectful to the Empress Dowager in the palace; when the Empress Dowager returned to her family home, Wang Pou treated her like family. The Empress Dowager issued an edict saying: "The ceremonial system is indeed still imperfect. I feel uneasy about following your petition; let’s study it more carefully." General Du Yu and the General of the South Shang Shu believed, "The dignity of a father is manifested within the family, while the respect between a ruler and their subjects is evident to all; Zheng Xuan's interpretation is reasonable and conforms to the rites." The Empress Dowager accepted their opinions. From that point forward, the court officials regarded Wang Pou with great respect.
After the emperor came of age and completed the coming-of-age ceremony, the empress dowager issued a decree, saying, "In the past, the emperor suffered misfortune and was young, and the foundation of the imperial family was weak, like a fragile jewel. The officials and courtiers adhered to the customs of the previous dynasty, advising and assisting in the regency. For the safety of the state and the adherence to ancestral traditions, they devoted themselves wholeheartedly and did not dare to be negligent. Relying on the blessings of the ancestors' spirits and the support of the empresses, the emperor completed the coming-of-age ceremony with full rituals and virtues, and was now able to attend court and govern the realm. Now I return the governance to the emperor, restoring all to the old ways." So the empress dowager resided in the Chongde Palace and personally wrote a letter to the ministers, saying, "In the past, due to the young age of the emperor, I followed the advice of the empresses. Because I am old and weak, and have suffered the pain of losing children in succession, I am filled with sorrow and distress, unable to find peace day and night. Minister Wang Dao is of high virtue and has helped me overcome difficulties, allowing the royal family to continue to this day. The emperor has completed the coming-of-age ceremony, but the world has not yet been unified, with rebellions from the Five Barbarians, treachery prevailing, and constant warfare, causing hardships for the people. I hope that all ministers will plan carefully, work together, assist the young ruler, and make up for my shortcomings. I will return to another palace to spend the rest of my days. I am always concerned about the state and my family, so I am writing these heartfelt words to you." When Emperor Ai and the Duke of Haixi were in power, the empress dowager again took control of the court. When Huan Wen deposed the Duke of Haixi, the empress dowager was in the Buddha Hall offering incense. A court attendant reported urgently that there was a memorial outside. The empress dowager came out and leaned against the doorframe to read the memorial. After reading a few lines, she remarked, "I suspected as much." She stopped halfway through and prepared to reply to the memorial with a brush, writing, "This widow has experienced various troubles and constantly thinks of the living and deceased loved ones, feeling deep sorrow." When Huan Wen first presented the draft of the decree, he was anxious that the empress dowager might disagree, sweating profusely and turning pale with nerves. After the decree was issued, Huan Wen was very happy.
Emperor Jianwen was honored as Emperor after his enthronement, and his empress was honored as the Chongde Empress Dowager. Later, after Emperor Jianwen passed away and Emperor Xiaowu was still young, Huan Wen also died. The ministers submitted a memorial stating, "The royal family has suffered a series of misfortunes, disasters have followed one after another, the country is facing numerous troubles, and the loss of the minister Huan Wen has left the people feeling anxious, not knowing what to do. Although His Majesty is intelligent and outstanding, he is still young, groping in the dark, like feeling around for a way forward, single-mindedly wishing to serve the country, but unable to attend to state affairs. We earnestly request that you, with your virtues of benevolence and compassion, personally oversee state affairs during this difficult time for the country. Your past governance was remarkable and widely praised by the people, and your achievements are well-known far and wide. Even the wise consorts of ancient times, such as Lady Shen, Lady Yin, Lady Ren, and Lady Si, cannot match your virtues. Thus, we all wholeheartedly support you, hoping that you can save the country, and we think of you day and night. Adapting to the times is advocated in the Book of Changes, and stabilizing the country is your responsibility as an elder. We earnestly request Your Majesty to handle the major affairs of the country, rectify politics, to comfort our ancestors and stabilize the people."
The Empress Dowager issued a decree saying, "The royal family has encountered misfortunes and difficulties in succession. After reading your memorials, I feel even more sorrowful. The ministers in the court all believe that His Majesty is still young, and everyone misses him greatly, but he is not yet able to handle state affairs personally, so there should be a source of guidance. As long as it serves to stabilize the country and benefit the people, I have no objections, and I agree with your request. However, my abilities are limited, and I hope you can assist me with all your heart." Therefore, the Empress Dowager once again took charge of state affairs. When Emperor Xiaowu came of age, he issued a decree saying, "I have come of age, completed the ceremonies of marriage and coronation, and the people of the world are hoping that I can personally handle state affairs and create a prosperous era. Now I am handing over the affairs of state back to the Empress Dowager, everything will be done according to the previous rules." Thus, the Empress Dowager was once again honored as the Chongde Empress Dowager.
In the year 384 AD, Emperor Xiaowu of Jin died in the Xianyang Palace at the age of 61, after a 40-year reign. His mother was the sister-in-law of the emperor, and courtiers were debating what mourning attire to wear at that time. The Imperial Scholar Xu Zao said, "Honoring one's father is just as important as honoring the monarch. The 'Book of Rites' states, 'A husband follows his father's teachings, and a wife follows her mother's.' Therefore, if a husband follows the monarch's teachings, the wife should follow the empress's. The empress should wear the full mourning attire, as this aligns with honoring one's mother. The state of Lu criticized inverted sacrifices to emphasize the proper order of respect. Now the emperor personally sacrifices to Emperor Kang, Emperor Mu, Emperor Ai, and Empress Jing, showing them respect as if they were divine. How can someone be loyal to the monarch but neglect their own family? I think we should wear the full mourning attire." Everyone nodded in agreement.
Empress He, whose maiden name was Fa Ni, was from Huang County in Lujiang Commandery. Her father, He Zhun, is recorded in the "Biographies of the Imperial Relatives." Due to her distinguished family background, she was chosen. In August of the year 357 AD, the emperor issued a decree: "The emperor informs the former Grand Commandant and military officer He Qi: Heaven and Earth, along with all things, have their origins, and human relationships stem from this. The husband-wife relationship is particularly important, to honor the ancestral temples and the state. After consulting with my ministers, we all agree that we should follow the old customs. Now, envoys will be sent to your family according to the rituals to propose marriage." He Qi replied: "I, He Qi, your humble servant, bow in reverence. The emperor's grace has come to our humble family to propose marriage, which is truly a great honor. My cousin, the daughter of my late uncle, Cavalry Attendant Officer He Zhun, may not have had the best upbringing, but she presents herself well. We will certainly adhere to the old customs and respectfully fulfill the emperor's wishes." The emperor then appointed the Prince of Wuling, Sima Xi, who also held the title of Grand Protector, and the General of the Central Army, Sima Qia, who also served as Grand Commandant, to formally proclaim Lady He as Empress.
Alas, she bore no sons. After Emperor Ai ascended the throne, he bestowed upon her the title of Empress Mu and let her live in the Yong'an Palace. Later, Huan Xuan usurped the throne and moved the Empress to the Situ Mansion. When passing by the ancestral temple, the Empress disembarked from the carriage and wept inconsolably, drawing the sympathy of many onlookers. Upon hearing this, Huan Xuan erupted in fury and exclaimed, "Changes of dynasties are common in the world, what concern is it of a woman from the He family!" He then demoted the Empress to the title of Lady of Lingling County, and they journeyed westward to Baling. Later, Liu Yu rebelled, and Yin Zhongwen brought the Empress back to the capital. The court also ordered, "The war is ongoing, the common people are suffering from hunger, yet the royal household's expenses are extravagant; how can they claim to share in the people's suffering? Reduce the supplies, do not be too extravagant and wasteful!" After returning from afar, the Empress wanted to worship at the ancestral temple, but officials said that the unrest had not yet settled, so the ceremony was postponed. In the third year of Yuanxing, she died at the age of sixty-six, having reigned as Empress for forty-eight years.
Empress Ai Jing, known as Mu Zhi, was from Taiyuan, Jin Yang, the daughter of Situ Zuo Changshi, Meng. She was initially the Princess of Langye. After Emperor Ai ascended the throne, she was made Empress, and her mother, Yuan, was also posthumously honored as the Lady of Anguo Township. The Empress reigned for three years without giving birth and passed away in the second year of Xingning.
Empress of the Deposed Emperor Xiao Yu, named Daolian, was from Yanling, Yingchuan. Her father, Bing, is noted in a separate biography. She was originally the Princess of Donghai. After the Emperor ascended the throne, she was elevated to Empress. She died in the sixth year of Taihe and was buried in Jingping Mausoleum. Later, the Emperor was deposed and made Duke of Haixi, and the Empress was posthumously reduced to the title of Lady of the Duke of Haixi. In the eleventh year of Taiyuan, the Duke of Haixi passed away in Wu territory, and she was interred alongside the Duke of Haixi in Wuling.
Zheng Achun, from Yingyang, Henan, came from a distinguished family. Her grandfather was the county magistrate of Linji, and her father was the prefect of Anfeng. Achun lost both her parents at a young age, had no brothers and four sisters, of whom she was the eldest. She first married a man from the Tian family of Bohai, had a son, and became a widow. She then lived in the Wu family of Puyang with her uncle. Later, when Emperor Yuan became the prime minister, his original wife passed away, and he planned to marry a girl from the Wu family. While Achun and the Wu girl were playing in the garden, someone spotted them and informed Emperor Yuan, "Although Miss Zheng is a widow, she is much better than the Wu girl!" In the first year of the Jianwu era, Emperor Yuan married Achun into the Langye royal household, and he took great favor in her. Although Achun was well-loved, she always wore a worried expression. When Emperor Yuan asked her why, Achun said, "I still have a few sisters; one of them married Prince Bao of Changsha, and the other two have not yet married. I'm afraid that my becoming a concubine will make it so that no one will want them." Emperor Yuan took the opportunity to talk to Liu Kui and said, "There are still two girls in the Zheng family who haven't married. Help find suitable families for them, so they won't suffer." Liu Kui then married his nephew to the third daughter of the Zheng family and married the youngest girl to the Li family of Hanzhong, both to good families. Emperor Yuan also summoned Prince Bao of Changsha to serve as a palace official to win Achun's favor. Later, Achun bore Prince Dao of Langye, Emperor Jianwen, and Princess Xunyang. Even though Achun held only the title of wife, he issued an edict stating that the crown prince, the Prince of Donghai, and the Prince of Wuling should treat her as their mother. After Emperor Yuan's death, Achun was granted the title of Lady of Jianping State.
In the first year of the Xianhe era, A Chun died. At that time, Emperor Jianwen was still the Prince of Langya, and he was deeply saddened, observing the highest mourning rituals. The court officials believed that since Emperor Jianwen was an adopted son, the standards for mourning attire should be reduced, but the ministers dared not correct him; instead, they petitioned for the removal of Prime Minister Zhuge Yi. Emperor Jianwen wrote, "My mother was alive here with me and is buried here after her death. Although I am adopted, I do not feel awkward at all; this is my personal feeling. When Empress Jing passed away, Prince Xiao, who was also an adopted son, wore the most solemn mourning attire. This is a clear example, and I consider this my standard." Empress Mingmu honored Emperor Jianwen's filial piety and changed his title from Prince of Langya to Prince of Kuaiji, posthumously honoring A Chun as the Grand Princess of Kuaiji. When Emperor Jianwen ascended the throne, he had not yet had the chance to posthumously honor A Chun as empress before his death, but he granted the title of Prince of Langya to his son Daozi, enabling him to inherit the state of Kuaiji and continue the sacrifices for the Grand Princess.
In the year 384 AD, Emperor Xiaowu issued an edict stating: "The Grand Princess of Kuaiji possesses noble virtue, her good name is widely known, and her virtuous teachings have illuminated the Jin Dynasty. The late emperor wished to posthumously honor her as a person of saintly goodness, but the court was divided in its opinions, resulting in prolonged disputes and unresolved issues. I carry on the late emperor's wishes and have kept them close to my heart. Now, in accordance with the late emperor's intentions, I follow the story of the Han Emperors recorded in 'Yangqiu' and posthumously honor the Grand Princess as Empress Jianwen." Subsequently, a temple was built for her to the west of the Grand Ancestral Temple, and her tomb is called Jiaping Tomb. "The virtue of the Grand Princess of Kuaiji, her graceful sound harmonizes, she gave birth to wisdom, and her light extends to Jin. The late emperor posthumously honored her as saintly goodness, but the court's discussions were not unanimous, leading to doubts and reluctance. I affirm my commitment to the late emperor's will and keep it in my heart. Now, I respectfully fulfill the legacy, following the story of the Han Emperors recorded in 'Yangqiu,' and bestow the posthumous title of Empress Jianwen upon the Grand Princess."
Next, the ministers all pondered the Emperor's intentions, and many felt that Empress Dowager Zheng should be honored alongside Emperor Yuan. The Emperor then asked Crown Prince Xu Miao for his opinion, and Xu Miao said, "I have referred to the records in 'Chunqiu Fanlu: Yangqiu', where it is stated that a mother's status is elevated by her son. Duke Huan of Lu's mother was honored, but a separate temple was established for Duke Zhong's mother, without having her worshipped together with Duke Hui. Moreover, Empress Dowager Zheng was not the late Emperor's wife during her lifetime, so to now designate her as an ancestor's spouse is illogical! Honoring her as Empress Dowager and building a tomb for her are duties that subjects should fulfill. However, having her buried alongside the late Emperor and worshipped together goes against reason." Upon hearing Xu Miao's words, the Emperor accepted his opinion.
Empress Jianwen Shun, whose name was Jian Ji, was from Jin Yang in Taiyuan. Her father's name was Xia, and his deeds are recorded in 'Waishi Zhuan'. Because of her illustrious family, she was initially given the title of Princess of Kuaiji and gave birth to a son named Sima Daosheng, who was the Crown Prince. In 358 AD, Empress Jianwen and her son fell out of favor and were both imprisoned, and later, the Empress passed away from sorrow. "Empress Jianwen Shun, named Jian Ji, was from Jin Yang in Taiyuan. Her father Xia, as recorded in 'Waishi Zhuan'. Later, due to her noble lineage, she was initially given the title of Princess of Kuaiji and gave birth to the son Daosheng, who was the Crown Prince. In the fourth year of Yonghe, both mother and son fell out of favor and were imprisoned, later passing away due to sorrow." In 373 AD, after Emperor Xiaowu ascended to the throne, he posthumously honored her with the title of Empress Shun, buried her alongside Emperor Jianwen at Gaoping Tomb, and posthumously granted her father the title of Special Attendant and Grand Master of Splendid Happiness, as well as appointing him as Cavalry Attendant.
Empress Dowager Li (Li Taihou), originally named Ling Rong, was born into a modest family. When Emperor Jianwen was still the King of Kuaiji, he had three sons, all of whom died in infancy. Since Dao Sheng was deposed and the Crown Prince passed away, the palace concubines had been unable to conceive for ten years. Emperor Jianwen had the diviner Hu Qian predict, and Hu Qian said, "There is a palace maid in the palace who will give birth to two noble sons, one of whom will continue the prosperity of the Jin Dynasty." At that time, Lady Xu gave birth to the Princess of Xin'an, who was favored due to her beauty and virtue. Emperor Jianwen had long hoped for her to conceive, but for many years, his wish was not fulfilled. At this time, there was a Taoist named Xu Mai, who was praised by the court officials for his deep understanding of Taoism. Emperor Jianwen casually inquired of him, and Xu Mai replied, "I love mountains and rivers and know nothing about Taoist skills. I can't predict such things! However, Your Highness, with your deep virtue and enduring blessings, you should continue your descendants. It's best to follow what Hu Qian said and expand the palace." Emperor Jianwen, upon hearing this, expanded the number of concubines even more.
After several years without any children, Emperor Jianwen had people skilled in face reading come and look at all the favored concubines, who were all deemed unable to bear a prince. He also had the palace maids come and be examined. At that time, Ling Rong was a palace maid in the weaving workshop, tall and with dark skin, and the other palace maids called her "Kunlun." When the physiognomist saw Ling Rong, he exclaimed, "It's her!" For the sake of the country, Emperor Jianwen summoned her to serve him. Ling Rong later dreamt multiple times of two dragons resting on her knees, with the sun and moon falling into her embrace, believing this was an auspicious sign, she shared it with the palace maids around her. Emperor Jianwen found this quite strange, and later indeed fathered Emperor Xiaowu, Prince Wen of Kuaiji, and Princess Chang of Poyang.
After Emperor Xiaowu ascended the throne, Lingrong was given the title of Shufei. In the third year of Taiyuan, she was promoted to Noble Consort; in the ninth year, she was further promoted to Lady; in the twelfth year, she was elevated to the position of Empress Dowager, enjoying the same privileges as the Empress Dowager. In the nineteenth year of Taiyuan, King Daozi of Kuaiji, Sima, submitted a memorial saying, "A mother is honored because of her son, and should be given higher respect. The Empress Dowager possesses noble virtues and deep blessings, having brought auspiciousness to the emperor and inherited the excellent qualities of her ancestors. Although there are distinctions between ranks, the title lacks sufficient nobility, which fails to convey the emperor's intentions and does not conform to the will of heaven and human feelings. Her title should be elevated, following the previous classics." On the Xinsi day in August, Emperor Xiaowu, in the palace, sent Grand Guardian Liu Dan to elevate Lingrong to the position of Empress Dowager, residing in Chongxun Palace. After Emperor An ascended the throne, he honored her as Grand Empress Dowager.
In the year 399 AD, (Emperor An of Jin, Sima Dezong) passed away in the Hall of Hanzhang. The officials debated his mourning practices. Left Supervisor He Cheng, Right Supervisor Wang Ya, Minister Chai Yin, Kong Anguo, and the Ministry of Rites official Xu Guang discussed together, saying, "The title and status of the Grand Empress Dowager (Emperor An's grandmother) fully align with the ritual system, with a high status, just as with the Empress Dowager; the mourning system and etiquette should be comprehensive. According to the account of 'Yangqiu' in the 'Zuo Zhuan', a mother is honored because of her son; since she is called Lady, the mourning should be conducted according to established ritual practices. Therefore, she should be posthumously honored as 'Chengfeng Xian Lady', and the mourning should be conducted according to the standard of Duke Wen mourning for three years. The gratitude owed to parents for their upbringing should be honored and cherished. Moreover, the worship of ancestors is endless for future generations, so posthumous honors and mourning are a natural duty and should not be limited by formality; the mourning system should be determined based on the circumstances at hand. If there is a concern about the lack of clear written regulations, then we should reconsider and agree that mourning should last three years, just as for a grandmother." Everyone agreed with this opinion.
The empress and all other officials wore mourning clothes in unison; only Empress Yong'an conducted her own mourning ceremony. Then, a memorial hall was established in the West Hall, a funeral ceremony was held at the Gate of Divine Beasts, and she was buried in Xiuping Mausoleum, with the spirit tablet of Empress Xuan enshrined in the temple alongside hers.
Emperor Xiaowu wanted to choose an empress, so he first went to ask the opinions of the ministers. At that time, Wang Yun's son, Wang Gong, who was young, had met Xie An before, and Xie An held him in particularly high regard. Later, Xie An said to someone else, "In the past, Mao Jia brought shame to the Wei dynasty, and Yang Jun almost ruined the Jin dynasty. If the emperor wants to choose an empress, the woman must come from a family like Wang Gong's with status." Then, the emperor inquired about Wang Gong's daughter and learned that she was both beautiful and virtuous, so he chose her.
During the third year of Ningkang, Huan Chong and others submitted a memorial to the emperor, stating, "We have heard that the way of heaven and earth is formed by mutual dependence; the virtues of the emperor and empress must be in harmony in order to make the country prosperous. In this way, all things can be in their proper place, ethical order can be maintained, the foundation of the country can be stable, and the nation can be enduring. Harmony between heaven and man cannot be separated from this. Tu Shan married Yu the Great, and the Xia dynasty prospered as a result; Nüwa married King Wen of Zhou, and the Zhou dynasty flourished as a result. Now that the emperor is going to choose an empress, he should choose carefully. We have heard that Wang Gong's daughter is naturally gentle and obedient, excelling in all aspects. Moreover, she comes from a prestigious family and has been virtuous since childhood. We believe she is well-suited for the emperor, can serve the ancestral temple respectfully, her virtues can influence the harem, and she can become a role model for women in the world." After listening, the emperor married Wang Gong's daughter as the empress and also conferred the title of Lady of Leping Township upon Wang Gong's wife, Lady Liu.
The queen loved to drink and was very jealous, which gave the emperor quite a headache. So the emperor summoned Wang Yun to the East Hall and reported the queen's bad behavior, instructing Wang Yun to properly discipline his daughter. Wang Yun removed his hat and offered his apologies to the emperor. The queen later somewhat moderated her behavior. In the fifth year of Taiyuan, the queen died at the age of twenty-one and was buried in Longping Tomb.
Empress Dowager Chen, whose name was Guinu, was from Xunyang, a region in Songzi. Her father, Chen Guang, entered the civil service through singing and dancing and became the governor of Pingchang. Empress Dowager Chen was beautiful and could sing and dance. She entered the palace as a noblewoman and gave birth to Emperor An and Emperor Gong. She died in the fifteenth year of Taiyuan and was posthumously honored as a lady, later revered as Empress Dowager, with her memorial tablet placed in the temple of Empress Dowager Xuan. Her tomb is called Xiping Tomb.
Empress Anxi, named Shen Ai, was from Linyi, Henan Province. Her father was Xian Zhi, and her mother was Princess Min of Xin'an. In the twenty-first year of Taiyuan, she was designated as the crown princess. After Emperor An ascended the throne, she was appointed empress. She did not bear any children. In the eighth year of Yixi, she died in Huayin Hall at the age of twenty-nine and was buried in Xiuping Tomb.
Empress Chu, originally named Lingyuan, was from Yangzhai, Henan Province. Her father was Chu Shuang, the governor of Yixing. She was initially the princess consort of the Wang of Langya. In the first year of Yuanxi, she was made empress and gave birth to Princess Haiyan and Princess Fuyang. Later, when the emperor abdicated in favor of the Song dynasty, she was then known as the princess of Lingling. She died in the thirteenth year of the Song Yuanjia era at the age of fifty-three and was buried in Chongping Tomb.
The historical records state: Empress Chu was dignified and steady, well-matched with the emperor, and exhibited virtuous qualities; her temperament was gentle, as bright as the sun's rays. Thus, it is said that the balance of masculine and feminine energies nurtures all things; the warmth and moisture harmonize the elements, allowing all to thrive. Describing her as virtuous, she was quick-witted, and her excellent qualities are indeed worthy of praise. Like Empress Xuanmu, Empress Chu had noble virtues and assisted the emperor through difficult times, leaving behind a good reputation akin to that of the Tushan clan, and the prosperity of the royal family cannot be separated from her contributions as a motherly figure to the nation.
However, Empress Wu Yuan of the Yang clan intervened in state affairs, was short-sighted, and favored personal feelings. She refused to listen to Wei Guan's advice and failed to see through Zhang Hong's schemes; her treachery clouded the emperor's judgment, leading to the gradual decline of the Jin dynasty, all of which was caused by her. Emperor Hui's temperament was inherently violent and shallow-minded, foolish like the croaking frog and the clam. The south wind ravaged, disrupting heaven. As soon as he ascended the throne, he revealed his cruel and brutal nature; when he saw the catalpa tree, he ordered the poisoning of ministers with toxic wine. The destruction of the Zhou by Bao Si pales in comparison to Emperor Hui; the downfall of the Xia by Mei Xi is even less worth mentioning. The Central Plains fell into the flames of war, and the root of the disaster lies here.
In the past, Emperor Gaozong was young and foolish, handing over the power of state affairs to elder ministers; King Cheng was young and weak, entrusting national matters to the Grand Duke. It was clearly not customary in ancient times for the empress dowager to preside over state affairs. However, Empress Mingmu and Empress Kangxian, while presiding over state affairs, were able to govern diligently and care for the people, wholeheartedly assisting the emperor. They learned from the mistakes of Lady Huayang and ultimately, just like Empress He Xi Deng, enjoyed peaceful later years, which is indeed fortunate.
It is said that the ancients praised: "Two concubines shine in Shun, three mothers support Zhou." This refers to the contributions made by Emperor Shun's two wives and the three virtuous mothers of the Zhou dynasty to the prosperity of the country. At the end of the Shang, Yi and Xin fell, and Bao Si led to the downfall of King You of Zhou. In short, the fortunes of a nation hinge on the influence of these women!
Next, it is mentioned about Mu Hou, the queen of King Mu of Zhou, who was quiet and devoted entirely to managing her household. "Forget romance and concentrate on cooking" describes her. There is also a story about "the old sword turns away from affection, while the reeds by the pond sigh," which tells of a woman who recalls past love because of an old sword and sighs by the pond. These stories illustrate that virtuous women can uplift a nation, while wicked women can lead to its ruin. The rise and fall of the Shang dynasty also have a lot to do with women. "Promoting virtue and prosperity can also sow the seeds of chaos in the Shang" means just that.
Then, there are the two Yang women of the Shang dynasty, Yang Fei and her sister, who were initially favored but ultimately faced disaster due to their own excessive fortune. "The scorching southern winds are merciless, leading to the nation's downfall" refers to their indulgence due to favoritism, ultimately leading to the destruction of the country and their own demise. There are also women who flatter rulers in chaotic times for power, "living in humiliation while appearing glorious," appearing honorable on the outside but filled with humiliation and unrest inside. Even worse, they used their pens to unseat rulers and wielded power to intimidate emperors! Ultimately, they faced tragic ends, and the Yin dynasty fell into sorrow.
In the end, the author lamented that those beautiful women, like "delicately graceful and charmingly fragrant," some had their fates changed by power. For example, the concubine of Lü Buwei became the mother of Ying Zheng, and the concubine of Huang Xie became a consort of King Huai of Chu. The saying "Shi Wenyuan wrote, Jin Hang Qianxi" also refers to women whose fates were altered by power. In short, some of these women relied on their beauty and cunning to captivate and enchant men, no matter the cost.
