Emperor Wenxuan, whose name was Yang, courtesy name Zijin, was the second son of Gaozu and the younger brother of Emperor Wen. When his mother was pregnant, a red light shone into the room every night, which his mother found very strange. At that time, Gaozu had just escaped from the hands of Erzhu Rong, and the family was in dire poverty, making life very difficult. His mother, along with relatives and friends, worried about having enough to eat and starving. Little Emperor Wenxuan couldn't even speak at that time, but suddenly said, "I can survive!" His mother and those around her were shocked, and no one dared to speak. From a young age, this child was truly different, with sturdy ankles, not fond of playing, having a calm temperament, and a dignified demeanor. In Jinyang, there was a monk who sometimes seemed foolish and sometimes very clever, and no one understood what was going on with him, so they called him "Master Atu." When Emperor Wenxuan was a child and met him with other children, he asked what official position he could hold in the future. When asked about Emperor Wenxuan, the monk raised his hand towards the sky three times without uttering a single word. Everyone found it very strange. Gaozu once wanted to gauge his sons' thoughts, so he asked them to sort out the tangled silk threads. Only Emperor Wenxuan picked up a knife and sliced through the threads, saying, "If it's messy, it should be cut off!" Gaozu admired his decisive character. He also had his sons take their troops out for drills, sending elite soldiers to stage mock attacks. Emperor Wen and the others were terrified, but only Emperor Wenxuan bravely led his troops against Peng Le. Peng Le removed his helmet and pleaded for mercy, but Emperor Wenxuan captured him and presented him to Gaozu anyway.
Once, following Emperor Shizong through Liaoyang Mountain, only Emperor Wenxuan saw the Heavenly Gate open, and no one else saw it. Although Emperor Wenxuan was intelligent and quick-witted, he didn't look particularly impressive. Shizong always mocked him, saying, "Can this person also get rich and become an official? Is fortune-telling really reliable?" Only Gaozu felt that he was different and said to Xue Chu, "This kid's thinking is beyond me." When Emperor Wenxuan was a child, he studied under Lu Jingyu from Fanyang, with an exceptional memory; even Lu Jingyu couldn't see through him.
In the second year of Tianping, he was appointed as Cavalier Attendant, General of the Cavalry, Supervisor of the Righteous Three Offices, Grand Master of Splendor on the Left, and Duke of Taiyuan. In the first year of Wuding, he was promoted to Palace Attendant. In the second year of Wuding, he was further promoted to Minister Steward of the Left and Leading General. In the fifth year of Wuding, he became the Prefect of the Masters of Writing, Director of the Palace Library, and Commander-in-Chief of the Capital Region.
In August of the seventh year of Wuding, Emperor Shizong was suddenly assassinated, which happened too suddenly, causing panic in the court and the people. But the Emperor remained calm, acting with composure, personally executed the rebels and coated their heads in lacquer, and then calmly announced, "The rebellion has been quelled; the Grand General has some minor injuries, but he's fine." Everyone present at the time was shocked.
Afterward, the Emperor went to Jinyang to personally manage state affairs, advocating for mercy and fairness. Any rules and regulations that were considered inconvenient were abolished. On the first day of October, he appointed Prince Xianyang Tan as Grand Tutor and Pan Xiangle as Minister of Works; in November, envoys from the Tuyuhun Kingdom came to offer tribute; Liang's Qizhou Inspector Mao Lingbin, Dezhou Inspector Liu Lingdui, Nanyuzhou Inspector Huangfu Sheng, and others who governed their respective regions all submitted to his rule. In December, he appointed Peng Le, the Inspector of Bingzhou, as Minister of Works, and He Baren, the Grand Preceptor, as the Inspector of Bingzhou.
In the first month of the eighth year, Song Anggu, the governor of Chuzhou in Liang, also surrendered along with his state. The next day, the emperor of Wei held a mourning ceremony for the late emperor in the Eastern Hall. The governors of Dingzhou, Tian Congneng, and Hongzhou, Zhang Xian, also submitted their states. Afterwards, the emperor of Wei issued a decree, promoting his title to the Prince of Qi, granting him a fief of ten thousand households, and giving him many important positions such as Prime Minister and Commander, giving him significant power. Subsequently, the envoy from Douyu also came to pay tribute. In the third month, he was further enfeoffed as the King of Qi, with his fief increased to one hundred thousand households and his jurisdiction expanded.
Since living in Jinyang, his palace was as bright as day at night. After becoming the King of Qi, he dreamed that someone had made a mark on his forehead with a pen. The next morning, he told his advisor Wang Tan Zhe about it, asking, "Should I take a step back?" Wang Tan Zhe quickly knelt down and congratulated him, saying, "Your Highness, with a mark on your forehead, it becomes the character for 'lord,' you should continue to move forward!" In May, the emperor traveled to Ye City. Afterwards, his title and power were elevated once again, being appointed as the Chancellor, in charge of all government affairs, with his fief increased to two hundred thousand households and his jurisdiction further expanded. He also received the honor of the Nine Treasures, various special treatments, while retaining the title of King of Qi. The emperor of Wei also sent Prince Pengcheng Shao and Minister Pan Xiangle to confer him.
Hey! Listen up! Heaven is supreme, look at how it created the sun, moon, and stars, arranged the laws of the universe; the earth is profound, look at how it nurtured mountains and rivers, nourishing all living things. Therefore, the seasons are orderly, all things flourish, each living being has its place, without any premature deaths. It is precisely because of this that the emperors of old, high above, could refrain from issuing orders lightly, entrusting wise ministers to govern the country, just like Boyi of the Xia Dynasty, Yi Yin of the Shang Dynasty, governing effortlessly like King Cheng of Zhou, Emperor Zhao of Han; only then can the country be at peace.
Things have been unsettled lately; the nation is in grave peril, and our great founding mission is on the brink of failure! Fortunately, King Xianwu is brave and decisive, quickly calming the storm and working tirelessly to govern the realm. Later, King Wenxiang inherited his legacy, further prospering the country and bringing stability and prosperity to the people. His contributions are truly legendary.
King Wenxiang, a wise ruler who comes around once in a millennium, with deep foresight and extraordinary wisdom, promoting strong leadership and kind governance. Though his achievements are vast and hard to put into words, we need to document his deeds and hold a ceremony to celebrate his contributions. Now, I announce the following orders; pay close attention!
From the beginning, the king established a regime, governed the people, ruled with wisdom, making sure the people are well-off, promoting integrity, and benevolent governance. He changed customs and practices, transforming the state of Qi into the state of Lu, and it’s all thanks to the king! He also served as the governor of Tiantai, leading the troops with brilliant strategies, pacifying the northern regions, bringing peace to the borders, and it’s all thanks to the king! During the Guangtong period, he inherited the will of the late emperor, assisting the emperor in unifying the country and bringing peace and prosperity, with everyone living happily and peacefully, and it’s all thanks to the king! Some southern tribes resisted his authority, but he led troops to conquer, formulating strategies and eventually bringing peace to the Huai Chu region, and it’s all thanks to the king!
He led his troops to fight in the Guanzhong and Xianshan regions, overcoming great challenges. These areas, once desolate, flourished under his leadership. The army under his command was unstoppable, swiftly routing the enemy, all thanks to the king's achievements! The Jinxid region is strategically located but its people are uneducated. He dispatched troops to thoroughly pacify the region, gaining renown and instilling fear in the Southern Sea region, all thanks to the king's achievements! The southern tribes had long been unruly, constantly harassing the borders. By combining benevolence with authority, he made these tribes submit, coming to pay tribute, also thanks to the king's achievements! The northern Hu tribes occupied the valleys, with numerous tribes over vast lands, refusing to submit to the court's jurisdiction. Through benevolent teachings, he made them come to pay respects and offer tribute to the court, also thanks to the king's achievements! Foreign enemies frequently invaded our lands. Through clever strategies, he brought them to submit, with these overseas envoys coming to pay tribute, offering exotic and rare animals, all thanks to the king's achievements! The Qin Chuan region had previously opposed us. He sent gifts, seeking reconciliation, which ultimately swayed the opposing side. Both countries have since been friendly, also thanks to the king's achievements! When disaster befell the Jiangyin region, the people were displaced. He sheltered the descendants of the Xiaozong, and people flocked to him like birds returning to their nests and rivers flowing to the sea. Ten tribes from Jingzhou also pledged their allegiance to him, allowing him to pacify the Zhufang area, also thanks to the king's achievements! With peace reigning across the land, the people thrived in peace and prosperity, with auspicious signs appearing frequently. Chroniclers diligently documented these significant events, with the nation flourishing and its people prospering, all thanks to the king's achievements! He reformed governance, selected talented individuals, and restored the rites and music system, reduced taxes, and pardoned criminals. His reputation for benevolence and integrity spread far and wide, also thanks to the king's achievements!
His Majesty Wang has made such great contributions to the country, combined with his noble character; we should strongly commend his accomplishments. In ancient times, those wise ministers who assisted the monarch, Wang should also emulate them and take on the heavy responsibilities of the country.
Ah, what is said above is about the calculations of man and the will of heaven, the harmony of yin and yang, and the various blessings that Heaven bestows upon the emperor are all to demonstrate justice. Your Majesty, abide by the law, rule with propriety, govern the people, and dedicate yourself to the Way; so you are bestowed a path for the army and a path for the common people, as well as two black oxen-drawn carriages.
Your Majesty, caring for the people and putting their food, clothing, shelter, and transportation at heart, so you are bestowed a set of splendid ceremonial robes and red shoes. Your Majesty, demonstrating grace through good governance, even moving Heaven itself with your immeasurable merits, so you are rewarded with magnificent musical instruments and a dance of six dancers. Your Majesty, your fame spreads far and wide, the country is stable, and people from afar come to pay their respects and offer tribute, so you are rewarded with a vermilion door.
Your Majesty, recruiting talents and selecting them without missing any, so you are rewarded with a staircase leading to the court. Your Majesty, brave and decisive, able to distinguish right from wrong and handle matters fairly, so you are rewarded with three hundred guards. Your Majesty, able to decide the rise and fall of the country, carry out divine punishment, and punish criminals, so you are rewarded with an axe and a yue each.
Your Majesty, as keen as an eagle and as swift as a leopard, able to quickly handle all matters, so you are rewarded with a red bow, one hundred red arrows, ten lu bows, and one thousand lu arrows. Your Majesty, filial to your parents, loving towards your siblings, moving Heaven and Earth, so you are rewarded with a wine vessel and jade objects. You are to honor these rewards, assist the royal family, maintain your virtues, and continue the great achievements of the founding emperor!
Emperor Wen of Wei felt that even Heaven wished for him to govern the country well. On the day of Bingchen, he issued a royal decree:
It is said that the great trends of the world, the rise and fall of empires, have always been predetermined since ancient times. Heaven embodies the virtue of nurturing life, governing the world, stabilizing the earth, respecting the spirits, protecting the people, and creating all things. All of these originate from the will of heaven, not the merit of any one person, but the result of the workings of the heavenly order. Our ancestors followed the mandate of heaven, expanded the territory, and went through several generations of wise monarchs, gradually strengthening the country. However, later on, our family declined, chaos spread throughout the land, and impostors pretending to be from our clan were rampant; those who arrogantly issued orders were not just the Three Dukes. The court was in crisis, and the people were in a state of panic, as the world was about to change hands.
Fortunately, King Xianwu of Qi was brave and skilled in battle, suppressing the rebellion and restoring peace and prosperity throughout the land, stabilizing the order of the world. His contributions were immense and unmatched. Afterwards, King Wenxiang inherited his father's legacy, further expanding the territory, ensuring peace throughout the land, and strengthening the country, enabling the people to live and work in harmony. As for King Qi, he was adept in both civil governance and military strategy, inheriting and developing the achievements of his ancestors. He was far-sighted, insightful of the people's sentiments, and his governance was widely praised. The people lived in peace and contentment, with envoys coming from all directions; even the remote desert regions sent tribute, expressing their respect. This is truly a rare opportunity bestowed by the mandate of heaven! Various auspicious signs have appeared frequently, and the people of the world sing praises, all of which are the will of heaven, and I know this in my heart.
I have inherited the foundation laid by my ancestors, and now I must shoulder this heavy responsibility. In order to ensure the continued prosperity of our ancestral lineage, I have carefully considered the future of the country. Thinking of the examples set by Tang, Yao, and Shun, as well as the modest actions of monarchs during the Wei and Jin periods, how could I forget the cyclical nature of rise and fall and disappoint the expectations of the spirits? Therefore, I have decided to abdicate the throne in favor of the Kingdom of Qi, appointing capable individuals and emulating the examples set by wise rulers of the past. I urge all ministers to publicly announce my decision and implement it promptly.
I also command the Grand Marshal, Prince of Pengcheng, Shao, and the Minister of Works, Jing Xianjun, to present the decree, the contents of which are detailed as follows:
Hey, King Qi, listen up! The heavens and the earth, as well as all things in the world, each have their own laws of operation. With the changing of kings, how can one family hold all the power? Consider the ancient rulers Yao, Shun, and Yu. Yao passed down the jade seal of the country to Shun, who then passed power to Yu. Isn't that wonderful? These wise monarchs had achievements that have been celebrated through the ages. Who says that rise and fall, success and failure, are entirely determined by fate? Who says everything must be left to fate?
So, you see, Liu Bang of the Han Dynasty followed the people's will, which allowed him to establish his empire. Cao Wei didn't last long, and the Jin Dynasty also followed suit in abdication. All of these followed the precedents set by their predecessors, adhering to the established path.
"Essence transforms, things relate to the ruler; emperors rise and fall, and not all people share the same surname." This poem explains this principle.
The legacy of my ancestors once unified the entire world. By the end of the Zhengguang era, corrupt officials had taken power, and their rule was disastrous, leaving the nation's fortunes waned and the people displaced. The country fell into disarray, and the land and the people lost control of the Wei Kingdom. King Qixian Wu rose at the right time, like a phoenix rising and as fierce as a dragon; he abolished tyranny, reestablished order, saved the crumbling country, eliminated rebellions, greatly benefited the Wei family, and extended his kindness to the people. Upon ascending the throne, King Wenxiang continued the achievements of his predecessors, pacified traitors at home, repelled invading enemies, and brought peace to the world. Blessed by the royal spirits, the nation's fortunes flourished for generations, and King Wenxiang excelled in both civil and military affairs, possessing keen insight into the smallest details. Since he raised his army, countless praises have been sung; he held the political power of the country, and his achievements were truly remarkable. Upon inheriting the throne, King Dacheng revitalized the nation, consolidated the family's power, and the nation grew increasingly prosperous, while its hegemony strengthened. His reputation spread far and wide, even in distant regions, and neighboring countries paid tribute. Armed with abundant resources and exceptional talent, wherever he went, no one dared to defy him.
The merits and wisdom he has accumulated will be passed down for millennia, and his hidden virtues are now revealed. In order to express gratitude to our ancestors and to embark on the great cause of revitalizing the nation, heaven is watching over us. Though I may be ignorant and incapable, I cannot afford to hesitate. In my quiet reflection, I feel a deep sense of shame. Moreover, times change, and even Yao and Shun could not hold power forever. In the face of changing times, even Great Yu faced opposition. How can someone as limited as I am hesitate? Therefore, relying on heaven's assistance and heeding the people's will, I respectfully abdicate the throne in favor of the king. May heaven bless us; our fate is sealed! Ah! I hope the king will embrace this historic mission, govern the country earnestly, and uphold the emperor's benevolence. If this can endure for millennia, how magnificent that would be! I also penned a decree for the emperor and sent Prince Shao of Pengcheng, who also serves as the Grand Preceptor, and Minister Jing Xianjun, who is also the Minister of Works, to present the emperor's seal and ribbon, in accordance with the ancient customs of the Tang, Yu, Han, and Wei dynasties. Grand Secretary Gao Longzhi led the officials in counsel. On the day of Wuyou (a specific date in the lunar calendar), I ascended the throne at the Southern Altar, offering incense to heaven and proclaiming:
Your Majesty, I, Yang Jian, boldly report to you and the Empress with the most solemn ceremony: the rise and fall of a nation, the change of dynasties, the justice of heaven's will, all follow the mandate of heaven. From ancient times, from Tang, Yao, Shun to the Wei and Jin periods, which dynasty has not ultimately fallen due to abdication? The Wei dynasty has experienced too many disasters, and now, almost thirty years later, after Emperor Xiaochang, the court is fragmented. The realm is in chaos, the people are displaced, and the people are suffering. Thanks to my efforts to save the sinking Wei kingdom, establishing three reigns, rebuilding the imperial ancestral temple twice, eliminating all rebels and rooting out corruption. My benevolence has reached the people, and my achievements are recognized far and wide. Duke Wenxiang (Yang Zhong) inherited the military exploits of his ancestors, established a solid foundation, his achievements spread far and wide, and even the border tribes came to pay tribute; enemies in the west bowed down, and Qingqiu and Danxue came to pay respects. I have saved the collapsing Wei kingdom, and I have made great contributions to the Wei family!
The Wei emperor decided the fate of the imperial family through divination; heaven has turned away from the virtues of the Wei family, and heaven believes that I am the true heir of destiny, so the throne was abdicated to me. Now the world is united, all within the four seas are my subjects. Governing the world requires a monarch to lead; this is both destined by heaven and the shared hope of humanity and the divine. The court ministers and the people all believe that the throne cannot be left vacant, the Wei dynasty is already in decline, and I should succeed to the throne. Therefore, under the support of the courtiers, I accepted the ceremony of abdication. Though I may be unremarkable, I carry the heavy responsibility of millions. Although I hold imperial power, I never dare to slack off, always reflecting on myself. I chose an auspicious day to ascend the altar and offer sacrifices to the heavens and deities, in answer to the people's hopes, with the hope of ensuring peace in the realm, prosperity for the nation, and blessings for future generations.
Today, a red bird was captured in the capital and offered in sacrifice at the southern outskirts. After the matter was completed, the emperor returned to the palace and arrived at the Taiji Hall. The emperor proclaimed, "One can persuade without words, uphold rituals and laws without punishment, and gain trust without speech. Spring comes before autumn. From this, it can be seen that the benevolent teachings align between heaven and humanity, and the principles of governance through tolerance and magnanimity have remained unchanged throughout history. I have modest abilities, and my achievements are minor. In the past, when our ancestors supported King Wu during the decline of the Wei Kingdom and the loss of the Nine Tripods, he led the vassals to pacify Yan and Zhao, rescuing them from danger and ensuring their survival. King Wenxiang showcased military might outwardly while nurturing virtue inwardly, continuing the legacy of our forebears, expanding the territory, and conquering distant lands. After ruling for more than twenty years across two capital cities, legal matters were resolved fairly, and the people thrived in peace and prosperity, their songs never ceasing. Therefore, the Wei Emperor heeded the mandate of heaven, humbly emulated Yao and Shun, and ultimately relinquished the throne as effortlessly as slipping off a pair of shoes. In truth, I have long felt anxious and troubled, longing to return to Yangcheng, but the ministers have faithfully assisted me, guiding me to the throne and a position of power. It's like wading through deep waters, and I must remain ever vigilant. When departing from Jinyang, an auspicious omen of a nine-tailed fox appeared, and today a red bird appeared as well. I hope all civil and military officials will support me with unwavering loyalty, like limbs supporting the body, continuing the legacy of our forebears, achieving great deeds, staying loyal, and together enjoying this era of peace and prosperity. I hereby declare a general amnesty for the entire nation, effective immediately! Let us change the eighth year of Wuding to the first year of Tianbao! All officials will be promoted, all men will be ennobled, and rewards will be granted to widows, widowers, orphans, the ill, the loyal, and virtuous women based on their situations."
Next, the emperor continued, "I am acutely aware of my shallow virtues and my achievements that hardly merit mention. However, our ancestors, King Xianwu and King Wenxiang, during the decline of the Wei Kingdom, successfully led the vassals to pacify Yan and Zhao, rescuing them from peril; King Wenxiang excelled both in internal governance and military affairs, expanding the territory and ruling for over twenty years, bringing peace and prosperity to the nation. As I inherit their legacy, I feel a tremendous responsibility, as if treading on thin ice. The auspicious signs of the Red Sparrow offering are a sign of good fortune, which greatly comforts my heart. In this prosperous era, I hereby decree a general amnesty to show grace and joy to the people!" "The auspicious signs of the Nine-tailed Fox, the Outer Altar to Heaven, and the blessings offered by the Red Sparrow," these omens herald an even more prosperous future for the nation. I hope all of you will remember this grace and continue to strive for the prosperity of our nation. In a certain year (Year of Jiwei), the emperor issued a decree, bestowing the title of King of Zhongshan upon the Wei Emperor, granting him a fiefdom of ten thousand households. When the Wei Emperor submitted his memorial, he did not refer to himself as a vassal, and in his reply to the decree, he did not use a subject's tone. When he traveled, he displayed imperial flags and retained the era name of the Wei Kingdom, riding in a chariot of five times, with great pomp and circumstance. His sons were also appointed as county dukes, each with a fief of one thousand households. The emperor also rewarded him with ten thousand pieces of silk, ten million coins, twenty thousand stones of grain, two hundred servants, a water mill, a hundred acres of land, and a garden. The emperor also posthumously honored his grandfather as Emperor Wenmu, his grandmother as Empress Wenmu, his father as Emperor Xianwu, and his brother as Emperor Wenxiang. These ancestral titles prompted the ministers to convene and report their discussions back to him.
After a few days (Year Xinyou), the emperor appointed the Wei King's mother as the Empress Dowager. After a few more days (Year Yichou), the emperor issued a decree to reorganize the titles and rewards of the Wei dynasty. However, those righteous men who surrendered in Xindu, those who worked for the court, those who surrendered from the west, and those who submitted from the south after the sixth year of Wuding were not subject to demotion. After a few more days (Year Xinwei), the emperor sent envoys to various places to investigate the customs and understand the hardships of the people, while strictly restraining local officials, requiring them to be honest and just, to promote the good and eliminate the bad, and to maintain social stability. If any discrepancies in the legal system or inadequate enforcement of orders are found, detailed reports on the advantages and disadvantages should be written and sent to the court. Finally (Year Jiaxu), the emperor transferred the ancestral tablets of the Wei emperors to the ancestral temple. In early June, envoys from Korea came to pay tribute. After a few days, the emperor ordered, "Recently, the atmosphere has been troubling; the trend of comparison is growing stronger. In both happy and sad events at home, everyone wants to be more luxurious and special than others. The expenses of weddings and funerals, the lavishness of cars, clothes, and food often end up spending an entire year's savings to pursue so-called wealth and nobility. Even servants and maids wear gold and jade, silk and satin. Initially, it may seem novel, but later they compete with each other more and more vigorously, and there is no distinction between high and low, rich and poor. Now we need to create a new situation; we must change these bad habits, return to simplicity, and let the common people live in peace. You must establish specific regulations to ensure everyone can live simply and comfortably."
The emperor issued another decree, granting the Chongsheng Marquis a fief of one hundred households to provide offerings to Confucius. At the same time, he ordered the regular maintenance of the Confucius Temple in Lu County, stressing the utmost reverence. He also ordered people to perform sacrifices at the Five Sacred Mountains and Four Sacred Rivers, including the temples of Emperor Yao, Emperor Shun, Confucius' ancestors, Laozi, and others mentioned in the sacrificial register, ensuring that not a single one is missed and all are properly worshipped.
The emperor further decreed, "The Bohai County and Changle County in Jizhou were the places where the late emperor first established his fief, and also where the righteous uprising began; Taiyuan County in Bingzhou and Qi County in Qingzhou were places where great achievements were made and where royal orders originated. We must remember our roots and not forget where we came from. To express our gratitude, these counties are exempt from land taxes for one year. Qi County and Bohai County are exempt for one year, Changle County for two years, and Taiyuan County for three years."
The emperor then issued an edict to offer sacrifices to several important ministers who served the late emperor: Sun Teng, Wei Jing, Lou Zhao, Gao Ang, Murong Shaozong, Moqi Gan, Duan Rong, Liu Gui, Dou Tai, Liu Feng, Cai Jun, and others. These ministers had assisted the late emperor in establishing the state and had made significant contributions, some tragically passing away, some sacrificing their lives for the country. The emperor decided to send envoys to their graves to pay respects and also to comfort their families, demonstrating care and concern for both the living and the deceased.
Furthermore, the emperor issued another decree to confer titles on royal relatives: Gao Yue as the King of Qinghe, Gao Longzhi as the King of Pingyuan, Gao Guiyan as the King of Pingqin, Gao Sizong as the King of Shangluo, Gao Changbi as the King of Guangwu, Gao Pu as the King of Wuxing, Gao Ziyuan as the King of Pingchang, Gao Xianguo as the King of Xiangle, Gao Rui as the King of Zhaojun, and Gao Xiaoxu as the King of Xiucheng.
Then, the emperor granted titles to another group of loyal officials: She Digang, King of Zhangwu, Holu Jin, King of Xianyang, He Baren, King of Anding, Han Gui, King of Ande, Ke Zhuhun Daoyuan, King of Fufeng, Peng Yue, King of Chenliu, and Pan Xiangle, King of Hedong. On the day of Guiwei, the emperor issued an edict to enfeoff several of his younger brothers as kings: Jun, the governor of Qingzhou, as King of Yong'an, Yan, the Left Chancellor, as King of Pingyang, Yong, the governor of Dingzhou, as King of Pengcheng, Yan, the Yitong Sansi, as King of Changshan, Huan, the governor of Jizhou, as King of Shangdang, Huang, the Yitong Sansi, as King of Xiangcheng, Zhan, the Yitong Sansi, as King of Changguang, Jie as King of Rencheng, Shi as King of Gaoyang, Ji as King of Boling, Ning as King of Xinping, Run as King of Fengyi, and Qia as King of Hanyang. This was truly a grand enfeoffment ceremony!
In the year of Dinghai (577 AD), the emperor ordered the appointment of Prince Yin as the Crown Prince and enfeoffed Li as the Empress. In the year of Gengyin (577 AD), he further ordered the appointment of She Digang as the Grand Chancellor, Peng Yue as the Grand Commandant, Pan Xiangle as the Minister of Works, and Sima Ziru as the Minister of Ceremonies, all important positions in the court! In the year of Xinmao (577 AD), Yue, the Prince of Qinghe who had previously served as the Grand Commandant, was appointed as the Commissioner, General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Governor of Sizhou, with a promotion to a higher office.
In the year of Renchen (577 AD), the emperor decreed: "From now on, all memorials, suggestions, and confidential reports must be submitted by various departments!" In the year of Jihai (577 AD), because the Crown Prince had just moved into the Eastern Palace, the emperor issued a general amnesty throughout the country, pardoning all criminals sentenced to death or exile in the capital region, Bingzhou, and other provinces.
In the seventh month of autumn on the Xinhai day (577 AD), the emperor ordered the posthumous title of Empress to Lady Yuan, the wife of Emperor Wenxiang, and the palace was named Jingde Palace. He then ordered to enfeoff Emperor Wenxiang's sons, Xiaowan as Prince of Hejian, and Xiaoyu as Prince of Henan. On the Yimao day (577 AD), Prince Pingyuan Long was appointed as acting Chancellor, and Prince Pingyang Yan was appointed as Chancellor. The emperor further ordered, "Ancient people wore deer skin clothes and used book bags as tents. Thinking of their noble character, it is truly admirable! In our Wei kingdom's palace, those precious silk fabrics are rarely given away; it’s truly wasteful! Order all these things to be taken out and sent to the inner garden to prepare for a seven-day feast!"
In August, the emperor issued an edict to build schools across the country, recruit outstanding talents, and vigorously promote Confucian scholarship. Students at the National University must be assessed and selected according to the established system, listen carefully to the teacher's teachings, and study the "Book of Rites" diligently. The stone classics carved by Cai Yong that Emperor Wenxiang had brought, totaling fifty-two pieces, should now be moved to the school and properly arranged. The emperor also decreed, "Whoever dares to speak frankly and advise me, not afraid to offend my authority, like Zhu Yun and Zhou Shen, who dare to speak frankly and help me broaden my mind, make me feel at ease, assist me in governing the country, and benefit the people, I will surely reward and promote them." The emperor also said, "Officials from all regions must focus on agricultural production, earnestly encourage the people to cultivate more crops and boost food production to prevent water and drought disasters."
On the day of Gengyin, the emperor issued another decree: "I inherited the throne at a young age and am considering how to promote the achievements of our ancestors and leave a lasting legacy. Although the court historians will document history without omitting major events, I am still worried that some details may not be included or certain matters may go unrecorded. Therefore, from court ministers to common people, even including monks, anyone who has heard or knows about something, as long as it can be written into historical books, should be organized into writing and reported." On the day of Jiawu, the emperor issued another decree: "Although the Linzige system established during the Wei Dynasty has become a common system and is being used by various departments, it is not yet perfect. We should instruct everyone to engage in further discussions to find a more suitable way, concentrate on it, and clarify the details to ensure there are no omissions." On the day of Jiu Yue Guichou, the emperor appointed the Sanqi Changshi, Cheqi General, Ling Dongyi Xiaowei, Duke of Liaodong County, and King of Goguryeo as the envoys, Shizhong, Biaoqi General, and Linghu Dongyi Xiaowei, with the original titles remaining unchanged. He then issued a decree appointing Liang Shizhong as the King of Liang. On the day of Gengwu, the emperor went to Jinyang to worship the mausoleum. On the same day, the crown prince took residence in Liangfeng Hall, where he was responsible for overseeing court affairs. In early October, accompanied by a ceremonial guard, he rode in a golden carriage to the Jinyang Palace to pay his respects to the Empress Dowager. Two days later, the emperor ordered the release of prisoners from Bingzhou, Taiyuan County, Jinyang County, and the Xiangguo Mansion, permitting their return home. Immediately after, an envoy from the Ruru Kingdom came to offer tribute as a gesture of goodwill. The emperor then appointed Yuan Shao as the Left Minister and Duan Shao as the Right Minister, both important positions. Shortly after, an envoy from the Tuyuhun Kingdom also came to offer tribute. Afterwards, the emperor decided to abolish the Xiangguo Mansion and establish separate departments for the original cavalry and foreign military affairs, dedicated to managing confidential affairs.
In November, Emperor Wen of Zhou led a large army to Shancheng, with some cavalry crossing the Yellow River and heading straight to Jianzhou. At this time, the Prince of Xiangdong of the Liang Dynasty, Xiao Yi, also sent envoys to pay tribute. The emperor personally inspected his troops east of the city, where they displayed a formidable formation. Emperor Wen of Zhou heard that Gao Yang's army was well-equipped and aggressive, and he remarked, "If Gao Huan hadn't died, he wouldn't be inferior to this!" He was so alarmed that he quickly ordered a retreat. After inspecting, the emperor returned to the palace.
In December, both the Ruru Kingdom and the Kumo Xi Kingdom sent envoys to pay tribute, which was quite a joyous occasion. Finally, the emperor returned to the capital from Jinyang.
In early January of the year 550, the Prince of Xiangdong of the Liang Dynasty, Xiao Yi, sent people to pay tribute. A few days later, the emperor offered sacrifices to the God of War at the Round Mound and the Heavenly Emperor. A few days later, the emperor personally went to the eastern suburbs to plow, symbolizing the significance of agriculture. A few days later, the former Chamberlain for the Yellow Gates, Yuan Shibao, and the Attendant Cavalry Officer, Peng Guiping, plotted a rebellion, were spared execution, and were exiled to the border. The emperor also went to the ancestral temple to offer sacrifices. In the same month, the emperor also enjoyed a boat ride in the eastern part of the city.
In early February, the Grand Commandant Peng Le rebelled and was executed. In the same month, the Ruru Kingdom also sent envoys to pay tribute. In March, the Prince of Xiangcheng passed away. A few days later, the emperor appointed the Prince of Xiangdong of the Liang Dynasty, Xiao Yi, as the Commissioner, with the title of Acting General with the Yellow Battle-axe, and built him a Liangtai, giving him authority over all official matters and the power to issue decrees independently. Governors from various provinces, such as Li Jingsheng of Jiaozhou, Ma Songren of Liangzhou, Xiahou Zhenqia of Yizhou, and Li Han of Xinzhou, all surrendered along with their provincial administrations. Later, Sima Ziru, the Minister of Works, was dismissed for misconduct.
In early April, King Liang Xiao Yi sent people to pay tribute again. In the leap month, the Shu Wei Kingdom also sent people to pay tribute. In May, the Prefect of Hezhou, Hu Si Xian, captured the Liang Dynasty's Liyang Town. Later, Goryeo also sent people to pay tribute. This month, Hou Jing deposed Emperor Jianwen of Liang and installed Xiao Dong as the emperor. In June, the former Minister of Works, Sima Ziru, was reinstated as the Minister of War. In July, the Ruru Kingdom sent people to pay tribute again. Later, the Imperial Secretary's Attendant, Xing Jingyuan, defeated the Long'an Garrison of the Liang Dynasty and captured Li Luowen, who was defending the city. The emperor also renamed the Xianyang Hall to Zhaoyang Hall.
In September, the emperor issued a decree freeing all musicians, garrison soldiers, herdsmen, and laborers from corvée duties, making them free citizens. Later, the emperor went to Zhaozhou and Dingzhou, and then to Jinyang. In October, the emperor began to build the Xuanguang Hall, Jianshi Hall, Jiafu Hall, Renshou Hall, and other palaces. Later, Xiao Yi sent people to pay tribute again. A few days later, the spirit tablet of Emperor Wenxiang was placed in the ancestral temple. In November, Hou Jing deposed the emperor of the Liang Dynasty and proclaimed himself emperor in Jianye, founding the Han Dynasty. In December, the King of Zhongshan died.
On the first few days of January in the year 554 AD, the emperor personally led troops to attack the Kumo Xiongnu in Daijun, achieving a decisive victory! Captured over a hundred thousand livestock and rewarded the soldiers in varying amounts. The Kumo Xiongnu were settled on-site, allowing them to become commoners in Shandong. In February, the Ruru leader, Ana Gui, was defeated by the Turks and committed suicide. His son An Luo Chen, as well as his brother Deng Zhu Si Li Fa and nephew Ku Ti, all surrendered with their people. The remaining Ruru people chose Ana Gui's other son Tie Fa as their new leader. On this day, the Khitan also sent people to pay tribute.
In early March, the Emperor appointed Prince Yue of Qinghe as Commissioner, Grand General of the Southern Dao, and Pan Xiangle as Commissioner, Grand General of the Southeastern Dao. Xin Shu led troops south into battle. On the Guisi day, the Emperor issued an edict, appointing Xiao Yi as King of Liang, making him Emperor of Liang. In early April, Xin Shu sent the Imperial Jade Seal to Guangling. On the Jiashen day, Yang Yin became the Right Supervisor of the Secretariat. On the Bingshen day, the Shiwei Kingdom also sent envoys to pay tribute. In early June, Prince Yue of Qinghe and his forces returned triumphantly. On the Dingwei day, the Emperor returned to the imperial palace. On the Yimao day, the Emperor went to Jinyang again. On the Xinmao day in September, the Emperor journeyed from Bingzhou to Lishi.
In early October, the Emperor arrived at Huangluling and began the reconstruction of the Great Wall, extending it to Shegan Shu, over 400 miles long, with the construction of thirty-six watchtowers. On the Xinsi day in November, Xiao Yi ascended the throne in Jiangling, becoming Emperor, known as Emperor Yuan of Liang, and he also sent envoys to offer tribute. On the Renzi day in December, the Emperor returned to the imperial palace. On the Wuwu day, the Emperor went to Jinyang again.
In the spring of the fourth year AD, on the Bingzi day in January, the Shanhu besieged Lishi City. On the Wuyin day, the Emperor personally led troops into battle, but before they arrived, the Shanhu fled. The Emperor inspected the three watchtowers along the way, conducted a large-scale hunt, and then returned to the imperial palace. Still on the Wuyin day, the Kumoxi sent envoys to offer tribute. On the Jichou day, the court began minting new coins inscribed with "Changping Wuzhu."
In February, the Emperor sent the King of Ruru, Tiebafu, and his son Kutisong back to the north. Not long after, Tiebafu was killed by the Khitan people, and the people of Ruru then made Kutisong the king. However, Kutisong was later killed by the ministers such as Afuti, and eventually, the people of Ruru reinstated Kutisong as king.
On the fourth day of the fourth month in the year of Wu Xu, the Emperor finally returned to the imperial palace. On Wu Wu Day, a loud noise came from the southwest, like thunder. On the fifth day of the fifth month in the year of Geng Wu, the Emperor went hunting in Linlu Mountain. On Wu Zi Day, he returned to the imperial palace. In September, the Khitan invaded the border. On Ren Wu Day, the Emperor inspected Jizhou, Dingzhou, Youzhou, and Anzhou, and then headed north to attack the Khitan. On Ding You Day in October, the Emperor reached Pingzhou, then headed to Changqian from the west. The Emperor commanded Minister Pan Xiangle to lead five thousand elite soldiers to attack Qing Mountain from the east. On Xin Chou Day, they reached Bailang City. On Ren Yin Day, they passed through Changli City. The Emperor also commanded Prince Ande, Wang Han Gui, to lead four thousand elite soldiers to attack from the east and cut off the Khitan's retreat. On Gui Mao Day, they arrived at Yangshi Water, and the Emperor used a swift flanking tactic to surprise the Khitan army. On Jia Chen Day, the Emperor personally climbed mountains and led the soldiers in battle, winning a resounding victory, capturing over a hundred thousand individuals and seizing hundreds of thousands of livestock. Pan Xiangle also defeated another Khitan force in Qing Mountain. The captured individuals were assigned to various counties. During this expedition, the Emperor journeyed over a thousand miles, day and night, braving harsh weather conditions, only eating meat and drinking water, with unwavering spirit and unstoppable momentum. On Ding Wei Day, they arrived in Yingzhou. On Ding Si Day, the Emperor climbed Jieshi Mountain and gazed out at the sea.
On the 11th day of the 11th month of the Jiwei year, the emperor set out from Pingzhou and headed to Jinyang. On the day Renyin of the leap month, the emperor of Liang sent envoys to offer tribute. On the 12th day of the 12th month of the Jiwei year, the Turks attacked Ruru again, prompting the Ruru people to migrate south. On the day Guihai, the emperor set out from Jinyang to the north to attack the Turks and to welcome the people of Ruru. The emperor deposed Kuti, the king of Ruru, and appointed An Luochen, the son of Ana Guo, as king, settling them by the Mayi River and supplying them with food, clothing, and other provisions. The emperor personally pursued the Turks to Shuozhou, where they ultimately surrendered. The emperor accepted their surrender and then returned to the court. Since then, various tribes have come to pay tribute.
In the year 555 AD, in the first month, the emperor led troops to fight against the Shanhu, taking the Lishi Road. At the same time, the Grand Preceptor and Prince Xianyang Hulujin went from Xianzhou, and Prince Changshan Yan went from Jinzhou. The three armies launched a coordinated attack, inflicting heavy losses on the Shanhu, decapitating tens of thousands and capturing over 100,000 livestock, effectively pacifying Shilou. Shilou had been a stronghold since the Wei Dynasty, but following this victory, all the nearby Shanhu tribes were intimidated into surrendering. In the same month, Emperor Wen of Zhou deposed the emperor of Western Wei and appointed Prince Qiao as the new emperor, later known as Emperor Gong.
In March, Anluochen, the leader of the Ruru tribe, rebelled, and the emperor personally led the troops to suppress the rebellion, securing a decisive victory. Anluochen and his son fled. Taibao (Grand Protector) Heba Ren was dismissed from office for violating military discipline. In April, the Ruru tribe invaded Sizhou again. The emperor set out from Jinyang to confront them, and when they reached Huangguadui in Hengzhou, the Ruru cavalry fled. By this time, the main forces had already returned, and the emperor brought just over a thousand cavalry. They encountered another contingent of Ruru tribesmen numbering in the tens of thousands and were surrounded. The emperor remained calm, analyzed the situation, commanded his forces, and defeated the enemy. The emperor led the army to break out of the encirclement. The enemy fled, and the emperor ordered pursuit, resulting in a field strewn with enemy corpses for twenty miles and the capture of Anluochen's wife and children, along with over thirty thousand prisoners.
In May, countries like Didougan and Khitan sent envoys to pay tribute. In the same month, the emperor once again went north to confront the Ruru tribe, achieving a complete victory. In June, the Ruru tribe prepared to migrate eastward with their people before invading the south. The emperor set an ambush with light cavalry at Jinshan, ready to attack, which caused the Ruru tribe to flee in fear. In July, the Sushen also sent envoys to pay tribute. The emperor also dealt with some offenders. The emperor returned triumphantly from the northern campaign. In August, the Turks also sent envoys to pay tribute. The emperor appointed Yue, the Governor of Sizhou and Prince of Qinghe, as Taibao; Wei Can, as Sifu; Houmochen Xiang, as Sikong; Yan, as Shangshuling; Huan, as Shangshuling. Yuan Xu was executed for committing a crime. The emperor went to Jinyang. Gao Longzhi, the Governor of Pingyuan, died. This month, the emperor ordered Wang Yan, Wang Huan, Wang Yue, and Duan Shao to lead troops to construct Faye City, Xincheng, Yancheng, and Henan City southwest of Luoyang.
In September, the emperor personally inspected the construction site in order to intimidate the Zhou dynasty, but since the Zhou army did not come out, the emperor returned to Jinyang. In October, the Western Wei dynasty attacked Jiangling, where Emperor Liang Yuan was located. The emperor ordered Prince Yue of Qinghe, Prince Pan Xiangle of Hedong, Prince Duan Shao of Pingyuan, and others to lead their troops in a rescue mission, but before they could reach Jiangling, it had already fallen, and Emperor Liang Yuan was killed by the Western Wei general Yu Jin. General Wang Sengbian of the Liang dynasty in Jiankang proclaimed Prince Xiao Fangzhi of Jin'an as Grand Preceptor, Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, to manage state affairs on behalf of the emperor and appoint officials. In December, the emperor went on a northern expedition to Dazuoling, inspected the terrain there, and prepared to build the Great Wall.
In January 556 AD, Prince Yue of Qinghe led a sizable army across the Yangtze River and seized Xiashou. At the same time, the court sent Lu Fa, the Inspector of Yizhou from the Liang dynasty, back to his homeland. The emperor also appointed Xiao Ming, the Marquis of Zhenyang and a cavalier attendant of the Liang dynasty, as the new emperor of the Liang dynasty, and sent the Minister of the Left, Prince of Shangdang, Wang Huan, to lead the army to escort him. In February, Lu Fa was appointed as the Plenipotentiary and Commander of Military Affairs for ten provinces: Jing, Yong, Jiang, Ba, Liang, Yi, Xiang, Wan, Jiao, and Guang, as well as Grand Commandant, Grand Commander, and Grand Preceptor of the Southwest Dao; General of the Northern Defense and Palace Attendant, Governor of Jingzhou Song Chi was appointed as the Plenipotentiary, General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Inspector of Yizhou. In the same month, Prince Wang Huan of Shangdang captured Qiao County. In March, Prince Wang Huan of Shangdang captured Dongguan, killed the Liang general Pei Zhiheng, and captured and executed thousands of soldiers. In this month, the emperor returned from Jinyang. The emperor appointed Xiaoheng, the son of Emperor Shizong, as Prince of Guangning, and Yanzong as Prince of Ande. In the same month, the emperor personally oversaw legal cases in the Zhaoyang Hall. In April, the emperor went to Jinyang again. General Yitong Xiao Gui captured the Liang dynasty's Jinxicheng and renamed it Jiangzhou. The Turks dispatched envoys to offer tribute. Li Shanhua, a rebel of the Liang dynasty, proclaimed himself emperor and besieged Lushan City.
In May, Li Zhongxian, the commander stationed in Lushan, killed Li Shanhua. The emperor returned from Jinyang. Xiao Ming arrived in Jianye. Ruru also dispatched envoys to pay tribute. In June, the emperor issued a decree saying, "The state of Liang has suffered calamity, with rulers and subjects scattered, resembling a desolate land in the south, covered with thorns. The fate of the dynasty rests with us. We have enthroned a new monarch, delivered them from peril, and escorted the Emperor of Liang to Jinling. The rites of tribute have been duly performed, and the principles of enfeoffing vassal lords have been established. The migratory birds of the south long for their native branches. The people of the Liang dynasty should return to their homeland, and we will treat them with respect and send them back." Later that month, the emperor returned to Jinyang. The emperor personally led a campaign against Ruru. The troops convened at Qilian Lake. The emperor crossed the border and reached the She Di Valley, where there was a lack of water sources for over a hundred miles. The army faced severe water shortages when, unexpectedly, rain began to fall. The Emperor of Liang, Xiao Ming, sent his son Zhang, the attendant Yuan Bi, and the attendant Yang Yu to offer tribute.
In July, the emperor camped along the White Road, leaving behind supplies and personally led five thousand light cavalry to pursue Ruru. They chased them to Huaishuo Town. The emperor personally led the charge, defeating Ruru multiple times, chasing them all the way to Woye, capturing over twenty thousand Ruru soldiers along with leaders such as Sili, Aidi, Toutu, Yujulv, and Zhangyan, as well as tens of thousands of cattle and sheep. Ruru's leader, Sili Yujulv Li Jia, led hundreds of people to surrender. The emperor made his way back to Jinyang. In September, the emperor returned from Jinyang. In October, the Liang general Chen Baxian attacked Wang Sengbian, killed him, deposed Xiao Ming, and reestablished Xiao Fangzhi as emperor. The emperor traveled back to Jinyang. In November, Goryeo sent envoys to offer tribute. The Liang Dynasty's Qinzhou governor Xu Sihui, Nanyuzhou governor Ren Yue, and others captured Shitou City and pledged allegiance to the court. Xiao Gui led his army to the Yangtze River, sending Liuda Mo and others to cross the river to guard Shitou City. Southeast Daoxingtai Zhao Yanshen recaptured five cities including Qinqu, with a population of over twenty thousand, and pacified the local people. Prince Yue of Qinghe passed away. This month, Liuda Mo was forced by Chen Baxian to surrender Shitou City. In December, the Khitan sent envoys to offer tribute. This year, one hundred and eighty thousand people were conscripted to build the Great Wall, from Youzhou's Beixiakou to Hengzhou, a total of over nine hundred li. In early January 574 AD, the emperor returned from Jinyang. He hosted an archery competition west of Ye City, inviting the townsfolk to join in the fun.
On a day in February, the emperor ordered the King of Changshan and his entourage to read memorials in the Liángfēng Hall, discuss and analyze the merits and demerits, and the emperor made the final decision himself. On a day in March, the Grand Marshal Xiao Gui led the army across the river. In early April, Yitong, Lou Rui led the troops to fight the Luyang barbarians and won a great victory. On the same day, the emperor ordered the construction of Jinhua Hall. On a day in May, Prince Qia of Hanyang died. This month, the emperor, out of compassion for the people, decided not to eat meat anymore, and thereafter never ate meat again. On a day in June, Xiao Gui and their army fought against the Liang Dynasty army on the west side of Zhongshan, but they encountered heavy rain and lost the battle; Xiao Gui, Li Xiguang, Wang Jingbao, Dongfang Lao, Pei Ying, and several other generals were killed, and over half of the soldiers fled. On the same day, Wang Lin, the Xiangzhou governor of the Liang Dynasty, sent a tame elephant. That year, the Guangsantai Palace was constructed.
On a day in July, the emperor issued a general amnesty. On a day in August, the emperor returned to Jinyang. On a day in September, the Khitan sent envoys to offer tribute. On a day in October, the Khitan also sent envoys to offer tribute. This month, the emperor also conscripted 2,600 widows from Shandong to be wives for the soldiers, one-fifth of whom were already married and were forcibly taken. This month, Emperor Wu of Zhou also died. On a day in November, the emperor decreed:
Kunshan is the center of our country, known as Shenzhou; the sea is like a pond, and our country is also called Chixian. The common people rely on farming for food, and officials are responsible for managing them. The systems of past dynasties have continuously changed; the previous enfeoffment of vassals led to chaos in the world, and later it was divided into twelve states, and after the world was pacified, it was restored to nine states. The methods of governing the country, whether complex or simple, depend on adapting to the current situation. The Shang Dynasty inherited the system of the Xia Dynasty and did not make many changes. You see, the sun, moon, and stars move in a regular pattern; the princes and nobles govern their respective territories, all of which are to conform to the will of heaven and the geographical environment.
During the Qin Dynasty, Qin Shihuang imposed heavy taxation and oppression, abolished the vassal states, and changed them into a system of prefectures and counties, making the entire country his own. During the Han Dynasty, they inherited the system from the Qin Dynasty, and people like Cao Cao and Ma Teng made some adjustments, the specifics of which are countless. The Wei Dynasty, starting from the reign of Emperor Xiaochang, was in turmoil with power moving away from the royal family, causing chaos in governance, resulting in suffering for both officials and commoners. Soldiers clad in bronze armor and bandits from the mountains attacked and plundered everywhere, causing disorder and lawlessness.
So the wealthy families and clans took advantage of the situation to gather support from the locals, pretended to support the court, and set up their own official posts. Some were princesses from the imperial family, who could gain favors and accept bribes simply by speaking in the palace, establishing provinces and counties. To adapt to the situation, the country was sometimes divided and sometimes merged, which was often unavoidable. The number of officials in provinces and counties kept increasing, only seeking rewards and not caring about the well-being of the common people, which harmed the interests of the country and its people for many years, violating the principles of governance and increasing financial burdens unnecessarily. This has been going on for so many years without any change.
Since my reign, I have been governing the country, striving to streamline administrative processes. To stabilize society and restore the simplicity of our traditional customs, any mistakes must be corrected promptly. I have carefully studied history, listened to everyone's opinions seriously, and noted that the kings of the Zhou Dynasty and the emperors of the Han Dynasty had large populations, the most in ancient and modern times. However, the population is now smaller than before, yet there are more officials than before, which is not an effective way to govern and does not set a good example for the common people. Furthermore, the southern part of our country, south of the Five Ridges, in the Yangtze River basin, has expanded its territory all the way to the South China Sea.
But many of the desolate areas previously designated as provinces and counties were mostly fictitious, with a province established for a hundred households and a county for three households, like wooden dogs and mud dragons, existing only in name and serving no practical purpose. We must now streamline our institutions and implement the new system.
Goodness, three provinces were merged all at once, with 153 counties, 589 counties, two towns, and twenty-six garrisons. And that's not all, the governors were required to hold multiple offices, without receiving anything from the court.
In December, the Prime Minister of Western Wei, Yuwen Jue, usurped the throne and proclaimed himself emperor. Earlier, from Xirhe to Qindu, the garrisons had been continuously constructing the Great Wall eastward to the sea. The total length of the Great Wall constructed from east to west was over three thousand li, with a garrison established approximately every ten li. Important areas had states and towns established, totaling twenty-five in all.
In the spring of that year, in March, the weather was unbearably hot, causing many people to die from the heat. On the day of the 19th of April, the emperor ordered a ban on the catching of seafood such as shrimp, crabs, clams, and oysters, allowing only fishing. A few days later, on the day of the 1st of May, the emperor issued another decree, prohibiting the hunting of eagles and hawks, both public and private. Furthermore, the emperor made a series of personnel changes: appointing Hulü Jin as the Prime Minister of the Right, Ke Zhuhun Daoyuan as the Grand Tutor, He Baoren as the Grand Protector, Wang Yan as the Minister of Works concurrently overseeing the affairs of the Secretariat, Wang Zhan as the Prefect of the Secretariat, Yang Yin as the Minister of the Left, and Cui Xian as the Minister of the Right.
During that month, the emperor rode horseback and shot arrows in the eastern part of the capital, ordering all women in the capital to watch. Those who failed to attend would be punished under military law, and it lasted for a whole seven days. On the day of the 25th of May, a commoner named Liu Xiang in Jizhou plotted a rebellion in the capital, resulting in the deaths of him and his accomplices. By the day of the 20th of August, the Kumoxi sent envoys to present tribute. On the day of the 23rd of August, the emperor issued another decree, stating that the offerings for worshipping the heavenly ancestors must be bought from the market, and the sacrificial animals must not be slaughtered arbitrarily but must be overseen by the government to ensure an adequate and exquisite offering. For agricultural and silkworm deity worship, only wine and meat were needed, while other worship activities required fruits, biscuits, wine, and dried meat. In summary, worship activities must be conducted sincerely, as if in the presence of the deities.
From summer to September, there were locust plagues in six prefectures in Hebei, twelve prefectures in Henan, and eight counties in the capital region. By September, the locusts had swarmed into the capital, darkening the sky and producing a sound like a storm. On the day of Jiachen, the emperor ordered that the disaster-stricken areas be exempt from paying taxes this year. In the same month, the powerful minister Yuwen Hu of the Western Wei dynasty killed his own emperor, Emperor Min, and installed Min's brother, Yu, as the new emperor, who is known as Emperor Ming of Western Wei. On the day of Yihai in October, Chen Baxian killed Emperor Fang Zhi of the Chen dynasty and declared himself Emperor Wu of Chen. He also sent envoys to pay tribute and pledge loyalty. In that year, a new wall was constructed inside the Great Wall, stretching from Kulo Ba to Wu Jie Shu, covering over 400 miles.
In the year 577 AD, in early February, the emperor executed a group of criminals. A few days later, the emperor ordered that only burning fields were permitted in one month of midwinter (the twelfth month), and no fires were permitted at other times to avoid harming insects and plants. In March, on a certain day, the emperor returned from Jin Yang. In April, the court declared a general amnesty across the realm. That summer, there was a severe drought. Since rainmaking rituals did not work, the emperor commanded the demolition of Xi Men Bao's shrine and even dug up his tomb! Shandong suffered from a severe locust plague, and the government dispatched personnel to capture and bury the locusts. In the same month, Sima Xiaonan, the Governor of North Yu Province, surrendered his city to the Zhou Dynasty. One day in May, Prince Changguang Zhan was appointed Minister of Personnel, in charge of handling personnel affairs; Prince Pingqin Guiyan became the Minister of the Left. A few days later, the former Minister of the Left, Yang Yin, was promoted to Minister of Personnel. In June, the emperor embarked on a northern tour from Jin Yang. He arrived at Qilian Lake a few days later, then returned to Jin Yang. In July, the court conferred official titles and caps upon 943 elderly individuals in the capital region, each with different ranks. In the same month, the emperor ordered the exemption of taxes in the provinces of Zhao, Yan, Ying, Ding, Nanying, and the two counties of Guangping and Qinghe in Sizhou, which had suffered from locust plagues, floods, and poor harvests due to insufficient rainfall in the spring and summer of the previous year. In August, the emperor returned from Jin Yang, and then quickly went back to Jin Yang. In this month, Shen Tai, the Governor of Jiangzhou in the Chen Dynasty, surrendered to the Northern Zhou with three thousand people. Prior to this, the government conscripted over 300,000 laborers to build three platforms in Ye City, expanding them on old foundations, and constructing palaces and amusement parks. By this month, the three platforms were finally completed, and the emperor renamed the bronze vessels as Golden Phoenix, the golden beasts to Holy Response, and the ice well to Chong Guang, truly a maniac for renaming! One day in November, the emperor returned from Jin Yang, ascended the three platforms, held a grand court meeting at Qianxiang Hall, and had the ministers compose poems. With the completion of the new palace, the emperor ordered a general amnesty, resulting in promotions for all civil and military officials. A few days later, the Governor of Xiangzhou in the Liang Dynasty, Wang Lin, sent people to request the establishment of Xiao Zhuang as the King of Liang, and offered Jiangzhou to the Northern Zhou for Xiao Zhuang to reside there. One day in December, the emperor officially decreed the establishment of Xiao Zhuang as the King of Liang, and allowed him to reside in Jiupai. A few days later, the emperor promoted Zhu Hun as Grand Preceptor, Wei Can as Grand Commandant, Duan Shao as Minister of Works, Prince Yanyan of Changshan as Grand Marshal, and Prince Changguang Zhan as Minister of the Masses. In this month, the construction of Dazhuangyan Temple commenced. That year, the emperor also carried out the execution of Prince Yong'an Jun and Prince Shangdang Huan.
On the tenth day of the first month of a certain year, on Wuxu day, the emperor appointed Mo Chenxiang as Grand General. A few days later, on Jiayin day, the emperor visited Ganlu Temple in Liaoyang. The next day, on Yimao day, the emperor ordered the establishment of Hengzhou at Macheng. On Bingxu day in the second month, the emperor engaged in meditation at Ganlu Temple, focusing solely on handling state affairs. On Wuxu day in the third month, the emperor appointed Gao Dezhen as Right Minister. On Bingshen day, the emperor returned from Liaoyang. That month, Emperor Xiao Zhuang of the Liang Dynasty arrived in Yingzhou and sent envoys to pay tribute. On Dingyou day in the fourth month, the emperor appointed Prince Yong of Pengcheng as Minister of Works, and Prince Shi of Gaoyang as Right Minister. On Yisi day, Prince Yong of Pengcheng was also appointed as Grand Commandant, and Prince Shaolian was appointed as Marquis of Changle County at the same time. On Guiwei day in the fifth month, the emperor ordered the execution of twenty-five families, including Marquis Yuan Shi of Shiping, and nineteen families such as Special Advisor Yuan Shao, and prohibited similar actions. In the sixth month, Emperor Chen Wu died, and his nephew Chen Qian succeeded the throne, becoming the later Emperor Chen Wen. On Wuxu day in the eighth month, the emperor appointed Prince Shaoyi as Marquis of Guangyang, and appointed Prince Xiaowan of Hejian as Left Minister. On Guimao day, the emperor ordered that anyone who falsely claimed to be of the Yuan clan or pretended to be related to the Yuan clan, regardless of the length of time, must revert to their original surnames. On Jisi day in the ninth month, the emperor went to Jinyang. That month, the emperor also sent Li Huaize and Lu Renhui to the Liang Dynasty to meet Emperor Xiao Zhuang.
On the 10th day of the 10th month, the Emperor suddenly passed away at the Deyang Hall in the Jinyang Palace, at just thirty-one years old. The Emperor's will stated: "All funeral arrangements should be kept simple. Although the traditional mourning period is three years, as a matter of etiquette, Emperor Wen of Han had reformed this practice, and it has been followed ever since. Therefore, let it be decreed that the mourning period is limited to thirty-six days. The heir to the throne, officials, and all subjects, both inside and outside the palace, must abide by this will, mourn in accordance with the customs, and conduct themselves according to the rules." On the day of Guimao, the Emperor's funeral procession took place, and his remains were placed in the Xuande Hall. On the 11th day of the 11th month, the Emperor's coffin was transported back to the capital city. On the 12th day of the 12th month, the Emperor's coffin was placed in front of the Taiji Hall. On the 2nd day of the 2nd month in the first year of Qianming, the Emperor was laid to rest at the Wuning Mausoleum, posthumously honored as Emperor Wenxuan, with the posthumous temple name Weizong. During the Wuping era, his posthumous title was changed to Emperor Wenxuan, with the temple name Xianzu.
When this Emperor was young, he possessed remarkable charisma, was deeply thoughtful, and had a sharp intellect. Although he appeared gentle on the surface, he was actually resolute and decisive. He enjoyed handling state affairs, could anticipate outcomes from the outset, and tirelessly worked from morning till night, never growing weary. Upon ascending the throne, he placed great emphasis on political strategies, enforcing laws to restrain his subordinates, with fairness and justice as his top priorities. Even if someone violated the law, whether they were his relatives or old ministers, he would not show favoritism, creating a court where respect and awe prevailed. As for national affairs and military strategies, he made independent decisions, always with a long-term vision and the gravitas of an emperor. At that time, with fragmented factions and unsubdued minority tribes, he repaired weapons, trained soldiers, and stationed a significant number of troops for defense around him. Every time he went into battle, he led from the front, risking his life alongside his troops. Amidst the chaos of battle, he always worried that he was not charging forward fast enough, often finding himself in dangerous situations, yet he consistently emerged victorious.
Once, while touring Dongshan, as the Guanlong region was still in turmoil, in a fit of rage, he smashed a wine glass, immediately summoned Wei Shou, and drafted an edict right there, declaring his intention to march west. That year, Emperor Wen of Zhou passed away, and the people in the west were terrified, wondering how they could cross the Long Mountain. After his western expedition, he repeatedly achieved victories, striking fear across the realm. After six or seven years, he grew arrogant and complacent, indulging in hedonism, acting recklessly and engaging in debauchery. Sometimes, he drummed and sang incessantly, from morning till night, day and night. Occasionally, he was naked, painted his face, let his hair down, donned both barbarian attire and exquisite Chinese garments. He also carried knives, swords, bows, and arrows while wandering through the market, often entering the mansions of nobles and ministers. He rode camels, cows, and donkeys without a saddle, whether in scorching heat or severe cold, often exposing himself to the sun, riding horses naked, and his attendants were appalled, yet he remained indifferent. His relatives, ministers, and attendants mingled freely, with no regard for rank. He also gathered elderly women and distributed them among his officials, inspecting them daily for his own amusement. Most of those he killed were dismembered, some were burned to death, and some were thrown into the river.
He became consumed by wine and lust, growing more and more deranged. In his later years, he often claimed to see ghosts and hear strange voices. The slightest discontent would drive him to kill, exterminating his own kin and leading to brutal persecutions in Yong'an and Shangdang. Gao Longzhi, Gao Dezhen, Du Bi, Wang Yuanjing, Li Qianzhi, and others were all killed on false charges. Once in Jinyang, he impaled Governor Wei Ziyao while playing with a spear. Another time, in the Sangtai Hall, he sawed Governor Mu Song in half. He also summoned Governor Han Zhi from the crowd and executed him without cause. His other acts of brutality were innumerable, drawing the ire of all classes. Though he was harsh on his subordinates and had an exceptional memory, officials were terrified to disobey his orders. The populace was worn thin by his incessant construction projects, and the treasury rapidly drained due to his lavish gifts. The Empress Dowager, princes, and ministers were filled with anxiety and fear, unsure of how to respond. In his later years, he could no longer eat and only drank alcohol, ultimately succumbing to his alcoholism.
It is said that some people commented: Gaozu defeated the various ethnic groups in the north, and his prestige and power continued to his descendants. After moving the capital to Ye City, although the emperor had good abilities, when he gave orders, all political affairs were executed smoothly, all under his own decisions. Emperor Xianzu inherited the ancestral business, and he enjoyed the support of both the court and the people, who all admired him. In Eastern Wei, everyone happily supported him, and soon after, he successfully ascended the throne. Initially, he placed great importance on political affairs, and the social environment was quite positive. However, later on, he became addicted to drink and women; his behavior was licentious, and he became incompetent and cruel, which was a rare occurrence in history. He couldn't stay emperor for long, all due to his vices, and his descendants were cut off as a result, all stemming from his debauchery and cruelty!
Now let's talk about the evaluation of him:
Praise: Heaven safeguards and dictates, subject to fate. Seizing the imperial mandate, he became the emperor. With his power and prestige, he squandered valuable resources. He initially had political skills and heard the sound of virtue. Ignoring wise counsel, he indulged his desires. Practicing cruel tyranny and indulging in debauchery.
