Xie Zhuang, with the courtesy name Xi Yi, was a native of Yangxia in Chen County. His father was Tai Chang Hong Wei. At the age of seven, he could already write articles and had read through the Analects. As he grew up, Xie Zhuang became exceptionally handsome and had a good temperament. Emperor Wu of the Song Dynasty was particularly impressed by him, saying to the Minister of Works Yin Jingren and General Liu Zhan, "A gem from Lantian, could it be anything less?" Initially, he served as a military judge under Wang Jun in Shixing, later rising to positions such as the Prince's Attendant and military advisor to the Prince of Luling. He then transferred to Wang Dan's command as a military advisor and also served as a secretary. He categorized the historical texts of the Zuo Zhuan, arranged them according to the country's borders at that time, and made a one-square-yard model out of wood, depicting mountains, rivers, and land, with each region clearly marked as distinct states and counties when viewed separately, and as a complete map of the country when combined. In the twenty-seventh year of the Yuanjia era, the Northern Wei forces invaded Pengcheng, and Li Xiaobo, an envoy from Suo Lu, was sent to chat with the Chief Military Historian Zhang Chang. Li Xiaobo specifically inquired about Xie Zhuang and Wang Hui, showing that Xie Zhuang's fame had spread far and wide. In the twenty-ninth year of the Yuanjia era, Xie Zhuang was appointed as the Prince's Attendant. During this time, the King of Nanping presented a red parrot as tribute, and the Emperor ordered all ministers to write poems in praise. Yuan Shu, the Prince's Guard Leader, was renowned for his literary talent, and after he finished writing his poem, he showed it to Xie Zhuang. Xie Zhuang also completed his own poem, and after Yuan Shu read it, he exclaimed, "If it weren't for my presence in Jiangdong, you, Xie Zhuang, would have been the best; if it weren't for you, I would have been considered a top figure at the time." Yuan Shu then hid his poem. It is said that the assassin who killed the Emperor was surprisingly promoted to Left Chief Historian! Later, the Emperor personally led a campaign and secretly sent a letter to Zhuang, requesting that he revise it before it was published.
Zhuang sent his most trusted disciple, Ju Qing, to secretly meet with the Emperor. In the memorial, Ju Qing wrote: "That traitorous regicide has doomed himself, tearing off his cap and smashing his court headgear, committing unprecedentedly heinous crimes! The people of the world weep in sorrow, even the ghosts and gods in the underworld condemn him! I received your edict on the twenty-seventh day of the third month; your wise actions are evident, and I am deeply grateful after reading it. May heaven protect the royal family; your wisdom shines anew. Your Highness, with your civil and military achievements renowned far and wide, you have shown your civil virtues in Yuezhou and military prowess in Shanzhou. You are poised to demonstrate your royal might, enforce divine retribution, cleanse the national shame, wash away the disgrace of Huaxia, restore stability to the turbulent situation, and let the suffering people see the light again. I heard that you have dispatched Liu Yuanjing, Sima Wengong, Zong Que, Shen Qingzhi, and others to lead a hundred thousand elite soldiers, who are now approaching the capital. Your Highness personally leads the army, unstoppable on the way. The troops from Jingzhou, Yanling, Minshan, and Hanshui, with warships spanning the horizon, flags covering the sky, the entire nation rallies to your call, and various feudal lords come to join forces. Now, those treacherous villains, still unrepentant, are killing each other; the court is shrouded in chaos, the officials are mute, and people on the road dare not go out. Once your edict is issued, it will be immediately announced in the capital, and the court and the people will rejoice, celebrating in every home, eagerly awaiting your arrival. The late Emperor's legacy shines brightly across the realm; his blessings reach every corner, and no place is left untouched by his grace. Moreover, my family has received imperial favor for generations, more than most. I retired due to illness, narrowly escaping disaster; though I have always wanted to repay the court, I have been lacking opportunities. Now that the army is at the border, and Yongqing City is not far away, I am filled with both joy and sorrow, overwhelmed with excitement."
The source text is currently unavailable or not provided. Therefore, there is no content to translate.
After the founding emperor ascended the throne, he dismissed me from my position as attendant minister. At that time, the northern nomads requested to open mutual trade, and the emperor issued a decree for the ministers to discuss it thoroughly. I said at the time, "I believe those barbarians only care about wealth, not principles. Their request to open mutual trade is likely to be to probe our strengths and weaknesses. If we agree, it will show our weakness, failing to deter the distant barbarians, but instead revealing our vulnerabilities. Instead of this, it is better to observe their movements first, which would demonstrate our strength. Emperor Wen of Han, although he had arranged marriages with them, did not give up attacking the Xiongnu; Emperor Wu of Han, although he made treaties, did not abandon planning against the Xiongnu. Therefore, when the country is strong, it can take the initiative to attack, and when the strength is insufficient, it should withdraw into ourselves. Why should we stoop to trade with these barbarians, promote their crude customs, and set up such useless examples, inviting endless troubles? Mutual trade should be strictly prohibited; those hypocritical treaties should be firmly rejected. I may be foolish and ignorant, lacking in experience; these words may be inappropriate, but I still want to express all my thoughts." At that time, General of Chariots and Cavalry, Prince Dan of Jingling, was about to go to Jingzhou for his appointment. The court summoned the Prime Minister and Governor of Jingzhou, Prince Yixuan of Nan County, to assist, but Yixuan firmly declined to go, while Dan had already set a departure date. I thought, "Since the Prime Minister is reluctant to go, while the General of Chariots and Cavalry has already set a departure date, it seems to be pressuring the Prime Minister, which is not favorable for the situation." The founding emperor then reconfirmed Dan's departure date, but Yixuan still did not go.
The emperor has just ascended to the throne and wants to vigorously promote the spirit of frugality. He issued a decree on frugality, which is recorded in the "Xiaowu Annals." I am concerned that this order might not be carried out, so I offered my advice again, stating, "The decree states that 'officials and nobles are eager to pursue profits, and those who open shops for business must be prohibited.' This truly aligns with the people's wishes. If anyone violates it, they should be punished according to the law; if the laws are abolished out of compassion, it would undermine the authority of the laws. I urge the emperor to give this matter careful consideration and ensure that the decree is not contradicted by the actual implementation. I believe that high-ranking officials should not seek profits at the expense of the common people. I wonder if the emperor agrees with my opinion? Clearing away the weeds that hinder agricultural production and vigorously developing the textile industry should be promoted."
In the first year of the Xiaojian era, I was promoted to Left Guard General. Earlier, the emperor had bestowed upon me a precious sword, which I gave to the Inspector of Yuzhou, Lu Shuang, as a farewell gift. Later, Lu Shuang rebelled, and at a banquet, the emperor asked me about the sword. I replied, "I gave it to Lu Shuang as a farewell gift before, considering it a gift from Your Majesty to me, so I passed it on." The emperor was very pleased and believed that I was telling the truth. At that time, the pathways for selecting talent in the court were quite limited, so I submitted a memorial saying:
I have heard that achievements can illuminate a thousand miles, not merely as valuable as a candlestick; virtues can influence neighboring countries, not just as valuable as a secret jade. The "Book of Songs" records the lessons of destruction, the "Book of Documents" tells of the principles of prosperity, which is why grievances do not accumulate and ultimately reaches respect and humility.
Your Majesty has inherited the legacy of your ancestors and opened a new era, reviewing political affairs in the evening, cultivating the right atmosphere in the morning, widely soliciting various opinions, and examining the sentiments of distant people. This truly signifies a peaceful nation, and the praise has just begun.
I personally believe that the fundamental reason for a country's rise and fall has always been closely tied to the selection and appointment of talent. Thus, the "Chu Ci" considers virtuous individuals to be treasures, and "Yu Shu" regards the selection of virtuous scholars as a very difficult task. The system for talent selection has been lax for a long time, and the regulations for talent promotion have not been effectively enforced. If we want to consolidate the foundation, develop our endeavors, benefit the people, and stabilize society, how can we achieve a 99.9% success rate without changing this situation?
In the past, when Liu Bang, the Emperor Gaozu of Han, raised his troops in Zhongyang, outstanding talents and heroes emerged from Xuzhou and Peixian; and when Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu of Han received his mandate in Baishui, outstanding talents came from Jingzhou and Wancheng. This shows that the emergence of talent is not determined by the quality of the region, but by whether they have encountered a discerning eye and whether they can be reused.
Now that the world is peaceful, all undertakings are waiting for talent to develop, yet talents from across the nation remain overlooked, and individuals from the lower classes find it difficult to realize their ambitions. The crucial task of selecting talent rests with the Ministry of Personnel. One's perspective is limited, making it challenging to uncover all the talent in the world. How can the country avoid missing talents and ensure that the abilities of the people are not overlooked with such limited vision?
In the past, Gongshu Cuo and Luan were both promoted at the same time; Guan Zhong selected talent from thieves; King Wen of Zhao did not appoint individuals based on personal relationships; and Qi Xi recommended talent regardless of personal grudges. They all left examples for future generations through their actions. The selection of talent should involve broad recruitment and open recommendations.
Furthermore, since ancient times, the clear differentiation between rewards and punishments in appointing and recommending talent has been crucial for achieving great accomplishments. For example, Prince Cheng Zi of Wei recommended three virtuous individuals and subsequently became the assistant minister of Wei; Ying Hou recommended two virtuous scholars but lost his position in the state of Qin; Jiu Ji recommended Ji Que and gained land as a result; Zhang Bo recommended Chen Tang but lost his title. These serve as lessons from the past and a mirror for future rulers.
In my opinion, all ministers should be instructed to recommend talents they know to the Ministry of Appointments, and appointments should be made based on their abilities. If the appointed talents are capable, the recommenders should be rewarded; if the appointed talents are incompetent, the recommenders should be held accountable. Those who bear significant responsibility should be dismissed, those with minor responsibilities should be demoted, and the individuals recommended should also face appropriate penalties, with the duration of the punishment determined by the severity of the fault. If a capital offense is committed, the recommender should also be punished.
Speaking of governing the country, the key to effective governance is to be close to the people, and being close to the people depends on local officials. Take Huang Ba, who governed Yingchuan for many years, as an example, and Du Ji, who worked in Hedong for a long time. Some were promoted and ennobled, while others received the Emperor's appreciation and trust. Now, those serving as local officials should follow the six-year term policy unless necessary for official or personal reasons. This way, those who perform well can be promoted, and those who do not perform well can be adjusted in a timely manner, preventing frequent changes in officials that disrupt the lives of the people. Consequently, errors stemming from officials' negligence can be avoided, regrets due to the burying of talents will not be left behind, the system for evaluating officials can be effectively implemented, and the people can live and work in peace, singing songs of abundant harvests. I have been fortunate to gain valuable experience during this favorable time, which is why I have been honored with the Emperor's trust to serve by his side. I humbly offer some suggestions, though I worry about contradicting the established traditions of our ancestors.
After the emperor read my memorial, he agreed to let the relevant departments discuss it, but ultimately it came to nothing. That year, I was appointed as the Minister of Personnel Affairs. My health has always been poor, and I was reluctant to remain in the Ministry of Personnel Affairs, so I wrote a letter to Grand Marshal Wang Yigong of Jiangxia, explaining the situation. In the letter, I said: I am merely an ordinary person, without great ambitions or extraordinary insights, let alone thoughts of transcending the secular world. In fact, it is because of my poor health that I often worry that one day I will suddenly not make it, so I had no interest in an official career before, let alone any ambitions for high office and wealth. In recent years, because of certain circumstances, I have been promoted too quickly, which is quite inappropriate. It will not only be laughed at by others, but also make my friends feel ashamed. Because the emperor had just started reforms before, I didn't feel right about retiring, but now that peace has been restored, I dare to make the request. My thoughts have not had a chance to be expressed, and I have received a new appointment again; I am deeply grateful for this kindness, and I must express my true feelings, not only for myself but also for fear of tarnishing the court's order.
I have been in poor health since I was young; everyone in the world knows. My rib condition is almost congenital, occurring two or three times a month, each time so painful that it feels as if my heart is being torn apart, and breathing is difficult, like suffocating. This pain has tormented me for years; it has become a chronic illness, always wheezing, weak and feeble, feeling like a mere shell of myself. I am clearly so ill, but I have never taken a day off for illness, not because I am better, but because the emperor has shown me great kindness, and I want to repay the emperor's kindness, so I stubbornly complete my work. My eyes also have problems; since May, I can't read or work at night. I can only keep the curtains drawn all day to avoid the wind and sun, and I feel drowsy during the day. Therefore, I cannot visit the princes, nor can I attend the joyful or sorrowful occasions of family and friends; I can only reluctantly show my face when summoned by imperial decree, and I cannot afford any delays.
I haven't seen any guests for over thirty days. I've been struggling to manage various memorials and respond to numerous requests. In fact, all of this is due to the emperor's grace, which compels me to keep going. If my health permits me to do my job, then I should make the most of the emperor's opportunities, serve the court, and never even consider slacking off or quitting. My family has always been poor; we haven't even finished building our house, and my kids often go hungry and don't have warm clothes. But I've gotten used to it and don't think much of it. I don't want to give up my meager salary, but because there are more important matters here that require my attention, I really have no other option. All I'm hoping for is a bit of a break. My position may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but it means a lot to me. I've requested leave from the emperor multiple times, but haven't had any luck getting approval, all because I struggle to express myself and can't convey my suffering to the emperor.
My ancestors only lived for a short time; my great-grandfather lived to be 40, my great-grandfather 32, my grandfather 47, and I am already 35 this year, yet I constantly suffer from illness. How many more years do I have to live to witness a time of peace and prosperity? Thinking of the suffering I have endured over the years truly evokes sympathy. I had previously requested to serve in Suzhou, Hangzhou, and Jiaxing, but the Emperor decreed that "there is no need to reconsider going out." The Emperor's favor is indeed generous, but my fate is so bitter that I have never had the opportunity to relax. Now I dare not bring it up again; I can only hope for a better life in my next incarnation. As long as I can hold on to the remaining years, free from the worries of official duties and focused on my health, I would be content. I now live at the foot of Mount Heng, under constant surveillance, without a peaceful place to call home, fearing that I am of no help to anyone. My abilities are limited, and my health is failing; I have failed to live up to the Emperor's promotion of me, and I feel a deep sense of guilt! Next year, I will definitely request retirement again, until death. However, as a person of low status, it is likely that the Emperor is unaware of my plea. I hope the Emperor can understand my plight and recognize my sincerity, and hopefully have the opportunity to speak in person and receive your help, so that I can be at ease. If I don't receive your favor, what else can I possibly hope for? I earnestly beseech the Emperor for mercy and not to withhold your grace. Three years later, due to my frequent illnesses, I resigned from my position and returned home. In the first year of the Ming Dynasty, I was reinstated as the Minister of Justice, and I submitted a memorial to the court, advocating for reforms in the criminal justice system, saying:
I heard that the wise and prudent application of punishment is a legacy of the systems of the Ji and Zhou dynasties; showing sympathy and compassion, and delivering fair judgments, is a proud inheritance from the laws of the Empress Lu era. It is better to let a guilty person go free than to wrongfully execute an innocent one; this has also been a timeless lesson from the wise rulers of history. Only by following this path can we achieve peace in the world and virtue in society. Emperor Wen of Han lightened unjust punishments and abolished the practice of collective punishment; Emperor Xiaoxuan valued officials who were well-versed in legal principles and established a strict interrogation system. At that time, the laws were strict and the punishments were fair. After Your Majesty ascended the throne and personally tried cases, the people rejoiced, believing that there were no longer any wrongfully accused individuals. However, many people are still being detained in prison, and the songs celebrating this peaceful and prosperous era are far from resonant. I believe that Your Majesty's kind grace has not yet reached all the people; the blessings of mercy have yet to permeate the common people. In recent years, the adverse effects of war have not been completely eliminated; robbery and theft remain widespread, and many cases reported by local officials are fabricated. Some officials, in order to evade responsibility and disregarding the country's safety, hastily conclude cases, and wrongful convictions are all too common. Many individuals have endured harsh punishments, leading to the destruction of families, leaving no one unscathed. Consequently, a single misjudgment can implicate dozens of others.
The women of the state of Qi complained to the heavens, claiming they were wrongfully killed at the Linzi Platform; innocent women were wrongfully killed, and there have been wrongful cases in the East Sea region, all due to divine inspiration, foreshadowing imminent changes. Recently, while reviewing cases, I found eight serious offenders. Upon closer examination of their case files, at first, they seemed to deserve their punishment, but after a thorough investigation, it turned out they were all innocent. I fear that there are many such wrongful cases, which is quite concerning! In the past, after officials detained criminals, the county would send inspectors to conduct checks, and then carry out executions. These inspectors and lower-ranking officials merely have the title but fail to conduct a serious investigation. I believe this system needs reform. From now on, for major cases, after the county completes the trial, the case should be reported to the prefecture, and the criminals should be escorted to the prefecture for the county magistrate to personally verify and confirm, ensuring the truth is uncovered and eliminating risks, before carrying out the execution. If the county magistrate cannot decide, the case should be escalated to the imperial court; if in remote areas, it should be reported to the regional governor; if the regional governor still has doubts, then it should be reported to the central government. We must ensure that the grievances of the deceased are addressed and prevent resentment from the living. Only then can the saying "selling coffins" fade into obscurity, and fair trials can become a lasting legacy. I lack knowledge and depth in my learning, only boldly stating my own humble opinions, which may violate the laws of the country.
The emperor personally oversees state affairs and is always worried about power slipping into the hands of the ministers. He considered the crucial role of the Minister of Personnel, contemplating ways to diminish its power. After two years, the emperor issued a decree saying, "Governing the country is like driving eight horses, with titles being the foremost concern; all nine virtues must be upheld, with government orders taking precedence. The Ministry of Personnel is in charge of the selection and appointment of officials, and the nation's prosperity and decline hinge on this. In recent years, the system for selecting officials in the Ministry of Personnel has encountered issues. Despite wielding significant power, it ultimately attracted criticism. Nowadays, talents from all over the country have accumulated merits and contributions, and everyone's evaluation, good or bad, depends on the appointments made by the Ministry of Personnel. The conduct of officials can only be accurately judged by a wise and virtuous ruler; the selection of talents is even more difficult for the emperor to achieve. Nowadays, the world is declining, and the trend of excessive modesty and self-deprecation is widespread. Relying solely on one person's judgment to address public criticism, what can one possibly achieve? The Minister of Personnel's power can be delineated based on the ranks of the Lang officials, while also eliminating unnecessary departments." The emperor also issued a separate decree to the Grand Preceptor, Prince Yigong of Jiangxia:
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The emperor issued a decree, leading to much debate among the court ministers, who hold differing opinions. I know that sticking to the old ways is the simplest approach, but changing the old system is bound to spark questions. However, historically, the Minister of Personnel and the Recorder have always selected officials together. Relying on just one person's judgment makes it hard to consider everything thoroughly, and having one person solely in charge of selecting officials is also inappropriate. When the decree was issued before, I respectfully proposed that the Recorder be involved in the selection of officials as a model for future generations. Since then, the weighty task of selecting officials now rests solely on Yuan Kai. If the standards for picking officials don’t match reality, and there are few who dare to appeal, and people act against orders, then it becomes very difficult to handle the situation. Even the wise monarchs of the past found this matter difficult to manage; not to mention now that national strength is weakening, the flaws in this system are even clearer. Furthermore, once problems arise in the selection of officials, the whole court, both civil and military, will grumble. People have limited energy; there are times when they feel energized and times when they feel worn out. Within a few days, complaints will be heard everywhere, not to mention the situations of favoritism and negligence in handling affairs! Some people, who keep failing their exams, are stuck in poverty, feeling wronged on both sides, with misunderstandings all around. When you think about it, it’s really a situation that makes you feel for them.
If two positions are set up to jointly handle the selection of officials, these problems would not occur. The selection of officials has always been important, and many who take on this role tend to rise rapidly in status. They harbor their own calculations, and others are also speculating, with little restraint. This is why Fan Ye and Lu Shuang were implicated in a rebellion that led to the destruction of their families. It can be seen that all these problems are caused by overwhelming power and complexity. If we need to reconsider this position, suitable candidates are few. Experienced individuals should be gradually promoted, and in the absence of a clear timetable, suspicions can easily arise. If they fall ill, matters will be delayed. Official positions must not remain vacant, as turnover leads to a good understanding of human affairs. In the absence of demotion or punishment, promotion and ennoblement become difficult. If hindering the promotion of superiors without a place to relocate, the cycle of rise and fall will persist, which reflects the dynamics among courtiers. Suspicion can easily arise between rulers and their subjects, so I believe this position should be re-evaluated. The position of Supervisor of the Right is suitably moderate and timely. If no one holds the position, it remains vacant, which differs from the Nine Ranks system. Now, with only the Direct Selection Department in place, official positions are lower than before. People are prone to speculation, resulting in various interpretations, and my original intent ultimately fails to come across. Only by splitting the position of Langzhong into two can we change this situation. By decentralizing the power of selecting officials, public sentiment will shift, capable individuals will be utilized, and their enthusiasm can be better mobilized. According to common sense, promotion should be gradual. This position is no longer synonymous with high office and wealth, and those who hold this position will not have any complaints about frequently submitting memorials. I've been contemplating this issue since my tenure in Jingzhou and Yangzhou. At that time, there were numerous reforms that both surprised and puzzled me. Many years have passed, and I had initially intended to address this matter by the end of the year, but it was postponed for various reasons. Perhaps some relatives and friends intervened, so I have only recently started to handle it. Because I do not have a complete grasp of the edict's content, I am writing this letter to provide a detailed explanation of the situation.
Then, two officials of the Ministry of Personnel were appointed, and the positions of five War Ministers were abolished. Zhuang and the Minister of Revenue, Gu Jizhi, were assigned new positions. I was promoted to the Right Guard General and was also given an additional official title. At that time, Henan presented dancing horses, and the emperor ordered the ministers to compose poems. The poem I wrote was as follows:
(Here should be inserted the poem written by Zhuang, the original text is transcribed)
As for the emperor, he commands the sun, moon, and stars, rules the entire world, inherits the teachings of ancient wise kings, and follows the rules of ancient sages. Therefore, his benevolence spreads across the world like rain and dew nourishing all life, auspicious signs continue to appear, heralding the emergence of glorious scenes. Look, the moon's glow heralds prosperity, and celestial signs also show signs of auspiciousness. This spectacle sparkles like stars in the night sky, racing like celestial steeds. It sometimes leaves shadows on Lingyuan's outskirts, sometimes unveils its true form from the depths; sometimes it rises from the water, soaring southward; sometimes it departs from Luntai, journeying east; sometimes it flies over Yumen Pass, returning with treasures; sometimes it arrives at the Zhilan courtyard, bearing precious gifts.
When it has gathered enough energy, riding a dragon chariot, shining along the roads of the capital, radiating brilliance in the imperial palace courtyard, soaring over fields and gliding across lush meadows, surpassing purple swallows. The people of the Five Emperors era did not grasp its mysteries, people of ten dynasties did not understand its secrets, people of the East Gate could not describe it, people of the West River could not pass down its stories. It eats its fill of grass, with a gentle demeanor, adorned with fragrant herbs, noble and elegant, its majestic spirit is embodied in grand prose, its galloping posture is shown in the glow of curtains and candles, it embodies images as sharp as clouds, with lightning-fast steps, at times shimmering like cinnabar and white silk, sometimes contrasting like vermilion and mottled colors.
Look at it, the twin jade responds to the legend of Fan Li, the three seals correspond to ancient prophecies, the mysterious essence is abundant, while the Yan Palace lies empty, the yang energy is at its peak, hidden strategies are revealed, sweat splashes like ochre, saliva flows like vermilion. When the music of "Four Summers" has already played, and the music of "Collecting Qi" has been offered, it starts to wander, bowing its head like a dragon, then looking around like a phoenix, greeting the morning dew's ringing bells, welcoming the arrows carrying clouds, depicting the dust pervading the land of Qin, displaying the silk dragging in the land of Wu, culminating in the dances of the Yu court, exploring the surrounding splendor of the abandoned wilderness.
If its solid and steady form has yet to fully manifest, its lofty ambition continues to flourish, it crosses Mount Tai, passes over Jieshi Mountain, leaps over the vast sea, surpasses Mount Gushan, bidding farewell to the sun on the western hillside in the morning, welcoming the north wind back to the capital in the evening, sometimes seeking the Jade Palace, sometimes seeing the Silver Terrace, time slips away in the blink of an eye.
It is said that on that day, the sun shone brightly, the emperor's grace was immense, and the country was experiencing a golden age, towering like Mount Liangshan and Mount Daishan, and this grand ceremony would also be recorded in history. The auspicious signs in Haoshang and the signs in the river indicate the arrival of a golden age, which is also confirmed by the calendar of the Huichang era. This fulfilled the auspicious signs associated with ancient emperors' hunting tours and is in line with the established rituals of sacrifices by emperors of all generations. The emperor was to sacrifice at Mount Tai in the east, in accordance with established rituals.
Therefore, following the trajectory of the Big Dipper, the emperor chose an auspicious day and time, and at sunrise, he ordered the erection of a monument the following year. The procession of carriages and horses, adorned with fluttering colorful flags and filled with an auspicious atmosphere, was solemn and dignified. Deities from all directions were summoned, and celestial maidens from the nine heavens were also invited. The emperor arrived at the outskirts, the procession reached the mountains and forests, and the sacrifice was held in the temple, where offerings were made. The sacrificial site was situated by the mountains and waters, with jade bi and golden tablets prepared for the ceremony, and the grand ceremony began, with all sacrificial rituals meticulously performed. The millions of people were jubilant, and the deities were pleased, with cheers echoing in the valleys, and the purple altar radiating divine light.
Therefore, everyone beat the carriage yoke and danced, dancing in the dust, singing together: "Raise the morning canopy high, bathed in the morning light, the deities descend, shining brilliantly like the Milky Way. The mountains and rivers are vast, the pines and cypresses are lush, the fortune of the royal family is flourishing, and heaven bestows blessings upon the royal family." Then everyone celebrated the achievements of the holy dynasty, praised this grand celebration, which surpassed all of heaven and earth, radiating brighter than the sun and moon, surpassing the wise monarchs of ancient times, with a reputation spreading far and wide. The grand sacrificial ceremony concluded successfully, the emperor completed the ritual, and all of this was truly awe-inspiring, with the people praising it without exception.
The emperor asked Zhuang Chuo to write another "Dance of the Horse" for the music bureau to sing. After five years, he was promoted to be a Court Attendant and concurrently appointed as the General of the Vanguard. At that time, when the emperor went out for a trip and returned at night, he ordered the palace gates to be opened. Zhuang Chuo was in charge of guarding at that time and thought that the messenger might be a fraud, so he did not open the gates immediately, insisting on waiting for the emperor's personal decree before opening them. Later at a banquet, the emperor casually asked him, "Are you trying to emulate Zhi Junzhang?" Zhuang Chuo replied, "I have heard that there are regulations for inspections, rituals have their proper procedures, even the emperor has established rules for hunting; these are all teachings from past dynasties. Your Majesty, you are braving the elements, going out in the morning and returning at night. I am worried that there may be criminals taking advantage of the opportunity. So I insist on waiting for your personal decree before daring to open the gates." After hearing this, the emperor appointed him as the General of the Guard and also appointed him as the Grand Overseer of the province. Later, he was appointed as the Chief Historian of the Expeditionary Forces under Prince Xun of Jin'an, concurrently serving as the Prefect of Guangling, and was also bestowed the title of Champion General. He was later transferred to serve under Wang Yigong as the Chief Steward of the Grand Chancellor of Jiangxia, while keeping his military title. In the sixth year, he was appointed as the Minister of Personnel, concurrently serving as a Doctor of the Imperial Academy, but was dismissed from his position due to his handling of the selection of officials for public transport duties, which is recorded in the "Biography of Yan Shibai."
It is said that the General of the Northern Central Army, Prince Lu'an of Xin'an, was especially favored at that time and wanted to widely recruit talented individuals. So he appointed Wang Rong as his Chief Clerk, promoted him to General of the Pacification Army, while allowing him to continue as Chief Clerk and Prefect of Linhuai. Before he could take office, he was appointed as the Prefect of Wu County. Wang Rong was in poor health and reluctant to leave the capital, but later resumed his previous duties. Later, when the Emperor was enthroned, he was elevated to the rank of Golden Purple Imperial Secretary.
Earlier, the beloved Consort Yin, who was the favorite of Emperor Gaozu, passed away. In the memorial that Wang Rong wrote for her, he used the phrase "praising the Yao family" to indirectly praise Consort Yin by alluding to Zhao Jiayu, the mother of Emperor Zhao. At that time, Emperor Fei was still in the Eastern Palace and held a grudge against Wang Rong. After Emperor Fei ascended to the throne, he sent someone to confront Wang Rong: "When you wrote the memorial for Consort Yin before, did you know I was still the Crown Prince in the Eastern Palace?" He nearly had Wang Rong executed. Some advisors urged Emperor Fei, saying, "Death is something everyone will experience, but suffering is very painful. There’s no need to make him suffer unnecessarily. Wang Rong has been living a life of luxury since childhood. Now, imprison him in the Shangfang jail to experience what ordinary people go through, and then it will not be too late to kill him." Emperor Fei thought this was reasonable, so he imprisoned Wang Rong in the Left Shangfang Prison. Later, after Emperor Xiaowu quelled the rebellion, he released Wang Rong. When Emperor Xiaowu ascended the throne, he appointed Wang Rong as Cavalier In Regular Attendance, Grand Master of Splendor, and bestowed the Golden Seal and Purple Ribbon upon him, allowing him to command the forces of Prince Xunyang. Not long after, he promoted Wang Rong to be the Prefect of the Palace Library, while retaining his positions as Cavalier In Regular Attendance and leader of the Xunyang Wang army. Later, he was also promoted to Golden Purple Grand Master of Splendor and was given twenty trusted followers. His original positions remained unchanged. In the second year of the Taishi era, Wang Rong passed away at the age of forty-six. He was posthumously elevated to Right Grand Master of Splendor, and his position as Cavalier In Regular Attendance was retained. He was posthumously awarded the title of Xianzi. He authored over four hundred works that have been handed down through the ages. His eldest son, Wang Yang, held the position of Prefect of Jinping. His daughter later became the Empress of Emperor Shun and was posthumously awarded the title of Golden Purple Grand Master of Splendor.
Wang Jingwen is from Linyi, Shandong. His name shares the same characters as that of Emperor Song Ming. His grandfather, Wang Mu, served as the Governor of Linhai. His uncle, Wang Zhi, was known for his integrity and high status from a young age. Emperor Song Gaozu held him in high regard and often remarked, "Meeting Wang Zhi reminds one of the ancient wise minister Zhongzu." Wang Zhi was also involved in the plans to confront Liu Yi alongside Liu Muzhi. One day, Liu Muzhi asked Emperor Song Gaozu, "How could you let Wang Zhi in on such a significant matter as war?" Emperor Song Gaozu smiled and said, "With his noble character, how could he listen to such trivial gossip!" This illustrates the level of trust Emperor Song Gaozu had in Wang Zhi. Later, Wang Zhi served as a counselor in the Ministry of War, participated in the campaign to conquer Chang'an, and then stayed there, serving as the Anxi General Sima and Tian Shui Prefect under the Duke of Guiyang, Liu Yizhen. Upon returning to the court, he became the Five Military Secretary of the Song Dynasty and the Prefect of Jinling, eventually rising to the rank of Two Thousand Stones. He was granted the title of a fifth-ranking noble of Jianling County and posthumously elevated to the position of Grand Minister of State. His father, Wang Senglang, was similarly esteemed for his cautious and honest nature. During the Yuanjia period of the Song Dynasty, Wang Senglang became a Palace Attendant, diligent in his court duties and never slacked off. Emperor Taizu admired him and appointed him as the Inspector of Xiangzhou. During the reign of Emperor Shizu of the Song Dynasty, Wang Senglang became the Left Deputy of the Imperial Secretariat. When Emperor Taizong came to power, he appointed Wang Senglang as a Special Advisor and Grand Master of the Left Palace, and wanted to promote him to the position of Three Excellencies of the Imperial Secretariat, but he firmly declined, ultimately accepting the roles of Palace Attendant and Special Advisor. He passed away shortly after, posthumously honored as the Grand Minister of State, with the posthumous title of Yuan Gong.
Wang Jingwen, adopted by Wang Zhi, was recognized by his uncle Wang Qiu when he was young. He was handsome and eloquent, and was well-known alongside Xie Zhuang from Chen County in his youth. Emperor Taizu of the Song Dynasty held him in high regard, even marrying his sister to Emperor Taizong, which resulted in Wang Jingwen sharing a name with Emperor Taizong. Princess Xin'an, the fifth daughter of Song's Emperor Gaozu, who had been married to Wang Jingshen of Taiyuan but later divorced, sought to marry Wang Jingwen. However, Wang Jingwen declined, citing illness, so the marriage did not happen. Wang Jingwen initially served as the registrar to the Crown Prince's Tutor and was later promoted to the Crown Prince's Attendant, inheriting the title of Jianlingzi. He was later appointed as the registrar for the Northern Expedition Army under Jiangxia King Liu Yigong and Shixing King Liu Jun, the literary officer for Prince Wuling, the military officer under Song's Emperor Shizu, the Prefect of Nanguangping, and then promoted to the position of advisory officer while also handling duties in Duanbei Prefecture and Zhenjun Prefecture, and finally appointed as the Prefect of Xuancheng. The usurper who seized the throne became emperor and promoted Jingwen to the position of Yellow Gate Attendant, but before he could assume his post, Emperor Shizu led an army against him. Jingwen quickly sent someone to express his submission, as he couldn't go in person because his father was still in the capital. After the situation calmed down, Jingwen was slightly reprimanded by the emperor, but due to past favors, the emperor appointed him as Chief Minister to Southern Ping Wang Shuo. However, Jingwen declined the position. Later, he was appointed as the Prefect of Dongyang, before returning to the court, serving successively as Chief Censor, Director of the Imperial Secretariat, and also being appointed as Chief of the Yueqi Cavalry, but he declined these appointments. Ultimately, he was promoted to Left Chief Historian of the Minister of Works.
The emperor felt that Jingwen and the Minister of the Household had previously been responsible for giving advice just like the Minister of the Household. He wanted to give them a higher position. At that time, both Jingwen and Kong Ju of Kuaiji were famous ministers of the Southern and Northern Dynasties, so the emperor appointed them at the same time. Shortly after, Jingwen was appointed as Left Chief Clerk. Later, because his sister passed away and he did not attend the funeral, he was dismissed from his post. In the second year of Daming, he became the Secretary Supervisor, the Right Guard Commander of the Crown Prince, and the Minister of the Household. Five years later, he was sent away again and became the Chief Clerk of Prince Sui of Anlu, the General Who Supports the State, and the Intendant of Jiangxia Commandery, in charge of handling affairs in Yingzhou. He was later summoned back to the court, appointed as the Minister of the Household, and held the positions of Commander of the Shooting Command, Right Guard General, and was also appointed as an Imperial Consultant, the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor, while retaining his position as Right Guard General. Later, because he won 1.2 million coins from gambling with Feng Chaqing, he was dismissed from his post and returned to common clothes. Shortly after, he was appointed as the Minister of the Household and the Crown Prince's Grand Tutor, but he had not yet taken office. After the former Emperor ascended the throne again, Jingwen was transferred to the Secretary Supervisor, while retaining his position as Minister of the Household. Due to his father's old age, he requested to resign and was sent away to serve under Prince Yigong of Jiangxia as the Chief Clerk to the Grand Preceptor, the General Who Supports the State, and the Governor of Nanping. In the early years of the Yongguang era, he became the Minister of Personnel. In the first year of Jinghe, he was promoted to Right Vice Chancellor.
After Emperor Taizong ascended the throne, he also appointed him as the General of the Left Army. At that time, martial law was in effect, and Jing Wen entered the imperial palace accompanied by just thirty soldiers. Other generals said, "Dealing with these petty thieves is as easy as picking things up!" However, Jing Wen said, "No matter how small the enemy is, they remain enemies. Like bees and scorpions, they are poisonous. How can we underestimate them? The army must be vigilant before battle, plan carefully, first secure an invulnerable position, and then achieve victory in the end!" Later, he was appointed as the Intendant of Danyang, while retaining his position as Right Supervisor. After his father passed away, he was reinstated as Champion General, Left Supervisor of the Imperial Secretariat, and Intendant of Danyang. He declined the position of Left Supervisor and instead became a Cavalier Regular Attendant, Prefect of the Palace Secretariat, General of the Central Army, while continuing to decline the position of Intendant of Danyang. Finally, he was appointed as Commissioner of the Imperial Envoy, Cavalier Regular Attendant, and Commander of the military affairs of Jiangzhou, Yingzhou, and Xinyu, as well as General Who Maintains Peace in the South and Inspector of Jiangzhou. He declined the role of Cavalier Regular Attendant and finally accepted the appointment after his mourning period had concluded.
Emperor Taizong defeated those tyrants, pacified the various regions of the country, and wanted to find capable ministers to help him accomplish his great undertakings. He issued a decree saying: "Those who have made outstanding contributions to the country should receive generous rewards and titles; those who have made special achievements in the court should also be rewarded. General Jing Wen, the Inspector of Jiangzhou, is refined, open-minded, ambitious, and capable, making him well-suited for important responsibilities. During the Baoli period, he offered brilliant strategies on numerous occasions, helping the court suppress rebellions and achieve significant victories. He should now be promoted to a higher position, ensuring that his accomplishments are remembered for generations. I have been able to stabilize the country and consolidate my rule thanks to the assistance of many wise men. Now it is time to elevate their titles to acknowledge their merits. Xing Zong, the Right Deputy of the Imperial Secretariat and Commander of the Imperial Guards, is knowledgeable and meticulous; Yuen, the Minister of Personnel and Commander of the Left Guard of the Crown Prince, is of noble character and distinguished accomplishments. Both have actively participated in military and political affairs, made significant contributions in critical moments, expanded territories, established cities, and earned remarkable merits. Jing Wen can be appointed as the Marquis of Jiang'an County, with a fief of 800 households; Xing Zong can be appointed as the Earl of Shichang County; Yuen can be appointed as the Earl of Nancheng County, with a fief of 500 households."
Jing Wen steadfastly refused the fief of 800 households, declining repeatedly, and finally accepted only 500 households. Later, he was promoted to General of Zhen Nan and was also assigned a ceremonial guard. The court later intended to relocate Jiangzhou to Nanchang and appoint him as the Prefect of Yuzhang, while his other official titles remained unchanged; however, Jiangzhou was eventually not relocated. After some time, the court called him to serve as the Left Deputy of the Imperial Secretariat, concurrently holding the positions of Minister of Personnel and Inspector of Yangzhou, and was also appointed as the Prince's Advisor, while his original role as Palace Attendant remained unchanged. However, he preferred not to return to court and requested a position as the Inspector of Xiangzhou, but the court declined his request.
There are claims that Xie Jingwen, while serving as an official in Jiangzhou, was not sufficiently upright and self-disciplined. Xie Jingwen wrote a letter to the influential favorite Wang Daolong, saying: "Although my behavior is indeed not perfect, my loyalty is unwavering. I feel ashamed of my mediocrity and swear never to deceive the emperor. I heard that someone lied in order to line their own pockets, falsely claiming to earn a huge fortune, when in fact they did not have this ability at all. Suddenly claiming to possess some kind of unique skill, this is certainly not normal. I earnestly ask you to conduct a thorough investigation. If this person is not telling the truth, he should be publicly punished to rectify the social order. If it is found that he is lying, I hope the emperor will discern the motive behind his deception. My promotion in office has been too rapid, which makes me vulnerable to criticism. Thinking about these things, I feel quite anxious and unsettled, and I really don't know what to do. I hope you can appreciate my predicament. I have never done anything wrong to the court, just as I have never committed any wrongdoing. This is why I am confiding in you, in hopes that you can assist me in conveying this to the emperor."
Xie Jingwen continued to refuse the official positions granted to him by the court. The emperor issued an edict persuading him, saying, "You have already served as the Minister of Personnel; although the position of Grand Secretary of the East Palace has high standards for personnel selection, the rank is actually similar to that of the Minister of the Palace Secretariat. People like Xu Ganmu, Wang Xiuyuan, and Yin Tie have all served as the Governor of Yangzhou without declining. You are honest and talented, highly esteemed; what can't you compare to Wang Xiuyuan? You assist the court in prospering; can't you compare to Xu Ganmu? Your talent is outstanding; can't you compare to Yin Tie? The position of Minister of Personnel should not be held concurrently with that of Prime Minister; this is an ancestral rule. Jingkou is strategically important, close to the capital, so the General of Chariots and Cavalry must be stationed there. Key positions in Shaanxi have always been held by imperial relatives. With the General of Chariots and Cavalry reassigned, Ba Ling should rightfully be your responsibility. Although Ba Ling is located amidst rivers and seems tranquil, it actually controls the Three Rivers, connecting to Jingzhou and Yizhou, serving as a crucial transport hub and a long-standing stronghold. Consequently, Yangzhou will lack a Governor if you decline again; I truly don’t know who else could take this position. This appointment has been carefully considered and thought out, not a casual decision."
Xie Jingwen was eventually appointed as Minister of the Palace Secretariat, retaining his positions as Minister of Personnel and Governor of Yangzhou. Later, he was promoted to the position of Chief of the Palace Secretariat, concurrently serving as the Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince, while still retaining his positions as Minister of Personnel and Governor of Yangzhou. Xie Jingwen firmly declined the position of Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince, so the emperor sent the newly appointed Minister of the Palace Secretariat, Chu Yuan, to counter his arguments with six historical examples. Unable to resist, Xie Jingwen had no choice but to accept the appointment.
The crown prince and the other princes are still young, so the emperor began to contemplate affairs concerning his succession. Some generals like Wu Xi and Shou Jizhi were worried that they would not be able to assist the young prince, so they conspired to kill the emperor. Meanwhile, the powerful relatives of Zhang Jingwen and Zhang Yong, who had extensive battlefield experience, made the emperor suspect that they would be difficult to control in the future. Thus, rumors spread that "A scholar is not to be trusted; a long bow can kill." "A scholar" refers to the king, and "a long bow" refers to Zhang. Zhang Jingwen became even more afraid, so he wrote a letter requesting a transfer to Yangzhou, saying:
I am an ordinary person of mediocre talent, who has only received positions beyond my capabilities due to the emperor's favor. I have been given positions I am unqualified for and ought to be relieved of my duties. Even with my cautious efforts, I cannot avoid disasters and live in constant fear and unease. In mid-June, my nephew's husband Cai Shu sent me a letter asking for help in securing an official position for his son, requesting me to sign a petition, claiming that all petitions from outsiders must be signed by me first. I was filled with dread and felt compelled to submit the petition immediately; however, I thought this might merely be a misunderstanding rather than a grave accusation, so I first tried to gather information, hoping not to hear any more bad rumors. A few days later, I suddenly received a document from Yanzhou stating that Xi Cao Jixun had accused me of being his colleague, someone I did not even know. I consulted Xi Yong and discovered that someone was intentionally slandering me. On the night of the seventeenth, I received a message from Xie Yan, the military commander of Southern Expedition, saying that I had sent someone to steal his servant girl. I sent Li Wu to ask Xie Yan about the situation, and Xie Yan replied that "the person sent had made a mistake." Whether it was a mistake or true, I do not know, but upon hearing these messages, I was overwhelmed by fear and shock.
There are only three things I know, and what I don't know is even more unimaginable. If I were just an ordinary official, how could I have gotten into such trouble? It's all because of my stupidity and incompetence, which I cannot escape. Since I took office as a state official, it has been seven months in the blink of an eye. I have no merit but enjoy a salary; disaster seems imminent. Moreover, my position is esteemed, my responsibilities are significant, yet my abilities are mediocre. How can I possibly feel at ease? I fear the emperor's favor and the possibility of committing a crime. I dare not hold onto my own opinions. I am terrified, overwhelmed with worry, and on the verge of a breakdown. Furthermore, I come from a humble background, my health is poor, I am not competent for the job, and there is no one in the court who can match me. I am easily frightened, filled with shame, and fearful when alone. I humbly beseech the emperor to have mercy and spare my life. A doctor's salary would be sufficient for my living. I have long envied this position, yet I do not dare to ask for it. I hope the emperor can forgive my sincere intentions.
The emperor's decree in response said:
In mid-May, I had just recovered from my illness and was still very weak, unable to work. So I asked you to help me look at those official documents related to the selection of officials, and to give the order to execute them only after they have all been signed. This matter is not a secret, and it's unlikely that there haven't been any rumors circulating. However, the act of passing messages is always prone to distortion, which is an old problem. For instance, take Yin Heng's wife, an ordinary housewife. Whatever she hears in private, once it spreads out, it gets exaggerated, and she even claimed that you and Yin Heng are friends and hoped you would sign, but the selection of officials isn't solely your concern. Although what Yin Heng's wife said is just hearsay and rumors, it's not all that surprising. Moreover, the individuals being recommended were discussed by everyone, right? Were we not wise enough during the Tang Yao era to let subordinates handle government affairs? Those who enjoy playing tricks and deceiving officials and those in power are mostly their students and followers, who assist them by pulling strings. Most of these officials and people in power are unaware of the truth. This situation exists not only in the capital but also in the states and counties, where there are individuals forging official documents that look quite convincing.
Those scholars, assistant ministers, and close servants are worried that someone will impersonate them, smuggle prohibited items, request an end to inspections, force the sale of substandard goods to officials, and subsequently demand payment; or solicit others to request gifts from the provinces, trying to avoid conscription and forced labor, and even petition the court to request to station in the local area. You esteemed officials must not engage in such activities. These issues have persisted for a long time; why are you so surprised? Just perform your duties with a clear conscience. During the Ming Dynasty, Chao Fu, Xu You, and the two Dais were merely armed guards, yet their influence surpassed that of the monarch; Yan Shibei wore white clothes, but he held the position of Minister of Works, exerting his influence in the Ministry of Personnel. With Yuan Can serving as Minister of Works while concurrently overseeing the Ministry of Personnel, many people didn't even know such a person existed. Yuan Can later became Minister of Works, but he continued to lead an unassuming lifestyle. Now that you are in charge of selecting officials, you should continue with your previous responsibilities, handling provincial affairs and subordinates according to the original regulations. Yuan Can as Minister of Works was not much different from when he was Minister of Works. The public's attitude towards Yuan Can remained largely indifferent, showing little change. Shouldn't you, given your high position, be even more cautious and responsible? Although you are now the Governor of Yangzhou, your position as Tutor to the Crown Prince is illustrious, allowing you to be worry-free, which is a significant advantage over Yuan Can. I trust you will graciously accept this honor without feeling burdened.
People in high positions are in danger of isolation at great heights, while those in low positions also have deep worries like ravines. Zhang Liang and the Chanyu both suffered disasters, and even wooden geese can be lost. To avoid disasters, it is better to accept things as they come. Look, even towering trees can be chopped down by an axe; small wild grass can also be trampled and wither. Tall trees on cliffs and small grass in deep valleys face the same fate in life and death. Bi Wan of the Jin state won seven battles but died under his own window; Prime Minister Fei Yi of the Shu state was known for his lightheartedness but met his end at the hands of an assassin. Therefore, being at peace with danger doesn't always invite disaster; seeking only comfort doesn’t guarantee blessings. However, people in high positions often cherish their lives, so they often worry; those in low positions often undervalue themselves, making it easy for them to overlook their own safety. Therefore, those who offer guidance tend to warn the high-ranking, but seldom caution the lowly, because they believe that those in high positions are prone to arrogance. People with prominent status are closely watched in every move they make—when they thrive, others react; when they falter, passersby gossip. As for those in low positions, neither fortune nor misfortune can rattle them, and even life and death can't alter their fate. Countless lives are lost in ditches and on the streets, yet few take notice.
It seems that those in high positions aren't necessarily struggling, and those in low positions aren't always safe. In life, one should be cautious and careful, be thoughtful in how you treat others, and cherish yourself. As for big things like good luck and bad luck, they should be left to fate to decide. What happens to us is up to fate. We are not saints and cannot predict good or bad fortune, so we just have to go with the flow and do our best. Good luck means you’ve got good fortune, while bad luck means you’ve got bad fortune. For example, during the Jinghe era, a commoner from Jin named Jin Ping fled from Shouyang back to the chaotic court, and everyone was fearful for him, but he ended up living through a time of prosperity; Yuan Yi went to Xiangyang to escape disaster, and everyone envied him, saying he was like flying to paradise, but he ended up perishing with Yi Jia. When Luo Zai met the young lord, he told others, "King Goujian of Yue has a long neck and a bird-like mouth; we can stick together through tough times, but we can't share the good times. Fan Li left and preserved his life, while Wen Zhong stayed and encountered misfortune. Now the emperor looks like King Goujian; I've been in the Ministry of Personnel for quite a while, and it will be dangerous if I don't leave." So he requested to be an official in a small county in the south. The officials who stayed in the capital all enjoyed the prosperous times, each receiving titles; while Luo Zai faced the downfall of Yi Jia, his home was raided, and he almost lost his life. You see, what you see and hear, safety and danger are all up to fate; how can anyone predict that?
The emperor was already sick, and all his other brothers had been killed. Only Prince Xiufan of Guiyang, who was less competent and was not suspected, was appointed as the governor of Jiangzhou. The emperor was worried that if he died, the empress would take over and Jingwen would definitely become the prime minister. His family's power was strong, and with his position as the emperor's uncle, he would definitely not be loyal in the future. In the spring of the first year of the Taiyu era, the emperor was very ill and sent medicine to Jingwen, requesting that he take it to end his own life. He also wrote a decree saying, "I have engaged with you for so long to protect your family, so I had to resort to this." Jingwen died at the age of sixty. He was posthumously granted the title of General of Chariots and Cavalry, and as the Supervisor of the Household with equivalent ceremonial status. His positions as a palace attendant, director of the imperial secretariat, and governor remained unchanged. He was posthumously granted the title of Marquis Yi.
Jingwen's eldest son was Xuan, whose courtesy name was Changsu. When he was seven years old, he read the Analects and came across the phrase "Zhou supervised the two dynasties." His maternal grandfather He Shangzhi jokingly said, "Oh my, what a literary talent!" Xuan immediately replied, "When plants grow thickly, the wind will surely blow them down." He was appreciated for his intelligence and cleverness from a young age. As he grew up, he focused on his studies and eventually became the chief secretary. When he was twenty-four years old, he died before his father, Jingwen. He was posthumously granted the title of Respectful Son. His son inherited his title, but after the abdication of the Qi Kingdom, the title was revoked.
Jing Wen's son is called Yun, with the courtesy name Yan Shen. His father, Kai, was a Grand Master of the Palace, but he was of mediocre ability, which made him feel quite constrained by other members of the family. Despite his poor background, he became the magistrate of Guangde County. Just as Emperor Taizong was ascending the throne, rebellions broke out everywhere, and Yun bravely became a general, appointed as the General of Ning Shuo and also served as the Minister of Crown Prince Jian'an Xiu Ren, while still holding the position of magistrate. Jing Wen was quite displeased and told him, "Ah Yi (Yun’s nickname), you’re going to ruin our family!" Once things settled down, Yun was granted the title of Lord of Jiyang County, with a fief of three hundred households. Later, he became a Gentleman of the Palace Library and then a Yellow Gate Gentleman, eventually serving as the Prefect of Jinling and Yixing. He was corrupt in every place he served. While in Yixing, he should have faced punishment, but due to the Empress Dowager's influence, he was merely stripped of his official title.
During the Yuanhui period, the deposed emperor regained his position as Yellow Gate Gentleman and later became the Prefect of Dongyang. Before he could take office, he ran into Prince Xiu Fan of Guiyang leading troops toward the capital, which led to a battle at Zhuque Gate where he was wounded. Once things calmed down, he was appointed as an attendant, then later exiled, becoming the General of Ning Shuo and the Inspector of Xiangzhou. This Wang Yun was frivolous and impractical; at that time, Shen Youzhi was the Inspector of Jingzhou, secretly scheming to rebel, and Wang Yun was particularly close to him.
When King Qi was in power, Wang Yun and Shen Youzhi conspired to rebel together. Coincidentally, his mother passed away at that time, so he went back to the capital to attend his mother's funeral. He stayed in Baling for more than ten days and finalized their plans for rebellion with Shen Youzhi. At that time, the Crown Prince of King Qi was stationed in Yingzhou. Wang Yun went to Yingzhou, hoping that the Crown Prince would come to pay his respects. He planned to rebel and control Xiakou, to coordinate with forces in Jingzhou. However, the Crown Prince saw right through him, pretended to be ill, tightened security, and Wang Yun's plan failed. He had no choice but to leave. Later, Shen Youzhi rebelled, and Wang Yun secretly conspired with Minister Yuan Can and others. The details are recorded in Yuan Can's biography. The plot was exposed, he fled to the battlefield, and was eventually captured and beheaded in Moling.
Wang Jingwen's disciple, Wang Fu, became the magistrate of Haiyan County in the late Ming era. During the Taishi period, the world was in chaos with rebellions everywhere, but Wang Fu did not participate in any rebellion and eventually became a military officer in the Ministry of Personnel.
According to historical records, Wang Jingwen was well-respected and influential when he was young. He didn't achieve his prestigious status through connections. If he had lived during the Taishi period and was not close to the imperial relatives and ministers like Yuan Can, he might have avoided the disaster. Maybe Yu Yuanguai stepped down as Minister of the Imperial Secretariat for the same reason!
