Confucius said, "When it comes to filial piety, there is nothing more important than strict expectations for one's father, and when it comes to those expectations, there is nothing more important than following the way of heaven. Duke Zhou is a prime example." Zilu sighed, "Oh, I'm so poor! I can't even support myself while alive, and I won't have money for burial when I die." Confucius said, "Even eating simple meals is a way to show filial piety." You see, although bells and drums are not the essence of music, music cannot exist without instruments; although sacrificial animals are not the essence of filial piety, providing for one's parents cannot be neglected. Focusing only on instruments and forgetting the essence of music makes it lose its soul; tuning the instruments properly can produce harmonious melodies, and only then can music succeed. Neglecting one's own career for the sake of providing for parents is a burden of filial piety; cultivating oneself can lead to rewards, which is the fundamental way of providing for parents. Therefore, if one can wholeheartedly provide for their parents, then sacrifices like those of Duke Zhou will be honored by the world; if one can provide for their parents with righteousness, then Zilu's humble meals will taste sweeter than the offerings of rich neighbors. Those who worry about not having enough to eat and wear, and work hard to earn a living for their parents, are actually ashamed to accept rewards for filial piety. Only by sincerely fulfilling our filial duties can we naturally be rewarded. This is the true essence of filial piety.
Mao Yi, a frugal man from Lujiang, despite coming from a poor family, was famous for his filial piety. Zhang Feng from Nanyang admired his reputation and went to visit him. As soon as they sat down, an official document arrived, appointing Mao Yi as the county magistrate. Mao Yi accepted the document and went inside, with a joyful expression on his face. Zhang Feng, an ambitious scholar, disdained Mao Yi for his obvious delight at the promotion and left in anger. Later, when Mao Yi's mother passed away, he resigned from his position to mourn at home. He was summoned multiple times to serve as county magistrate, but he always responded with utmost respect. Eventually, when the court recommended him for a position, he ultimately declined the position. Zhang Feng sighed, "Wise people are truly hard to understand! His initial joy was actually for the sake of his family. This must be what they mean by 'valuing family over seeking official titles'!" During the Jianchu period, Emperor Zhang of Han commended Mao Yi, bestowing upon him a thousand bushels of grain. Every August, officials would come to pay their respects to him and give him extra gifts of sheep and wine. Mao Yi ultimately passed away peacefully in his home.
During the reign of Emperor Huan of Han, a scholar named Xue Baomengchang from Runan was particularly studious and diligent. He was renowned for his filial piety when his mother passed away. Later, his father remarried, and his stepmother did not like him, so she cast him out. Xue Baomengchang wept day and night and refused to leave home, even enduring beatings and harsh words. Unable to remain inside, he took up residence outside, going in every morning to clean. His father was still angry and drove him out again. So, he lived at the village entrance, persisting throughout the day and night. Over a year later, his parents, feeling ashamed, took him back home. He observed mourning for six years, grieving deeply. After the mourning period, his disciples requested to divide the family property and live separately. Xue Baomengchang was unable to dissuade them, so he divided the property equally. When dividing the servants, he chose the elderly ones, saying, "These old servants have worked with me for a long time; I can't abandon them." When dividing the land and houses, he chose the neglected ones, saying, "I personally tended to these in my youth; I can't bear to part with them." When dividing the utensils, he chose the worn-out ones, saying, "These are what I usually wear and use; I'm used to them." His disciples several times took all his property, but Xue Baomengchang always replenished their shares. During the Jianguang period, the court summoned him to serve as an official, and he was appointed as an attendant. Xue Baomengchang was very gentle and humble, pretending to be ill to avoid court attendance, and requested to resign and return home. The emperor issued an edict allowing him to return home and granted him the same honors as Mao Yi. He lived to over eighty years old and passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Individuals like Xue Baomengchang and another unnamed person who act with sincerity and genuine intent can move others, ultimately gaining fame, official positions, and honor, which truly exemplifies filial piety. The righteous deeds of people like Jiang Ge, Liu Ban, and others share the same aspirations. I have documented their deeds in an article for posterity.
Liu Ping, whose courtesy name was Gongzi, was from Pengcheng in the Chu region. His original name was Kuang, but he was renamed Ping by Emperor Xianzong's decree. During the reign of Wang Mang, he was a minor official in the local government, serving as the magistrate of Ziqiu County. He achieved notable success in governance and was highly regarded for his ability to educate the people. Whenever a major theft occurred in any county, Liu Ping was sent to suppress it, and wherever he went, peace was restored. Therefore, the people throughout the region praised his skills.
During the reign of the Xin Dynasty, chaos swept across the land, and Ping's younger brother Zhong was killed by bandits. Later, when the bandits attacked again, Ping quickly took his mother and fled. Zhong's one-year-old daughter was carried by Ping, while he had to leave his own son behind. His mother wanted to go back and bring his son with them, but Ping was resolute in his disagreement, saying, "I can't protect both children at once. The descendants of my brother must not be cut off!" With that, he turned away without a second glance, taking his mother to hide in the swamps.
In the morning, while Ping was out searching for food, he encountered the starving bandits who were about to kill him for food. Ping quickly begged for mercy, saying, "I was out this morning to gather wild vegetables for my elderly mother. Her life depends on me. Please let me go back first to feed my mother, and then I will come back to face my death." He cried as he spoke. Moved by his sincerity, the bandits decided to let him go. After returning home, Ping fed his mother first and then told her, "I promised the bandits I would return. I must keep my word." With that, he went back to the bandits. The bandits were surprised and said to each other, "We often hear tales of loyal and righteous people, and today we finally met one! You can go; we cannot bear to kill you." And so, Ping was able to save his life.
In the Jianwu era, General Pang Meng of Pingdi rebelled in Pengcheng and defeated the county governor Sun Meng. At that time, Ping was a minor official in the county. After being struck by seven blades, he collapsed in pain and despair, shouting, "I would gladly give my life for the governor!" The rebels halted their attack, saying, "This man is righteous; we cannot kill him!" So they withdrew. Sun Meng was gravely injured and fainted; he later woke up feeling extremely thirsty. Ping offered Sun his own blood to drink. A few days later, Sun still died. Ping bandaged his own wounds, then supported Sun's coffin and escorted it to his hometown.
Later, Ping was recognized for his filial piety and appointed as the magistrate of Jiyin County. Governor Liu Yu held him in high regard, assigning him numerous responsibilities in the county and recommending him to the court. When Ping's father passed away, he resigned from his position and returned home to observe the mourning period. After completing the mourning period, he was appointed as the magistrate of Quanjiao County. He governed with integrity, greatly benefiting the people. The people were grateful, willingly paying higher taxes and reducing their service obligations. When the regional inspector and the governor conducted their inspection, there were no prisoners in the jail, and the people lived in peace and contentment. They had no inquiries and simply read the imperial edicts before departing. Later on, Ping resigned due to health issues.
When Xian Zong first took office, the Minister of Personnel, Zhong Liyi, recommended Wang Ping, Wang of Langye, and Wang Fu of Donglai in a memorial, saying, "I personally think that Wang of Langye, Liu Kuang of Chu, and Wang Fu of Donglai are all over seventy years old, with gentle and unassuming natures. The places where they live have been influenced by them, and they have cultivated their character. They should serve as officials in the court. I am not good at judging people, but I just want to follow the righteous act of recommending talents." After the memorial was submitted, the Emperor decreed to summon them and even granted them travel expenses. They were all appointed as Councilors and were summoned by the Emperor many times. Ping was later promoted to Shizhong and was appointed as Zong Zheng in the third year of Yongping, recommending scholars such as Cheng Gong and Xun Ren. After eight years in office, due to old age and weakness, he requested retirement in a memorial and passed away at home.
Wang of Langye, styled Ciqing, was appointed by the court to serve as an official in Kuaiji, promoted from Councilor to Governor of Qingzhou, and his reputation spread far and wide. At that time, there was a drought in various places in Qingzhou, and the people were suffering. Wang sympathized with over 500 hungry people he saw on his inspection tour, who were dressed in rags and living off wild vegetables. He used local grain to help them and even made cotton clothes for them without seeking prior approval. After the matter was completed, he brought the matter to the attention of the court. The Emperor, because Wang had acted without prior consultation, reported the matter to the officials and discussed his wrongdoing in detail. At that time, the ministers all believed that Wang had acted on his own and violated the law. Only Zhong Liyi said, "In the past, Hua Yuan and Zi Fan were virtuous ministers of Chu and Song, who quelled the internal turmoil of Chu and Song without reporting to the monarch beforehand, and the 'Spring and Autumn Annals' spoke highly of them. Now Wang, with a heart of benevolence and righteousness, has forgotten his wrongdoing. What he did was a duty he could not ignore. If he is constrained by the law and ignores his true intentions, it would contradict the court's original intention of caring for the people." The Emperor appreciated Zhong Liyi's opinion and pardoned Wang's offense.
Wang Fu, styled Ziyuan, from Donglai, was a native of Ye County. He paid attention to moral cultivation from a young age. While residing in Langye Commandery, the places he lived in were positively influenced by his moral character. The local prime minister, Zhang Zong, sought to appoint him as an official, but he declined. When Zhang Zong attempted to coerce him into accepting, he returned to his hometown, leaning on a crutch. Later, many people invited him to take office, but he consistently declined, citing illness as his reason. The Grand Tutor Deng Yu also summoned him, but he did not go. He was eventually appointed as a court official. When he appeared before the emperor, he was humble and appeared somewhat inarticulate. Nonetheless, he was principled and remained unyielding in the face of injustice, earning immense respect from his peers. During the Yongping era, Liu Fu, the Marquis of Linyi, composed the "Ode to Han Virtue," in which he highly praised Wang Fu as an esteemed statesman.
Zhao Xiao, styled Changping, hailed from Qi County in Pei State. His father Zhao Pu served as General Tianhe during the reign of Wang Mang. Zhao Xiao subsequently became a court official. Whenever he returned home to visit his family, he donned white clothing and carried his own burdens. Once, when returning from Chang'an, he wished to take a rest at a post station. The station master had been informed of Zhao Xiao's impending arrival and had made preparations to welcome him. However, Zhao Xiao chose not to reveal his identity, and when asked when General Tianhe's son would arrive, he simply replied, "He will be here shortly," before departing.
Later on, chaos broke out in the land, reaching the point of cannibalism. Zhao Xiao's younger brother Zhao Li was captured by starving thieves because he was starving. When Zhao Xiao heard about it, he immediately tied himself up and went to confront the thieves, saying, "My brother is thin and weak from hunger; take me instead, for I am strong and well-fed!" The thieves were taken aback, so they released both Zhao Xiao and Zhao Li, saying, "You may go back for now, but bring some rice porridge next time." Zhao Xiao searched everywhere for rice porridge but found none, so he went back to the thieves and pleaded with them to kill and eat him. The thieves were shocked and, in the end, did not harm them. The villagers admired Zhao Xiao's selflessness. The local authorities repeatedly summoned him to serve as an official, but he always declined out of respect for propriety. Some recommended him for the position of Filial and Incorrupt Official, but he did not accept.
During the Yongping era, he was summoned to work at the Grand Commandant's Office. Emperor Ming of Han had already heard about his character and issued a decree appointing him as a Grand Councillor. He was later promoted to Palace Attendant and then further promoted to Commandant of the Changle Guard. He also recommended his brother Zhao Li to be the Deputy Imperial Censor. Zhao Li was also humble and respectful, much like Zhao Xiao. The Emperor greatly admired the excellent moral character of the two brothers and wanted to treat them specially, so he issued a decree for Zhao Li to visit the Commandant of the Changle Guard every ten days, with the palace sending sumptuous meals for their gatherings. Several years later, Zhao Li passed away, and the Emperor had Zhao Xiao and other officials ensure he was buried properly. Over a year later, Zhao Xiao, as Commandant, requested leave to return home and eventually passed away there. Since Zhao Xiao had no sons, he recommended his late brother Zhao Li's two sons for court positions.
At that time, there was a man named Wang Lin in Runan, whose courtesy name was Juwei. He lost his parents when he was in his teens. Later, when chaos broke out in the country and people were fleeing in all directions, only Wang Lin and his brother stayed to guard their parents' graves, weeping uncontrollably. One day, Wang Lin's younger brother Wang Ji encountered the Chimei army when he went out, and the Chimei army intended to kill him for food. Wang Lin immediately bound himself and asked the Chimei army to kill him first before killing his brother. The Chimei army was moved by his actions and let the two brothers go. As a result, Wang Lin became well-known in the village. Later, he was summoned to work at the Situ Mansion, recommended some talented individuals, and then resigned and returned home.
In Langya, there was a man named Wei Tan, who usually led a leisurely life, but he was also once captured by hungry bandits. At that time, there were dozens of people tied up, all waiting for execution. The bandits saw that Wei Tan appeared honest and kind-hearted, so they put him in charge of cooking and only bound him at night. Among the bandits was one named Yichang Gong, who felt particularly sympathetic towards Wei Tan. He secretly cut his bindings and said to him, "You and the others should escape quickly, leave from here!" Wei Tan replied, "I always have some leftovers when cooking for everyone. The others are eating wild vegetables and grass, so I'd rather give my portion to them." Yichang Gong greatly admired his loyalty, explained what was happening to the others, and freed them all. Wei Tan later became a county magistrate during the Yongping period.
In the state of Qi, there was a man named Er Mengzi Ming, and in Liang County, there was a man named Che Chengzi Wei. These two brothers were both captured by the Chimei army, who wanted to kill them for food. Er Meng and Che Cheng kowtowed and begged for mercy, offering to trade their lives with each other. The bandits also took pity on them and let both of them go.
Chunyu Gong, courtesy name Mengsun, was a native of Chunyu in Beihai. He was skilled in explaining the thoughts of "Laozi," leading a simple, unpretentious life, free from the pursuit of fame and fortune. When thieves came to steal his crops and fruits, he would willingly help with the harvesting and picking. Once, when he encountered thieves stealing his crops, Chunyu Gong considered that the thieves would feel ashamed, so he hid in the bushes until they left before coming out. The villagers held him in great esteem.
During the chaos at the end of Wang Mang's reign, with poor harvests and outbreaks of war, Chunyu Gong's brother Chunyu Chong was captured by bandits and sentenced to death. Chunyu Gong offered to die in place of his brother, and as a result, both brothers survived. After Chunyu Chong's death, Chunyu Gong raised his brother's orphaned children and widowed mother, teaching them to read and pursue their studies. If the children did something wrong, he would use a stick to hit himself as a warning, which made the children feel ashamed and motivated them to correct their mistakes.
When the local farmers were too scared to farm during the initial bandit attacks, Chunyu Gong worked diligently alone in the fields. When his neighbors advised him not to waste his efforts due to the chaotic times, he replied, "Even if I don't survive, I won't burden others." He continued farming tirelessly without interruption. Although he was summoned several times by local authorities to serve as an official, he refused each time, opting instead to live in seclusion on Qianzou Mountain in Langya for several decades.
In the year 76 AD, the emperor was in high spirits and appreciated Jiang Ge's character. He issued an edict to commend him, granted him twenty bolts of cloth, and appointed him to the position of Yilang in the court. When the emperor summoned him, he specifically asked him about national affairs, thought highly of him, and promoted him to the position of Shizhong Qiduwei, with generous benefits! The people he recommended were also appointed by the emperor. Jiang Ge approached national affairs from a moral standpoint in discussions with the emperor, and the emperor consistently praised him. Five years later, Jiang Ge fell seriously ill. The emperor sent people to visit him many times, and in the end, he passed away still in office. The emperor issued an edict praising him, rewarded him with one thousand bushels of grain, erected a monument in his hometown to honor him, and appointed his son Jiang Xiao as a Tai Zi Sheren.
Jiang Ge, courtesy name Ziweng, hailed from Linzi in the state of Qi. He lost his father at a young age and depended on his mother for support. During the chaos of the world, with thieves everywhere, Jiang Ge fled alongside his mother, encountering numerous dangers along the way. They often foraged for food along the way to survive. Several times they encountered bandits who wanted to rob them, but Jiang Ge tearfully pleaded with them, saying he had an elderly mother to take care of. His heartfelt pleas touched the bandits, and they couldn't bear to harm him. Some even told him how to avoid the chaos of war, and the mother and son safely navigated through the hardships. Later, when Jiang Ge arrived in Xiapi, he was desperately poor, working barefoot to provide for his mother. He scrimped on everything for his mother's sake, even his own clothes and belongings.
Towards the end of the Jianwu period, Jiang Ge returned to his hometown with his mother. Every year when it was time to pay taxes, the county would register households. Because his mother was old and he didn't want her to work hard, Jiang Ge would go to pay taxes by himself, without using oxen or horses. The people in the village praised him as "Jiang Juxiao." The county magistrate wanted to honor him, but he refused on the grounds of his mother's old age. After his mother passed away, Jiang Ge was grief-stricken and often slept by her grave. After the mourning period was over, he couldn't bear to leave his mother's grave. The county magistrate sent people to persuade him to take up an official position, and he finally agreed to take up a position.
At the beginning of the Yongping period, Jiang Ge was recommended to be an official because of his filial piety, and later he became the Grand Chancellor in the State of Chu. A month later, he reflected on himself and said he was not suitable for the position and wanted to resign. When King Ying of Chu heard about it, he sent people to bring him back, but he refused. The emperor also sent him gifts to try to persuade him to return, but he still refused. Several times, high-ranking officials invited him to take up official positions, but he declined.
When Jiang Ge first started as an official, General Mou Rong recommended him for his virtue and uprightness. Later, he was promoted several times and became the Chief Minister of Works. Emperor Suzong of Tang respected him greatly and promoted him to the rank of General of the Five Offices. Every time he attended court, the emperor had the Tiger Guards assist him, and after he paid his respects, the emperor always regarded him with respect. If Jiang Ge was unwell and couldn't attend court, the palace officials would send him gourmet food and fine wine. The emperor's favor towards him was truly exceptional. Some high-ranking officials in the capital, such as Wei Wei Ma Liao and Shizhong Dou Xian, admired Jiang Ge's character and sent him gifts, but he refused them all. When the emperor heard about this, he admired him even more. Later, Jiang Ge requested to retire in a memorial to the court, and he was appointed as a Counselor, allowed to return home to recuperate. He used his illness as a pretext and never returned to official duties.
During the Yuanhe period, the emperor recalled the noble character of Jiang Ge and issued an edict to the governor of Qizhou, asking, "Jiang Ge, a Grand Counselor, had previously returned home due to illness. How is he now? Filial piety is the most important virtue; it is the foundation of all good deeds. The state has always valued ambitious scholars and has never forgotten Jiang Ge. He was granted 1,000 hu of grain and praised him as 'greatly filial,' and every August local officials were sent to visit him, bringing sheep and wine, allowing him to enjoy his later years. If he were to unfortunately pass away, sacrificial offerings would be made for him in the central shrine." From then on, the title of "greatly filial" spread far and wide. After Jiang Ge's death, the court granted him another 1,000 hu of grain.
Liu Ban, courtesy name Boxing, was the great-grandson of Emperor Xuan of Han. Emperor Xuan of Han enfeoffed his son Liu Xiao as the King of Chu, who became King Xiao of Chu. King Xiao of Chu had a son, Liu Yan; Liu Yan had a son, Liu Yu; and Liu Yu had a son, Liu Ban. From Liu Xiao to Liu Ban, several generations built a reputation for benevolence and righteousness, with noble character passed down through the line. Liu Yu was particularly kind and devoted to his family. He lost his mother at a young age, and his younger half-brother, Liu Ping, was still a child. Liu Yu personally raised him, sleeping and eating together. Even after his brother grew up, Liu Yu never left his side. When his brother Liu Ping fell ill and passed away, Liu Yu wept blood and passed away from overwhelming grief a few months later. After initially inheriting the throne, Liu Yu was deposed and reduced to commoner status during Wang Mang's usurpation and lived in Pengcheng.
Liu Ban lost his parents at a young age and lived only with his mother. After Wang Mang's failure, the world fell into chaos. Liu Ban's mother heard that Emperor Gengshi had ascended to the throne, so she fled to Chang'an with Liu Ban. However, Emperor Gengshi was also defeated, and the mother and son were caught up in the chaos, traveling west to Longxi and eventually ending up in Wuwei. Despite his young age, Liu Ban worked hard to study and practice, persistently reciting the classics. His mother and several uncles felt that it was unnecessary for him to study so hard in such a remote and uncertain place and tried to persuade Liu Ban several times, but he never changed his aspirations.
In the eighth year of the Jianwu era, Wei Xiao was defeated, and the Hexi region was finally opened up. Ban Biao sent his family to Luoyang to study the classics under a teacher. The following year, Emperor Guangwu issued an edict appointing Ban Biao as the Marquis of Ziqiu, instructing him to offer sacrifices to King Xiao and to go to his fiefdom to take office. Later, his fiefdom was transferred under the King of Chu’s authority, and he was renamed as the Marquis of Zhuqiu.
In the nineteenth year, the emperor visited the county of Pei and issued an edict inquiring about the achievements and talents of the local marquises. The Prefect of Pei recommended Ban Biao to the emperor, praising his noble character and upright behavior as a model for the marquises. The emperor was pleased to hear this and bestowed upon Ban Biao a sash, one million coins, and two hundred rolls of silk. The following year, Ban Biao met with the emperor again in Pei, and then they returned to Luoyang together. The emperor rewarded him with food and wealth, granting him the position of Marquis of Shici in Luoyang.
In the first year of the Yongping era, his fief was transferred to the Pei Kingdom, and he was then granted the title of Marquis of Chaoju, before returning to his fief to assume his duties. A few years later, Guan Xun, the Governor of Yangzhou, recommended Ban Biao to the Emperor, noting that during his time in the fief, he conducted himself with integrity and had no complaints, and deserved commendation. Emperor Ming of Han held him in high regard. A decade later, the Emperor summoned Ban Biao to the position of Commandant of the Capital, where he accompanied the Emperor to Nanyang, and upon his return, he was elevated to the rank of Marquis. The following year, he additionally took on the role of Commandant of the Garrison Cavalry. At that time, the positions of the Five Commandants were both prestigious and relatively relaxed, with spacious residences, luxurious carriages, and a full complement of skilled personnel, which were typically held by members of the imperial family. Whenever the Emperor toured the provinces, Ban Biao always accompanied him with his Longshui Hu cavalry.
The emperor once wanted to establish an ever-normal granary, and many court officials saw it as a convenient measure. Ban Biao, however, opposed this idea, stating that "although the granary seems beneficial to the people, it actually harms their interests. Powerful landlords exploit this system for their own gain, and the common people do not benefit from it. Establishing a granary is not convenient." The emperor then stopped the plan to establish the granary. At that time, the court issued an edict prohibiting the people from engaging in dual professions, and because of a cattle epidemic in the counties, they ordered an increase in cultivated area. However, the lower officials, seeking to meet their quotas, inflated the reported area of cultivated land, resulting in hardship for the common people. Ban Biao wrote a memorial saying, "The counties have prohibited the people from pursuing dual professions, and even those who farm cannot fish or hunt. In the counties near the lakes and seas, there are relatively few people engaged in sericulture and mulberry cultivation. The people rely on fishing and hunting to supplement their livelihoods, and they do so during the winter and spring agricultural off-season, which does not interfere with agricultural activities. Fishing and hunting help control pests and can boost food production, which has nothing to do with engaging in dual professions. Furthermore, due to the cattle epidemic and drought and flood disasters in the counties, the cultivated land has decreased, so the directive to expand cultivated land aims to assist the populace. However, officials, seeking to meet their quotas, inflated the reported area of cultivated land, even reporting areas that were not cultivated, as a basis for taxation. It should mandate that the governor and the two thousand stone officials conduct thorough verifications. If there is an overreporting of cultivated land, they should receive the same penalties as those who underreport." The emperor accepted his advice.
After Emperor Suzong ascended to the throne, Liu Ban was appointed as the Minor Minister of Changle. In the second year of Jianchu, he was promoted to Zongzheng. After his wife passed away, the court granted her a dignified burial and a tomb near Xianjie Tomb. During his tenure, Liu Ban frequently submitted memorials regarding court affairs, especially in taking care of the ancestral clan; he demonstrated great benevolence and righteousness, and he was highly regarded by his contemporaries. He passed away at the age of sixty, in the third year of Jianchu. His son, Liu Xian, inherited his title. After Liu Xian's death, his son Liu Chong inherited the title. Liu Xian's elder brother was known as Liu Kai.
Liu Kai, courtesy name Boyu, was expected to inherit the title of his father, Liu Ban, but he chose to pass it on to his younger brother Liu Xian and retreated into seclusion, refusing to accept any reward. After a long time, during the Zhanghe period, the authorities petitioned the court to revoke Liu Kai's title. Emperor Suzong admired his noble character and granted him a special pardon, yet Liu Kai continued to remain in seclusion. After more than ten years, in the tenth year of Yongyuan, the authorities submitted another petition. Jia Kui, the attendant, wrote to the emperor, saying: "Confucius once said, 'If you can govern the country with courtesy, what else can't you do in governing the country?' I believe that Liu Kai, son of the late Duke Liu Ban, has always been filial, amicable, humble, and upright. He gave up his title to his younger brother Liu Xian and lived in seclusion. The relevant department failed to appreciate his altruistic intentions, but instead used conventional rules to constrain him. This may hinder the promotion of a culture of courtesy, tolerance, and harmony in society. In the past, Hou Weixuancheng, as well as the recent Lingyang Hou Ding Hong and Meng Hou Deng Biao, all gave up their titles because of their noble character and integrity, and there have been no reports of being demoted. Instead, they all rose to the rank of San Gong. Now Liu Kai emulates his predecessors, embodying the integrity of Boyi. He deserves the court's forgiveness to honor his ancestors' legacy and to enhance the emperor's reputation for admiring virtues." Emperor He accepted Jia Kui's suggestion and issued a decree saying: "The former Hou Liu Ban's son Liu Kai should have inherited Liu Ban's title, but he said he was following his father's wishes and gave the title to his younger brother Liu Xian, hiding himself for seven years, his steadfast character even more firm. The laws of the state promote virtue and honor good deeds. So let Liu Xian inherit the title. This matter must be handled with care and should not set a precedent for the future." The court summoned Liu Kai and appointed him as a Langzhong, gradually advancing him to the position of Shizhong.
After Liu Kai entered the court, the officials all respected his noble character. He was later promoted to the Infantry Colonel rank. In the thirteenth year of Yongyuan, he was promoted to the position of Minister of Justice but was later dismissed. He was then appointed as a Court Attendant and later promoted to the Changshui Colonel rank. In the first year of Yongchu, he succeeded Zhou Zhang as the Minister of Rites. Liu Kai was upright and unpretentious, respected hermits, and whenever the court sought talented individuals, he always recommended those who lived in seclusion in the mountains. He approached discussions with integrity, and his words were elegant. In the sixth year of Yongchu, he succeeded Zhang Min as the Minister of Works. In the second year of Yuanchu, he succeeded Xia Qin as the Minister of War.
There used to be a rule that high-ranking officials, officials of the 2000-shi rank, and provincial governors could not observe a three-year mourning period, so many people across the country abandoned the mourning rites. In the early years of Yuanchu, Empress Dowager Deng ordered that if officials below the rank of senior officials did not personally observe mourning, they could not be appointed as managers or election officials of cities. At that time, a proposal was made that provincial governors should also abide by this rule. The suggestion was submitted for discussion among senior officials in the court, and most people considered it inappropriate. Only Kai offered a differing viewpoint. He said, "The Empress Dowager's decree for all to observe mourning is mainly to uphold good customs and filial piety. Provincial governors govern a whole province, and officials of the 2000-shi rank command troops over a vast area. Their responsibility is to educate the people, spread good customs, and they should set an example and pay attention to funeral rites. Those who oppose do not grasp the Empress Dowager's intention; saying that provincial governors should not observe mourning is like polluting the water source but hoping for clear water flow, distorting the tree trunk but expecting straight tree shadows, which is utterly unattainable." The Empress Dowager accepted his opinion.
Later, Colonel of the Western Campaign, Ren Shang, was held accountable by the court for corruption and bribery. Ren Shang was once the deputy of General Deng Zhong, who sheltered him. The Grand Commandant Ma Ying and the Minister of State Li He also failed to consult the court first and privately removed Ren Shang from his position and punished him due to their sycophancy towards Deng Zhong. Kai opposed their actions. Later, the Ministry of Personnel investigated the matter, and both the Grand Commandant's Office and the Minister of State's Office were punished. The court praised Kai for his integrity as a result.
Kai served for five years, and in the first year of Yongning, he requested retirement due to illness. The court approved his request and also rewarded him with an additional thirty thousand coins, provided him with a salary equivalent to that of a thousand stone official for his retirement, and the Governor of Henan sent him sheep and wine every August. At that time, Emperor An had just taken the throne, and many in the court praised Kai's character. The Emperor even sent envoys to inquire about his well-being and presented him with numerous gifts. At this time, coincidentally, Ma Ying was dismissed from his position, and the Minister Chen Zhong recommended Kai in a memorial, saying:
I have heard that the position of the Three Excellencies is of great prestige and bears significant responsibilities, as the pillars of the state and the foundation of the court. They must harmonize the forces of Yin and Yang, manage the officials, assess talents, assign duties, and no matter what difficulties they face, they must maintain a clear mind and steady the situation. This is an essential role! The position of Minister of Works is currently vacant, and the candidate has yet to be determined. I have discreetly sought the opinions of the ministers, and there is a general consensus that Zu Jiang of the Ministry of Rites and Xun Qian of the Ministry of Finance are the most suitable candidates. My father previously served as Minister of Works, and both Zu Jiang and Xun Qian worked under him, so I am familiar with their abilities. Zu Jiang is knowledgeable in the classics, though somewhat narrow-minded; Xun Qian is strict and upright, but slightly lacking in knowledge.
After careful consideration, the former Minister Liu Kai was indeed a virtuous and respected minister with both moral integrity and ability! He graciously declined the title, passing on the inheritance to his younger brother, devoted himself to public service, was open-hearted and honest, held important positions multiple times, and his words and actions were in line with etiquette norms. Later, due to illness, he resigned from his official position, retired to his hometown, lived a simple life, had pure thoughts, knew when to act and when to step back, and was deeply respected by officials and beloved by the people. Like the historical figures Kong Guang and Shi Dan, as well as modern figures Deng Biao and Zhang Pu, they all resigned from the position of prime minister and then resumed the role later. Therefore, I believe that a person with outstanding talent and noble character should be chosen to fill this position to meet everyone's expectations.
After the memorial was presented, the emperor issued an edict appointing Liu Kai as the Grand Commandant. In the early years of Emperor An, the magistrate of Qinghe County, Shusun Guang, was found guilty of corruption and bribery, and his descendants were also implicated for two generations. At this time, the Commandant of Juyan, Fan Bin, was also found guilty of corruption, and the emperor asked the Three Excellencies and the Court of Judicial Affairs to discuss how to deal with the situation. Minister Yang Zhen, Minister of Works Chen Bao, and Judge Zhang Hao all suggested handling it according to Shusun Guang's case. Only Liu Kai disagreed, saying, "The principle of the 'Spring and Autumn Annals' is 'good deeds benefit descendants, evil deeds stop at oneself,' which is to encourage people to do good. The 'Book of Documents' also states: 'Punishments from above are lenient, while those from below are severe.' Now, holding descendants accountable for corruption is a disproportionate punishment, which could discourage good deeds. This is not the original intention of the ancient kings in establishing the laws!" The emperor heeded Liu Kai's opinion and said, "The Grand Commandant's opinion is correct."
After serving as the Grand Commandant for three years, Liu Kai requested retirement due to illness. The emperor took a long time to approve his request and allowed him to retire at home with the status and salary of the Intendant of Henan. A year later, Liu Kai passed away at home. The emperor sent envoys to accompany his coffin and bestowed upon him treasures from the Eastern Garden, fifty thousand coins, and one thousand pieces of cloth.
Shaozimao, styled Shusheng, was very polite and rose through the ranks to become a financial officer, eventually becoming the Grand Minister of Works during the reign of Emperor Huan of Han. He petitioned for justice for Li Ying, the Colonel of the Imperial Guard, and others who had been unjustly punished, which displeased the Emperor, leading to his dismissal from office. He was later appointed as a Grand Master of the Palace and passed away in the palace during the Jianning period.
Zhou Pan, styled Jianbo, was from Ancheng, Runan, and was a descendant of the scholar Xie. His grandfather Zhou Ye served as the Prefect of Tianshui during the Jianwu period. Zhou Pan studied in the capital, studying the "Classic of Documents," "Five Elements of Hongfan," and "Zuo's Commentary," and was highly regarded by many scholars for his courtesy and moral integrity. Despite his poor family background, he dedicated himself to caring for his mother while leading a frugal life, often going without enough food. He was recommended for the position and appointed as the Magistrate of Rencheng County during Emperor He's reign, and later served as the Magistrate of Yangxia County and Chonghe County, achieving notable accomplishments in all three roles. After his mother passed away, he returned to his hometown and settled near her grave, educating more than a thousand students.
The authorities summoned him three times to take up an official position because of his good reputation. Zhou Pan remarked to his friends, "In the past, Fang Hui and Zhi Fu focused intently on self-cultivation and did not change their aspirations because of fame and wealth. My mother has passed away; what good are worldly things to me now?" So he never accepted. In the first year of Jianguang, at the age of seventy-three, on New Year's Day, he gathered his students for a gathering and lectured them throughout the day. Then he said to his two sons, "I dreamed today of my teacher, Mr. Dongli, who was teaching me in a dark tomb." After saying this, he let out a deep sigh and asked, "Is it time for me to go?" He instructed, "On the day of my death, use a paulownia coffin to hold my body, wrap it in a second coffin, bury me properly, dress me in clean clothes, and put on a hat. Weave a bamboo scroll that is two feet four inches long, transcribe a passage from the 'Yao Canon,' then place a knife and a pen in front of the coffin to signify that I will never forget the teachings of the sages." On the fifteenth day of that month, he passed away unexpectedly, without any prior illness. His students believed he was aware of his fate.
It is said that Cai Shun, whose courtesy name was Junzhong, was a famous filial son. He lost his father at a young age and always served his mother. Once, when he went up the mountain to chop firewood, guests arrived, and his mother, anxious that he had not returned for a long time, bit her fingers in worry. Cai Shun felt a jolt of alarm, quickly dropped the firewood, and ran back home, kneeling down to ask his mother what was wrong. His mother said, "Urgent guests have come, and I bit my fingers to hurry you back!" His mother lived to be ninety years old and passed away. Before she could be buried, a fire broke out in the village. The flames were closing in on their house, but Cai Shun hugged his mother's coffin, crying out and pleading for divine protection. Miraculously, the fire passed by their house and burned other buildings, leaving Cai Shun's house unharmed. Later, the magistrate Han Chong invited him to serve as a ceremonial official in the East Pavilion. His mother was afraid of thunder during her lifetime, so whenever it thundered after she passed, Cai Shun would run to the grave and cry out, "I'm here!" Upon hearing this, Han Chong would send someone to escort Cai Shun to his mother's grave during thunderstorms. Later, the magistrate Bao Zhong wanted to recommend him as a filial and upright official, but Cai Shun couldn't bring himself to leave his mother's grave. At the age of eighty, Cai Shun passed away peacefully at home.
Zhao Zi, also known as Wenchu, was a Yan native from Dongjun. His father, Zhao Chang, was a Confucian scholar. Zhao Zi lost his father at a young age but was remarkably devoted to filial piety. Several times, the local authorities wanted to recommend him as a filial and upright official, but he declined.
In the first year of Yanxi, Chen Qi, the Grand Minister of Agriculture, valued Zhao Zi's filial piety and moral character and recommended him as a scholar. When Emperor Ling just took office, the Grand Tutor Chen Fan and the Grand General Dou Wu were assassinated by eunuchs, and Zhao Zi resigned, citing illness. The Grand Commandant Yang Ci held him in high regard and allowed him to wear formal clothes when he visited the mansion, inviting him to lecture and discuss matters. Later, Zhao Zi quickly rose in rank and became the governor of Dunhuang. Due to illness, he resigned and returned home, farming and living a simple life with his family.
One night, a group of bandits came to rob us. Zhao Zi didn't want to frighten his mother, so he ran to the door to greet the bandits, inviting them in for a meal. He then said, "My mother is over eighty years old, still sick and in need of care. We are poor and have little to eat every day. Could you take less food and clothing?" He didn't bring up any valuables in the house. The bandits felt ashamed and knelt down, saying, "We have done wrong to bully a good person!" After saying this, they ran off. Zhao Zi ran after them to offer them something, but he couldn't catch up. After this incident, Zhao Zi's reputation grew even greater. The court summoned him for an official position, but he declined because of his illness. The court even issued a decree scolding him, and officials were sent to persuade him several times, back and forth, before he finally accepted the appointment. Zhao Zi served as the East Sea magistrate for the second time. When passing through Xingyang, the Xingyang magistrate Cao Hao heard that Zhao Zi was a famous filial scholar and personally went to meet him on the road. But Zhao Zi didn’t keep him there long. Cao Hao escorted Zhao Zi all the way to the post station. After Zhao Zi had left and the dust from his wheels had settled, Cao Hao said to his chief clerk, "Mr. Zhao's reputation is so great. As a local official, I failed to properly host him when he passed through my jurisdiction. I’ll be the laughingstock of everyone!" After speaking, Cao Hao immediately threw down his seal and followed Zhao Zi. After the visit, Zhao Zi returned home. He was respected for this. Zhao Zi was known for his integrity and simplicity in office, receiving his salary on time every day. Wealthy landlords feared his frugality. He served in the East Sea for three years and resigned due to illness, but the court summoned him back to serve as an official. Zhao Zi returned to the capital with his illness, and before he passed away, he instructed his former subordinates, Zhu Qi, Xiao Jian, and others, saying that he must be buried in a simple coffin and laid to rest in ordinary yellow soil, hoping to decompose quickly and return to the earth, and he forbade his descendants from altering this. Then, he left a letter instructing his son Zhao Yin:
People all have life and death; this is the natural law of the universe. Those who understand the reasons see through life and death and view them with indifference, just as one does with day and night. They do not indulge in pleasure while alive, nor do they mourn when dead. When a person dies, the body disappears, the soul disperses, returns to the origin, and eventually becomes nothingness. Since it has turned to dust, how can there be any feeling? Why does it matter if the soil is good or not, or if it is too wet or dry? It is only because living people cannot bear to see the body decay that the practice of burial exists. The Book of Changes states: "In ancient times, bodies were wrapped in firewood and buried in the wild, and later sages used coffins." The practice of coffin burial began with the Yellow Emperor. From the Yellow Emperor to Yao, Shun, Yu, and Xia, burials were relatively simple; some used tiles, some used wood, and it wasn't until the Yin and Shang dynasties that they began to become more elaborate. The Zhou dynasty followed this practice and continued for several generations. Later, decorations such as walls, curtains, banners, inscriptions, and various cumbersome rituals were added, with strict regulations regarding burial site selection, the number of coffin layers, and the quantity of clothing. These practices were not only cumbersome and impractical, but also hard to arrange. Moreover, depending on different status and position, the specifications of funerals also vary. Starting from King Cheng and King Kang, these rituals gradually became corrupted. By the Warring States period, it became even more extravagant, and the ritual system gradually collapsed, leading to a chaotic hierarchical system. This ultimately resulted in the Marquis of Jin constructing lavish burial passages, the Duke of Qin implementing burial sacrifices, the officials of Chen State building three-layered tomb chambers, and the Sima of Song State constructing luxurious stone coffins. By the Qin dynasty, it violated moral principles and discarded the pre-Qin practices, indulging in extravagant customs, as the nation's wealth was wasted underground, with manpower and resources used in building tombs, rare treasures buried in the soil, and exquisite craftsmanship used in tombs. Since the dawn of civilization, the trend of extravagant burials has never been as pronounced as it was during the Qin dynasty. Even Confucius wanted to restore the rituals of the Zhou dynasty, and Mozi wanted to promote the ancient frugal way, but they could not stop this trend.
Let’s continue. The lavish burial practices of the Qin Dynasty reached unprecedented heights, making it unique in history. Although Confucius and Mozi both attempted to change this trend, they ultimately could not succeed. This lavish trend is deeply rooted in people's hearts and is hard to shake off.
The scholars of Huaxia all compete with one another, violating the fundamental principles of etiquette by focusing solely on its superficial aspects, pursuing the splendor of etiquette while abandoning its essence. As a result, they live in poverty but go all out for extravagant burials after death. How does this reflect the true intention of the sages who established etiquette? The ancient books record: "Although funeral rites emphasize etiquette, mourning is the most important." It also says: "Funeral rites should be simple rather than elaborate." But now it is not like this; we must use good coffins and burial clothes to show filial piety, and using lavish burial items to demonstrate filial piety—I do not agree with this. In the past, Emperor Shun was buried in Cangwu, and neither of his two concubines were buried with him. Is there really a need for such an arrangement? If a wise ruler can do this, what does that mean for us ordinary folks? Those elaborate rules of etiquette are completely unnecessary. In ancient times, people came together when there were mutual feelings and parted ways when the friendship waned; their actions and words were in accordance with etiquette, and they handled things appropriately. During the Spring and Autumn Period, Wang Sun was buried naked, and the Mo Yi people buried their bodies in the open air. They all achieved a harmonious unity with nature, emphasizing the quick handling of affairs. When Liang Boluan's father passed away, he buried him immediately, and after his own death, no one reburied him. Do these people not value family ties and loyalty? Furthermore, I am dull-witted, lacking in virtue, and my thoughts are simple. I simply want to follow the ways of the ancients to avoid making any mistakes. If you must do this, then do not doubt it anymore. I fear that you might be swayed by the current situation and others' opinions, and you might feel compelled to change the funeral arrangements against my wishes. Therefore, I have extensively referenced the practices of ancient sages, combined with the actual situation, to guide your thinking. I just want to dig a hole, place the coffin inside, and bury it right away; there shouldn't be a tomb above ground. Don't pick an auspicious day, skip the memorial service, don't linger by the grave, and avoid putting up a monument.
Children, you should all try your best! I won't say anything else from now on, okay?
After Zhu Qi and Xiao Jian returned the funeral proceedings home, their son Ziyin couldn't bear the thought of his father's body being buried in the earth and wanted to alter the funeral rites. Zhu Qi and Xiao Jian drew upon their father's dying wish to comfort him; thus, Ziyin honored his father's final wish. At that time, people praised him for his wisdom and discernment.
Praise: The young master, Changping, confronted the enemy with courage. Chunyu Ren and Ti, celebrated for their exceptional filial piety. He was fond of reading at his residence in Chao, and thus inherited the family's legacy. Bo Yu lingered, leaving only the faint traces of solitary bamboo. Wenchu Bo eventually departed, and the funeral rites ought to be conducted swiftly. Zhou maintained a close bond with his family, practicing frugality in his reverence for the deities.
