The Book of Changes says, "The teachings of the 'Retreat' hexagram are of great significance!" It also states, "One should not serve kings and nobles, but rather pursue one's own noble endeavors." Therefore, Emperor Yao aligned himself with the will of Heaven and refused to yield to the high-ranking officials and wealth of Yingyang; King Wu, despite his accomplishments and fame, always maintained the noble character of a solitary gentleman. From that time on, an increasing number of noble individuals emerged, each pursuing lofty ambitions in different ways. Some secluded themselves in the mountains and forests to achieve their ambitions, some avoided the officialdom to preserve their own integrity, some focused on self-cultivation to suppress inner restlessness, some stayed away from danger to seek peace, some contrasted their nobility against the corruption of the world, and some used the world's filth to inspire their purity. But do those who willingly toil in the fields and live a humble life by rivers and seas necessarily have a love for fish and birds, or an appreciation for mountains, forests, and plants? In reality, it’s simply in their nature. Therefore, there are countless people who bear shame yet refuse to leave their homeland, who would rather die than change their aspirations. If they easily changed their approach to life, they wouldn’t have become who they are. While some may seem to chase fame and fortune, they manage to rise above the noise of the world and attain a state of spiritual freedom. How can they even be compared to those who chase after fame and profit with cunning? As Xunzi said, "Those with lofty aspirations tend to look down on wealth and status; those who value righteousness often disdain kings and nobles."
The Han Dynasty declined, Wang Mang usurped the throne, and the righteous scholars were filled with righteous indignation. At that time, countless officials tore off their caps and discarded their robes, leaving the court in unison. Yang Xiong once said, "When the wild geese fly high and disappear into the clouds, what can hunters do to catch them?" This signifies that they distanced themselves from disaster and upheld their integrity. Emperor Guangwu personally visited the reclusive wise men, showing humility and respect, as if he were seeking something he could not attain; banners and chariots spread across the mountains and fields to summon them. Individuals like Xue Fang and Feng Meng were personally invited by Emperor Guangwu, yet they declined to serve; Yan Guang, Zhou Dang, Wang Ba, and others, although they took office, always maintained their integrity and refused to compromise. As stability returned to the realm, many righteous scholars and virtuous individuals came back, embodying the spirit of "raising the banner of righteousness and winning the hearts of the people"! Emperor Suzong also treated Zheng Jun with respect, summoned Gao Feng, and honored their integrity. Eventually, the emperor's virtues waned, corrupt officials rose to power, and noble women, ashamed to associate with the powerful ministers, resisted to the very end, disregarding personal safety, and many of them ultimately lost their lives. I document their refusal to conform to worldly corruption, alongside those who aspire to integrity, to ensure their deeds are preserved in this account.
There were once two old men in Yewang, and no one knew who they were. At that time, Emperor Guangwu was still in conflict with Emperor Gengshi, and the Guanzhong region was in chaos. Emperor Guangwu sent General Deng Yu west to fight, while the two old men were also on their way. After the battle, Emperor Guangwu was hunting in Yewang when he met the two old men catching birds on the road. Emperor Guangwu asked, "What are you catching birds for?" The old men pointed west and said, "There are many tigers over there. Every time we catch birds, the tigers come to catch us too. Your Majesty, please don't go that way!" Emperor Guangwu said, "As long as we are prepared, why should we be afraid of tigers?" One of the old men replied, "Your Majesty, you're mistaken! In the past, King Tang of Shang defeated King Jie of Xia at Mingtiao, and then established his capital in Bo; King Wu defeated King Zhou of Shang at Muye, and then established his capital in Haojing. These two kings both did their preparation work well. So, if you defeat others, others may also defeat you. Even if you are fully prepared, you cannot be careless!" Emperor Guangwu understood and said to the people around him, "These must be hermits!" He wanted to invite them to do things, but they declined and departed, leaving no one knowing where they had gone.
Next is Xiang Chang, whose courtesy name was Ziping, a man from Chaoge in Henan. He lived in seclusion without taking any official position, had a calm demeanor, and enjoyed studying "Laozi" and "Yijing." He was very poor, with little to eat; kind people often brought him food, but he only accepted what he needed and returned the rest. During Wang Mang's rule, the Grand Minister Wang Yi invited him several times, wanting to recommend him to Wang Mang, but he firmly declined. He continued his quiet study of the "Yijing" at home. Upon reading the hexagrams of "Decrease" and "Increase," he sighed and remarked, "I've come to understand that being poor is better than being rich, and being humble is better than being noble, but I still can't figure out whether it's better to be alive or dead!" During the Jianwu era, all his children had married and settled down, so he decided to sever ties with family matters and no longer manage them, saying, "From now on, just consider me dead!" He then let go and traveled with his friend Qin Qing from Beihai to explore the renowned Five Sacred Mountains, and in the end, no one knew where they had gone.
Feng Meng, also known as Zi Zikang, is a native of Duchang in Beihai. His family was very poor, and he served as a pavilion chief in the county. Once, the county magistrate came for an inspection; Feng Meng greeted him and then threw down his wooden shield and sighed, "How can a man of honor be a slave to others!" So he went to Chang'an to study and became proficient in the "Spring and Autumn Annals." At that time, Wang Mang killed his son Yu, and Feng Meng told his friends, "The Three Principles and Five Constants are all in ruins! If I don't leave, disaster will strike!" So he removed his hat and hung it on the eastern city gate, took his family, and set sail, eventually reaching Liaodong.
Feng Meng was knowledgeable in Yin-Yang philosophy and numerology and knew that Wang Mang was finished. After a while, he wore a clay pot on his head in the market and cried out, "It's over, it's over!" Then he secretly hid away.
After Emperor Guangwu ascended the throne, Feng Meng went to Mount Lao in Langye to cultivate himself, and everyone was influenced by him. The Beihai prefect heard of Zikang's reputation and sent officials to visit him to show respect, but Zikang paid them no mind. The prefect was quite displeased and sent people to arrest him. The officials were frightened and said, "Zikang is a great sage, known to all in the world. Wherever he goes, people respect him like a father. If you try to catch him, you will not succeed and will only bring shame upon yourself!" The prefect became even angrier, imprisoned the officials, and sent other officials to arrest Zikang. When the officials arrived at Mount Lao, the local residents rallied with weapons and crossbows to stop them. The officials were injured and bleeding, prompting them to rush back and report.
Later, the court issued an imperial decree summoning Zikang, but he claimed he was old and weak and had lost his way. He told the messenger, "The court summoned me because they believe I can contribute to the country, but I don't know how to serve the country yet. How can I possibly serve the court?" After that, he went back home. The court summoned him several times, but he refused, and in the end, he passed away of natural causes.
At first, Zikang, Xu Fang from the same county, Li Ziyun from Pingyuan, and Wang Jungong had a good relationship. They all understood the art of Yin and Yang and were very virtuous. Xu Fang and Li Ziyun each adopted a thousand disciples, while Wang Jungong lived a secluded life during turbulent times. People at that time commented, "The only one living in seclusion was Wang Jungong, who resided east of the wall."
Zhou Dang, courtesy name Bokuang, was from Taiyuan Guangwu. His family was wealthy, owning thousands of pieces of gold in property. His parents both passed away when he was young, and he was raised by relatives. However, they treated him unfairly and withheld his inheritance when he grew up. Zhou Dang lodged a complaint with the local authorities, and only then did his relatives return his property. After that, Zhou Dang shared his wealth with his relatives, freed all the slaves in his house, and went to study in Chang'an.
In the past, the local officials once humiliated Zhou Dang publicly, which he never forgot. Later, when he read the "Spring and Autumn Annals" and grasped the concept of revenge, he stopped his studies and returned home to challenge the local official to a duel. During the duel, Zhou Dang was injured and fell to the ground. Moved by Zhou Dang's sense of honor, the local official had him carried home and tended to with great care. After a few days, Zhou Dang recovered and left. From then on, he became even more disciplined and upheld noble character, and the people in the state praised him.
After Wang Mang usurped the throne, Zhou Dang pretended to be sick and stayed indoors. Later, when bandits ran wild, pillaging the counties, they did not enter Guangwu even when passing by the city.
During the reign of Emperor Guangwu, the court summoned Zhou Dang to be a consultant. He resigned from his position due to illness and lived in Minchi with his wife. Later, he was summoned again. Unable to refuse, he donned rough cloth and wrapped his head in straw to meet the minister. When Emperor Guangwu summoned him, Zhou Dang prostrated himself on the ground, refrained from bowing, and expressed his desire to uphold his principles. Emperor Guangwu agreed.
Dr. Fan Sheng submitted a memorial accusing the Zhou party, saying: "I have heard that Yao and Shun did not rely on Xu You or Chao Fu to establish their rule; the Zhou dynasty did not rely on Bo Yi or Shu Qi to establish the Way of Kings. I have observed individuals such as Zhou from Taiyuan, Wang Liang from Donghai, and Wang Cheng from Shanyang, all of whom have received the Emperor's favor. The Emperor sent messengers three times to invite them, and only then did they agree to go to the capital. However, when they arrived at the court, Zhou and his party showed no respect, neither kneeling nor paying their respects, and exhibited an arrogant and disrespectful attitude, ultimately leaving together. These individuals from the Zhou party lack talent in both literature and martial arts; they only seek to gain a good reputation and a high official position. I am willing to study the principles of governance beneath the Yuntai, and if my words are wrong, then punish me. They, on the other hand, seek false fame, exaggerate their own achievements, and pursue high positions and wealth, which constitutes extremely disrespectful behavior!" After Fan Sheng's memorial was written, the Emperor presented it to his ministers. The Emperor decreed: "Since ancient times, wise and virtuous rulers have always encountered disobedient subjects. Bo Yi and Shu Qi refused to eat the grain of the Zhou dynasty, and Zhou from Taiyuan refused my salary; they all have their own aspirations. Grant Zhou and his party a reward of forty bolts of silk." Zhou and his party subsequently retired to Mianchi, composed a two-part treatise, and passed away. The local people revered him and erected a shrine in his honor. Initially, Zhou and his fellow countrymen Tan Xianbo and Yin Mojunchang upheld their integrity by refusing to serve as officials during the Wang Mang period. During the reign of Emperor Guangwu of the Han dynasty, when the court summoned them, they all chose to decline.
Wang Ba, courtesy name Ruzhong, was from Guangwu in Taiyuan. When Wang Mang usurped the throne, he threw away his hat and belt, severing ties with the officialdom. During the Jianwu period, when the court summoned him to be a Minister, he only gave his name when meeting, not acknowledging himself as a subject of the emperor. When asked by the relevant department for the reason, he said, "The emperor has those who do not submit to him, and vassals have those who do not ally with them." The Minister of Works, Hou Ba, wanted to give up his position to Wang Ba, but Yan Yang said, "That's just how things are in Taiyuan; Ruzhong has also been infected with this habit." This matter was dropped. Wang Ba returned home due to illness and chose to live in seclusion to cultivate his character, living in a thatched cottage with a reed door. The court summoned him many times, but he never went and eventually passed away quietly.
Yan Guang, courtesy name Ziling, also known as Yan Zun, was from Yuyao in Kuaiji. He had a high reputation from a young age and studied with Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu. After Emperor Guangwu ascended the throne, Yan Guang changed his name, concealing his name and identity, making it impossible for anyone to find him. Emperor Guangwu missed his talent and sent people to search for him everywhere. Later, someone from the state of Qi reported, "There is a man wearing a sheepskin coat fishing by the river." The emperor suspected it was Yan Guang, so he prepared a comfortable carriage and exquisite silk, sending messengers to invite him. After three visits, he finally agreed to meet. He was arranged to stay in the Northern Army barracks, provided with daily meals and bedding from the imperial kitchen.
Minister of Works Hou Ba and Yan Guang had known each other before, and someone was sent to deliver a letter to him. The messenger said to Yan Guang, "I heard you've arrived, and my master is eager to visit you, but he's tied up with official duties and can't find the time. He would like to personally ask you a few questions in the evening." Yan Guang remained silent, took the letter, and wrote a reply, then orally dictated the contents of the letter, saying, "Lord Junfang: You are now in a high and powerful position, which is quite an achievement! But remember, only by embodying benevolence and righteousness in serving the world can you earn everyone's support. Flattery and pandering to others' wishes will ultimately lead to failure."
After Hou Ba received the letter, he presented it to the emperor. The emperor, after reading it, smiled and said, "This old fellow is still the same!" That day, the emperor visited Yan Guang's residence. Yan Guang was lying in bed and did not get up. The emperor walked to the bedside, stroked Yan Guang's abdomen, and said, "What a strange situation this is, Ziling. Can't you lend me a hand?" Yan Guang still had his eyes closed and did not react. After a while, he opened his eyes and carefully looked at the emperor, saying, "In the past, Tang Yao ruled the world with virtue, but Chao Fu chose to turn a deaf ear. Scholars all have their own aspirations; why do you have to force me like this?" The emperor said, "Ziling, am I ultimately unable to subdue you?" After saying this, the emperor sighed, climbed into his carriage, and left.
A few days later, the emperor invited Yan Guang to the palace again, and the two talked about the past, spending several days in each other's company. The emperor casually asked Yan Guang, "How do I stack up compared to before?" Yan Guang replied, "Your Majesty is better than before." Then the two lay down to rest, and Yan Guang unexpectedly rested his feet on the emperor's abdomen. The next day, the court astronomer reported that a comet had violated the imperial seat, and the situation was urgent. The emperor smiled and said, "It's just me and my old friend Yan Ziling sharing a bed."
Later, the emperor wanted to promote Yan Guang to Grand Counselor, but he refused and returned to his hometown of Fuchun Mountain to farm. Subsequent generations referred to the place where Yan Guang fished as Yanling Rapids. The three characters "Yanling Rapids" remain unchanged. In the seventeenth year of Jianwu, the emperor summoned him again, but he still did not go. At the age of eighty, Yan Guang passed away at home. The emperor was very regretful and ordered the counties to give him one million coins and a thousand hu of grain.
Jing Dan, styled Dachun, was a native of Meixian in Fufeng. When he was young, he studied at the Imperial College, was knowledgeable in the "Five Classics," and was very skilled in debate. Therefore, people in the capital all said, "The 'Five Classics' are vast and profound, and no one else but Jing Dachun can match it." The phrase "The 'Five Classics' are a tapestry, Jing Dachun" was also retained in the original text. He was a man of high integrity, never flattered or fawned upon, nor did he curry favor with the privileged.
In the later years of the Jianwu era, Prince Pei and the other four princes all lived in the Northern Palace, and they all liked to make friends and took turns inviting Zhang Dan, but none of them were able to do so. The Marquis of Xinyang, Yinjiu, who was the younger brother of the Empress Guanglie, relied on the power of his relatives and secretly told the five princes that he needed ten million coins to guarantee that he could invite Zhang Dan, and then secretly sent people to abduct Zhang Dan. Zhang Dan had no option but to comply, and Yinjiu deliberately prepared coarse tea and a simple meal of just wheat and green onion for him. Zhang Dan declined, saying, "I heard that your lordship's family is well-off, that's why I came to visit; how come the food is so poor?" Yinjiu had no option but to serve him a lavish feast, and Zhang Dan ate. After the meal, Yinjiu got up to send Zhang Dan to the carriage, and the attendants quickly rushed to bring over the carriage. Zhang Dan smiled and said, "I heard that Xia Jie used people to carry the sedan chair; do you also do the same?" Everyone in the room was taken aback. Yinjiu had no choice but to have the sedan chair removed. From then on, Zhang Dan secluded himself, stayed out of worldly affairs, and passed away peacefully.
Liang Hong, styled Boluan, was a native of Pingling in Fufeng. His father, Liang Rang, served as the City Gate Captain during the reign of Wang Mang, was appointed as the Lord of Xiuyuan, and was tasked with serving the heir of Shaohao, living in the northern region, and later passed away there. Liang Hong, still a child, simply rolled up a mat to bury his father.
Later on, Liang Hong went to study at the Royal Academy. His family was poor, but he was very frugal and upright. He read many books of various kinds but did not stick to the words and interpretations. After achieving success in his studies, he started raising pigs in Shanglin Garden. One time, he accidentally lost the fire, which set someone else's house on fire. Liang Hong searched everywhere for the owners of the burned house, asked them about their losses, and offered to compensate with his pigs. However, the owners thought the pigs were insufficient. Liang Hong said, "I have no other property; I'm willing to work for you to settle the debt." The owners agreed. So Liang Hong worked hard from morning till night without slacking off. The elderly neighbors recognized that Liang Hong was exceptional, so they joined together to scold the owners and praised Liang Hong as an elder. The owners then began to respect Liang Hong and returned all his pigs to him. Liang Hong did not accept them, left, and returned to his hometown.
Liang Hong was a man of high character; many wealthy families wanted to marry their daughters off to him, but he did not marry any of them. In his county, there was a family surnamed Meng; their daughter was fat, ugly, and dark-skinned, with the strength to lift a stone mill, and she was still single at thirty. Her parents asked her why she wasn't married, and she said, "I want to find someone as remarkable as Liang Hong." When Liang Hong heard this, he proposed to her.
Meng, the girl, asked Liang Hong to prepare rough cloth clothes, hemp shoes, as well as tools for spinning and sewing for her. On the day of the wedding, she dressed beautifully and walked in. After seven days, Liang Hong paid her no attention. Meng knelt by the bed and begged him, saying, "I heard that my husband is honorable and has refused several women, and I have also refused several men. Now that I have finally married you, I have no complaints!" Liang Hong said, "I want someone who wears rough cloth clothes and hemp shoes, someone who can live with me in seclusion in the deep mountains. You are dressed so beautifully now, even wearing makeup; this isn't what I’m looking for!" Meng said, "I just want to understand your aspirations. I have clothes for seclusion myself." Then she styled her hair in a simple bun, changed into rough cloth clothes, and started working. Liang Hong was very happy and said, "This is Liang Hong's wife! She can support me!" So Liang Hong gave her the name Deyao and the courtesy name Mengguang.
After some time, Mengguang said to Liang Hong, "I often hear you talk about wanting to live in seclusion to avoid disaster; why are you still silent now? Are you thinking of bowing down and submitting?" Liang Hong said, "Okay." So the two of them journeyed east through Hangu Pass, making a living through farming and weaving, reciting the Book of Songs and the Book of Documents, playing the zither for their enjoyment. They admired ancient scholars and even wrote songs for the Twenty-Four Gentlemen from Si Hao to later times. Later, they passed through the capital city. Liang Hong wrote a song called "The Song of Five Yis": "Ascending to the north, yi! Gazing at the imperial capital, yi! The palace towering high, yi! The struggles of the people, yi! Vast and endless, yi!" Emperor Suzong of Han was furious when he heard about it and wanted to hold Liang Hong responsible, but could not find him. So Liang Hong changed his name to Yao, adopting the courtesy name Houguang, and settled in the Qi and Lu regions with his wife.
After a while, they moved to the Wu region. Before they left, Liang Hong wrote a poem:
...... (original poem) ......
Alas, leaving my hometown, heading to the distant southeast! My heart feels heavy, filled with sadness and fatigue; my ambitions rise and fall, and it’s truly disheartening. I long to ride freely and embark on a carefree journey, but unfortunately, those around me envy me, spreading rumors to speak ill of me. They only know how to flatter and twist the truth, while I remain true to my principles, standing apart. I feel no shame; rather, I hope to find someone who appreciates me in this foreign land. So I wander leisurely, following in Confucius' footsteps as he traveled through various states, seeking talents. If I find someone who values me, I’ll leave my carriage behind and set sail. I’ve visited Yanling Jizi and hope to seek out Lu Zhonglian, though their appearances don’t matter to me; I hope Heaven grants me safety and smooth sailing. In the late spring season, the hills are lush and green, with wheat seedlings glistening. But gazing at this beautiful scene only deepens my sadness because beautiful moments fade quickly, and lovely things wither away. My heart, unable to find solace, when will this melancholy end? I’m the subject of gossip, mockery, and ridicule—who can truly understand me and convince me to stay?
After arriving in Wu, I sought refuge with the local nobleman Gaobo Tong and lived under the eaves of his house, earning a living by pounding rice. Every day when I returned home, my wife would have meals prepared, never daring to look me in the eye, always serving me with the utmost respect. Gaobo Tong observed this situation and found it curious and remarked, "This servant can actually make his wife respect him so much; he must not be an ordinary person." So, he invited me to live in his household. There, I dedicated myself to writing and research, producing more than ten works. Later, when I fell gravely ill and was nearing death, I told my master, "In the past, Lord Yanling buried his son between Mount Yi and Mount Bo without returning to his hometown; please do not allow my son to return my body to our hometown for burial." After my death, Gaobo Tong and others helped me find a burial site right beside the tomb of a martyr from Wu. Everyone said, "Yaoli is a martyr, and Boluan (my courtesy name) is noble; they can be buried together." After the funeral, my wife returned to our hometown of Fufeng.
Initially, my friend Gao Hui from Jingzhao, who had a fondness for the philosophy of Laozi from a young age, lived in seclusion in the Huayin Mountains. When I was traveling east and missing Gao Hui, I wrote a poem: "The birds are chirping, as if making an appointment to meet; I miss Gaozi, my heart is heavy with longing, thinking of you, Gao Hui, when will we cross paths again?" Unfortunately, we never crossed paths again. Gao Hui was also a proud man who never held an official position in his lifetime.
Gao Feng, courtesy name Wentong, was from Yexian, Nanyang. He was a scholar in his youth, relying on farming for a living at home, but he was dedicated to studying, reading day and night without stopping. His wife went to the fields to harvest wheat, drying it in the courtyard for him to watch over. However, on a day of heavy rain, Gao Feng was so absorbed in reciting scriptures, holding a stick in his hand, that he didn't notice the rain washing away the wheat. When his wife returned and asked him in surprise, he finally came to his senses. Later, he became a well-respected scholar, teaching at Xitangshan during the Western Tang period.
Neighbors got into a dispute over money and started fighting with weapons. Gao Feng tried to intervene but was unsuccessful, so he took off his hat, bowed, and pleaded repeatedly, saying, "Where is your sense of benevolence, righteousness, and propriety? Have you forgotten it?" The fighters were moved by him, dropped their weapons, and offered their apologies. Gao Feng, even in his old age, continued to adhere to his principles and gained a great reputation. The local governor invited him to serve as an official multiple times, but Gao Feng declined, claiming he was a descendant of shamans and not suitable for official positions. He even pretended to have a land dispute with his widowed sister-in-law, simply to avoid becoming an official. During the Jianchu era, the master craftsman Ren Wei wanted to recommend Gao Feng for a government position, but Gao Feng pretended to be ill to escape to his home. He gave all his possessions to his lonely brother and nephew, retired to a life of fishing, and eventually passed away peacefully at home. A commentary on the article said, "The ancient hermits exhibited a distinct style! Yingyang's Xu You refused to listen to suggestions for retirement; Guzhu's Boyi and Shuqi fasted, ashamed to eat food from the Zhou dynasty. Some secluded themselves in the mountains to challenge societal norms, while others stood up against evil to correct the ways of the world. Although their methods differed, their intentions were the same. People like Gao Feng aspired to great heights like the clouds, yet remained obscured in the muck, their reputation not even recognized. Compared to those who flatter and depend on the powerful, they are worlds apart!"
Tai Tong, whose courtesy name was Xiaowei, was a native of Ye County, Wei Commandery. He lived in seclusion on Wuan Mountain, living in a cave and making a living by gathering herbs. During the Jianchu era, the local authorities summoned him to take up an official position, but he refused to go. When the inspector arrived in the area, he sent someone to invite Tai Tong to meet him. Tai Tong feigned illness to decline the invitation. The inspector personally brought gifts to visit Tai Tong, saying, "Mr. Xiaowei, living in seclusion like this must be very hard, right?" Tai Tong replied, "I have been fortunate to keep my life and well-being. Serving the imperial decree like you, working day and night, isn't that hard?" After saying this, he left and returned to his secluded life, ultimately not taking up an official position.
Han Kang, styled Boxiu, also known as Tianxiu, was a native of Baling in Jingzhao, from a family that had been prominent for generations. He frequently went to famous mountains to gather herbs, selling them in Chang'an City at a consistent price he had kept for over thirty years. One day, a girl came to buy herbs from him, and he still insisted on the original price. The girl angrily said, "You're Han Boxiu, aren't you? Why are you so stubborn, never changing your prices?!" Han Kang sighed and said, "I originally wanted to hide and not let others know about me. Now even a young girl knows me. What's the use of gathering herbs anymore?" So he fled to Baling Mountain. The court sent scholars and official carriages to invite him several times, but he did not go. Emperor Huan of Han had to go to great lengths, sending a special carriage with the most formal invitation.
The messenger, on behalf of the emperor's orders, went to find Han Kang. Han Kang had no choice but to agree. However, he refused the comfortable carriage and instead rode in a rickety cart, setting off early in the morning before the messenger. When they reached an inn, the innkeeper heard that the renowned Han Kang was passing through and had his workers repairing a bridge. Mistaking him for a local old man, he let him use the oxen. Without a word, Han Kang gave him the oxen. Later, when the messenger arrived, he realized that the old man who had given up the oxen was Han Kang. The messenger wanted to report to the emperor and have the innkeeper executed. Han Kang said, "I gave it to him myself, what crime has the innkeeper committed?" So the matter was dropped. Later, Han Kang escaped partway and eventually passed away peacefully.
Jiaoshen, courtesy name Zhongyan, was a native of Maoling in Fufeng. He had loved the teachings of Huang-Lao since childhood, secluded himself in the mountains, dug a cave in the ground to live in, and studied the breathing exercises of Song Qiao. He was from the same hometown as Ma Rong and Su Zhang, who were almost contemporaries. Ma Rong was famous for his outstanding talent, while Su Zhang was respected for his honesty and integrity. However, they both regarded Jiaoshen as their superior.
Wu Cang, a native of Runan, holds him in high regard and writes to inquire about his aspirations. In the letter, he writes: Mr. Zhongyan, you are dedicated to your seclusion, though you occasionally venture out, and your living situation varies. Whenever the west wind blows, you must feel a sense of longing! I heard that the teachings of Huang Lao advocate embracing emptiness, returning to nothingness, and retreating into seclusion, which is also beneficial for governing the country, cultivating talents, and applying it to politics. But like you, living in seclusion in the mountains and forests, isolated from the world, the divine will not affirm your existence, and the world may remain unaware of your contributions. I hope you will engage in something within your means. What do you think? In the past, Yi Yin sought no fame, waiting instead for a wise ruler like Yao or Shun. Now is a time of peace and prosperity, the world is stable, and few remain like Chao Fu and Xu You, who hid in Jishan, or Boyi and Shuqi, who regret hiding in Shouyang Mountain. If you can soar freely among the clouds like a dragon and phoenix, that's beyond the reach of mere foxes, rabbits, and sparrows!
Lao Shen never married and remained a bachelor well into his seventies. Later, he suddenly returned home, declared that his time had come, and he indeed passed away that very day. What's even more amazing is that some claim to have seen him in Dunhuang, leading later generations to find him peculiar; some even say he is a fairy.
Shen and Ma Yao, both from the same county, lived in seclusion in Qianshan, sustaining themselves through hunting. His dwelling was in a community with simple customs, where the locals held him in high regard, referring to him as Mr. Ma Mu.
Dai Liang, known as Shuluan, hailed from Shenyang in Runan. His great-grandfather Dai Zun, styled Zigao, served as an imperial censor during the reign of Emperor Ping of Han. After Wang Mang seized the throne, Dai Zun feigned illness and returned home. His family was quite wealthy, known for their charitable deeds and chivalrous spirit. His home frequently hosted three to four hundred guests. People of that era often remarked, "Dai Zigao, the great wealthy man of the East!"
Dai Liang was a troublemaker from a young age. His mother loved the sound of donkey braying, so Dai Liang often brayed like a donkey to make her happy. After his mother passed away, his brother Dai Boluan followed all the mourning rituals strictly, while Dai Liang gorged on meat and drank until he finally cried from grief. As a result, both brothers ended up looking haggard from their excessive grief. When asked if his mourning behavior was in accordance with etiquette, Dai Liang replied, "Of course it is! Etiquette is meant to restrain emotions. If emotions are not restrained, what's the point of having etiquette? I have no appetite, that's why I look like this. If I didn't find it hard to swallow, eating wouldn't be a big deal." Those people had no comeback.
Dai Liang was talented and had unique opinions that often shocked people. When asked by Xie Jixiao from the same county who he thought he could compare himself to in the world, Dai Liang replied, "If I were like Confucius in Donglu, like Dayu in Xiqiang, then I would be unparalleled in the world; no one could compare to me!"
Some recommended him to become a filial and incorrupt official, but he refused. Later, others recommended him to take up a position in the Sikong government office, but he didn't go for several years. Under pressure from the local officials, he reluctantly went to the office to resign from his post, and then left with his wife and children. They eventually escaped to the mountains of Jiangxia. From then on, he led a laid-back life, avoiding official positions, and eventually passed away peacefully in his old age.
Dai Liang had five daughters, all of them virtuous. Whenever someone came to propose marriage, he happily agreed, sending his daughters off with just some simple clothes, a straw mat for bedding, and a bamboo basket. All five daughters inherited his family tradition and had the demeanor of recluses.
Fa Zhen, style name Gaoqing, was from Meixian in Fufeng, the son of Xiong, the Prefect of Nanjun. He was exceptionally studious, living a modest life, and extensively studied a wide range of classical texts, becoming a renowned scholar in the Guanzhong region. He had several hundred students scattered across various places, including Fan Ran from Chenliu. He was indifferent to fame and fortune, rarely engaging in worldly affairs.
Once, the Prefect wanted to meet him, so Fa Zhen visited him wearing a casual hat. The Prefect said, "Although Duke Ai of Lu was not outstanding, Confucius still served him. Although my position is small, I would like you to serve as a magistrate and work for the court. What do you think?" Fa Zhen replied, "You have treated me with such respect, so I dared to visit. If you want me to take a position, I'd rather live north of Beishan and south of Nanshan!" The Prefect felt too embarrassed to say anything further.
Later, when the court opened public offices and selected virtuous talents, Fa Zhen did not apply. A fellow from the same county, Tian Ruo, recommended Fa Zhen to the court, saying, "Master Fa Zhen is well-versed in both talent and learning, with a wealth of knowledge. He lives in seclusion, content with poverty and the Daoist way of life. He aspires to the life of the Daoist sages and will not be swayed by official duties. I hope Your Majesty can give him an official position, and he will surely play the song 'Qing Miao,' attracting the phoenix symbolizing sagacity!" Just then, Emperor Shun of Han was on a western tour, and Tian Ruo recommended Fa Zhen again. The Emperor admired him and summoned him four times. Fa Zhen said, "Since I cannot hide my name and flee far away, how could I drink the 'ear-cleansing' water? (a metaphor for taking on official responsibilities)" So he remained in seclusion and never accepted office.
His friend Guo Zheng evaluated him as follows: "Master Fa Zhen, everyone knows his name, but his true self is hard to see. He avoids fame and fortune, but they follow him; he evades reputation, but it pursues him relentlessly. He is truly an example for future generations to emulate!" So everyone carved stones to praise him, referring to him as Mr. Xuande. He lived to the age of eighty-nine, passing away quietly in the fifth year of Zhongping.
Once upon a time, there was an old man from Hanyin, and no one knew his origins. During the reign of Emperor Huan of Han, the emperor went to Jingling for a visit. As he passed through Yunmeng and arrived at the banks of the Mian River, the common folk gathered to watch. Among them, this old man was quietly tending to his fields without stopping. At that time, there was a man named Zhang Wen, a gentleman of the imperial secretariat from Nanyang, who found this old man rather intriguing. He sent someone to ask him, "Everyone's come to see the spectacle, why are you still farming here, old man?" The old man smiled but remained silent. Zhang Wen walked up to the old man, about a hundred steps away, and muttered to himself as if he were chatting with the old man. The old man said, "I'm just a simple country guy, and I don’t grasp those grand principles. I want to ask you, is it chaos that brings about an emperor, or is it peace that does? Is the emperor meant to be the people's father, or to have the people serve him? In the past, those wise emperors of old who ruled the land lived in thatched cottages, used rough wood to build houses, and the common folks could all live and work in peace. Now your emperor enjoys himself, works the common folks to the bone, frolicks around everywhere, looking all out of sorts. I’m ashamed for you—how can you let people come and gawk?" Zhang Wen blushed upon hearing this. He wanted to know the old man's name, but the old man stayed tight-lipped, so Zhang Wen walked away.
Another story: there was an old man from Chenliu, but his origins are unclear. During the reign of Emperor Huan of Han, the party purge disaster occurred. There was a man named Zhang Sheng, from Chenliu, who was the county magistrate in Waihuang at that time. As a result of this incident, he lost his position and returned to his hometown. On the way, he met a friend, and the two of them collaborated on a memorial. Zhang Sheng said, "I heard that the state of Zhao slaughtered a bellowing calf, and Confucius saw this situation by the river and turned back; the bird's nest was destroyed, the water pool was drained, and the dragons and phoenixes ceased to appear. Now those eunuchs are causing trouble day by day, framing loyal officials. Shouldn't those wise and virtuous men just leave the court? If they can't establish their virtues, gain the court's support, or even protect their lives, what can they do?" As they spoke, they both cried bitterly. At this time, an old man passed by, leaning on a cane, and sighed as he said, "Ah, why are you two crying so sadly? The dragon will not hide its scales, the phoenix will not hide its feathers, the nets of heaven are spread wide; where can you possibly run? What good is crying?" The two wanted to speak to the old man, but he walked away without a glance back, and after that, no one knew where he had gone. "Zhao slaughters the bellowing calf; Confucius turns back by the river; the nest is overturned, the pool drained, and the dragons and phoenixes have vanished."
Pang Gong, from Xiangyang, lived south of Xianshan Mountain and never entered the city. He and his wife respected each other as they would a guest. Jingzhou Governor Liu Biao tried several times to persuade him to take an official position, but failed. He had to visit Pang Gong in person. Liu Biao said, "Isn't it more important to protect the world than to protect oneself?" Pang Gong smiled and replied, "Wild geese build nests high in the trees and find a place to rest at night; turtles dig holes in deep water and also find a place to sleep at night. What we pursue, what we abandon, and whether to act or refrain, is like the nests of birds and beasts, each with its own place of residence. Not everyone can protect the entire world." After speaking, he continued to work in the fields, while his wife weeded in front of him. Liu Biao pointed to the fields and asked, "Sir, you work so hard in the fields yet refuse official positions. How will you leave a legacy for your children?" Pang Gong replied, "Others leave their descendants in dangerous situations, but I leave them a stable life. Although what I leave behind is different, it's certainly not nothing." Liu Biao sighed and left. Later, Pang Gong took his wife and children to Lumen Mountain to gather herbs and was never seen again.
Praise: The rivers and seas are deep, and the mountains and forests stretch far. The distant nature is sparse, while the free spirit soars above the clouds. The path is both empty and whole, but actions often clash with the mundane.
