It is said that during the early period of the establishment of the Han Dynasty by Emperor Guangwu, Liu Xiu, the world had just gone through wars and chaos, with the system of rituals and music having collapsed and the classics and documents having been severely lost. Emperor Guangwu, Liu Xiu, had a particular fondness for studying the classics. Before stabilizing his rule, he sought out Confucian scholars far and wide, gathered scattered texts, and restored incomplete classics.
Previously, many scholars had hidden their precious books deep in the mountains and forests. Since Emperor Guangwu ascended the throne, everyone began bringing their own books and classics to the capital. Renowned scholars such as Fan Sheng, Chen Yuan, Zheng Xing, Du Lin, Wei Hong, Liu Kun, and Huan Rong successively came to the capital. Therefore, Emperor Guangwu established the position of five Confucian scholars, each teaching students based on their family's academic lineage. The "Book of Changes" had four schools: Shi's, Meng's, Liangqiu's, and Jing's; the "Book of Documents" had three schools: Ouyang's, Xiaohou's, and Xiaohou's; the "Book of Songs" had three schools: Qi's, Lu's, and Han's; the "Record of Rites" had two schools: Daidai's and Xiaodai's; the "Spring and Autumn Annals" had two schools: Yan's and Yan's, bringing the total to fourteen scholars, with the Ministry of Rites overseeing their management.
In the fifth year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu ordered the construction of the Imperial College. According to ancient classics, various sacrificial vessels were arranged appropriately, and students donned prescribed attire to learn ancient rituals. In the first year of Zhongyuan, the Imperial Ancestral Temple was subsequently constructed. After Emperor Ming ascended the throne, he personally presided over the sacrificial ceremony at the Imperial Ancestral Temple. The emperor wore solemn ceremonial robes, rode in a magnificent carriage, held a grand ceremony, received the courtiers' worship in the Ming Hall, ascended the Lingtai to observe the celestial phenomena, held sacrificial activities at the Imperial Ancestral Temple, and honored the Three Elders and the Five Lords. After the sacrifices and archery rites, the emperor took the time to teach personally, as Confucian students approached to ask questions, and people wearing Confucian hats and robes surrounded the gate of the Imperial Ancestral Temple to watch and listen. The crowd was so vast that estimates suggested it exceeded ten million.
Later, Emperor Guangwu established schools for the descendants of meritorious officials and certain families, selecting outstanding teachers to educate them. Even the imperial guards of the Yulin Army had to study the "Classic of Filial Piety." Even the Xiongnu sent children to the imperial academy to study. It was truly a gathering of talent, unprecedented in scale, reaching its peak during the Yongping era!
During the Jianchu era, the emperor summoned a large group of Confucian scholars to the White Tiger Temple for a major academic conference, discussing the similarities and differences of various schools of thought for several months before concluding. The emperor personally presided over the meeting, as grand as the previous gatherings at the Stone Qu Library, and specifically had historians record the discussions, compiling a book called "Tongyi." The emperor also ordered talented students to study the "Book of Documents," "Classic of Poetry," "Gongyang Commentary," and "Zuo Zhuan." Although no schools were specifically established, as long as they performed well, they could be promoted to official positions, recruiting hidden talents and preserving various schools of thought. Emperor Guangwu also frequently visited the Eastern Pavilion to read various books.
When Empress Dowager Deng took over the government, the academic atmosphere started to decline. At this time, Fan Zhun and Xu Fang submitted a memorial suggesting to prioritize education, stating that many Confucian scholars in government positions were not up to the task. Therefore, the empress dowager ordered the court officials to carefully select talents, recommending anyone from the three departments who excelled in Confucian studies. From Emperor An onwards, the emphasis on culture waned; the scholars were lax in their teaching, the students were lazy and competitive, the schools fell into disrepair and were converted into vegetable gardens, and even shepherd children wandered into the schools to tend their sheep and chop wood.
Later, Emperor Shun of the Han followed the advice of Zhai Pu and renovated the schools, building a total of 240 buildings and 1850 classrooms. Those who did not pass the exams could retake the exams as students, and the enrollment quotas for the two subjects, Class A and Class B, were increased by ten each. The respected Confucian scholars from various counties were promoted to positions as officials or scholars. In the first year of the Benchu era, Empress Liang ordered, "From the Grand General to officials receiving a salary of six hundred stones, all must send their sons to school. A banquet was to be held each year during the hunting season in the villages, establishing a custom." From then on, the number of students increased to over thirty thousand. However, there were many who became rote learners, focusing only on flowery language, and the authentic Confucian spirit, however, began to decline.
After the Party and Gentry Incident, many talented and virtuous people were exiled or dismissed from their positions. Later, these people fought against each other, accused each other, and even secretly bribed others, tampering with scriptures on bamboo slips in the Lantai to achieve their goals. In the fourth year of Xiping, Emperor Ling ordered Confucian scholars to revise the "Five Classics," inscribe them on stone tablets in three different scripts for easier reference, and erect them at the gate of the academy for the whole nation to study.
During Emperor Guangwu's relocation to Luoyang, the number of court records and books exceeded two thousand carts, which later multiplied several times. However, when Dong Zhuo relocated the capital, the common people were thrown into chaos, and the classics and writings stored in places like Biyong, Dongguan, Lantai, Shishi, Xuanming, and Hongdu were torn apart and looted. Books made of silk were torn into curtains or used as wrapping. Dong Zhuo's subordinate, Wang Yun, salvaged some and sent them west, but more than half were lost during transit. Later, Chang'an fell into chaos, and all the books were burned, completely lost.
There were too many scholars in the Eastern Capital to record them all, so this book only lists those who were proficient in Confucian studies, written in the "Confucian Forest" section. Those who already have biographies will not be repeated. As for teacher-student relationships, if proof is necessary, it will be included.
The book says: Tian He taught the "Book of Changes" to Ding Kuan, who then passed it on to Tian Wangsun, who in turn passed it on to Shi Cheng of Pei County, Meng Xi of Donghai, and Liang Qiuhe of Langya. Therefore, the "Book of Changes" has the teachings of the Shi, Meng, and Liang Qiu families. In addition, Jing Fang of Dongjun learned the "Book of Changes" from Jiao Yanshou of Liang, forming the Jing family's teachings. Also, Fei Zhi of Donglai passed on the "Book of Changes" to Wang Heng of Langya, forming the Fei family's teachings, using ancient words known as "Ancient Text Changes." Gao Xiang of Pei County passed on the "Book of Changes" to his son Gao Kang and Wu Jiangyong of Lanling, forming the Gao family's teachings. The Shi, Meng, Liang Qiu, and Jing families all established doctorates, while the Fei and Gao families did not.
Liu Kun, styled as Huan Gong, was a man from Dongjun in Chenliu, a descendant of King Xiao of Liang. He studied etiquette from a young age. During the reign of Emperor Ping, he studied the "Shi Family's Changes" from Dai Bin of Pei County. He could also play elegant music and was proficient in Qingjue melodies.
During Wang Mang's reign, he often taught over 500 students. During the spring and autumn sacrifices, he always prepared according to the ritual standards, using plain wood and gourd leaves for sacrificial vessels, and using mulberry wood bows and arrowheads made of mugwort for shooting at a target shaped like a rabbit's head. Every time he held a ceremony, the county magistrate would bring his subordinates to observe. Wang Mang felt that Liu Kun had too many students gathered and held private ceremonies, demonstrating a sense of overreach, so he imprisoned him and his family in Outer Huang Jail. Later, after Wang Mang's failure, Liu Kun was released. After the chaos in the world, Liu Kun fled to Mount Fudu in Henan to escape the turmoil.
In the fifth year of Jianwu, he participated in the examination for filial piety, but did not pass, so he ran away and went to teach in Jiangling. When Emperor Guangwu heard about this, he immediately appointed him as the magistrate of Jiangling County. At that time, Jiangling County was plagued by fires every year, and this man knelt down and knocked his head against the fire, and he was said to have the ability to summon rain and calm the winds. Later, the court summoned him to serve as an advisor, and he gradually rose through the ranks to become a courtier, and then the Governor of Hongnong.
Earlier, there were many tigers on the courier road between Xiaoshan Mountain and Minchi. People walking on the road were all scared and couldn't get through. He served as the magistrate of Hongnong for three years, enforced benevolent governance, and as a result, the tigers even crossed the Yellow River with their cubs. When the emperor heard about this, he found it utterly unbelievable. In the 22nd year of Jianwu, he was summoned to replace Du Lin as Guanglu Xun. The emperor asked him, "When you were in Jiangling, you managed to extinguish fires, and later in Hongnong, the tigers all crossed the river. What good deeds did you perform to bring about such results?" He replied, "It was purely a coincidence." The people around him laughed at his honesty and his awkwardness in speech. However, the emperor sighed, "This is the demeanor of a wise elder!" and then ordered his words to be recorded on bamboo slips. He was also instructed to give lectures to the crown prince, other princes, and young lords, totaling more than fifty people. In the 27th year of Jianwu, he was appointed as a cavalry captain. In the 30th year of Jianwu, when he was old, he requested retirement, and the emperor rewarded him with a house in Luoyang, and a stipend of one thousand shi to enjoy his retirement. In the second year of Zhongyuan, he passed away.
His son, Yi, styled Junwen, inherited his father's career and had many students. During the Yongping period, he became the Crown Prince's middle son. During the Jianchu period, he was promoted to Zongzheng, and after his death, the title of Zongzheng became hereditary in his family.
Wa Dan, styled Ziyu, was from Yuyang, Nanyang. His family had been practicing the I Ching for generations. During the reign of Wang Mang, he secluded himself to teach, dedicated himself solely to studying the works of the sages, never took up an official position, and had several hundred students. In the early years of Jianwu, he was appointed as a scholar, and then gradually promoted. In the 11th year of Jianwu, he rose to the position of Grand Herald. He also wrote seven essays on the I Ching, referred to as "Wadan's Commentary on the I Ching." Wa Dan's research on classical texts was very profound, and he was held in high regard in the study of the I Ching, regarded as a great scholar. In the 17th year of Jianwu, he passed away while in office at the age of seventy.
At that time, Zhongshan Huayang Hong, styled Mengsun, was also famous for teaching the I Ching, and during the Yongping period, he was appointed Minister of Finance.
Ren An, also known as Dingzu, was from Mianzhu, Guanghan, Sichuan. When he was young, he studied at the Imperial Academy, studied the "Yi" of the Meng family, and was familiar with several classics. He also studied the art of divination with his fellow countyman Yang Hou, delving deep into this field of study. People said at the time, "If you want to know Zhonghuan's (referring to Ren An) thoughts, just ask Ren An." They also said, "People nowadays should learn from the practices of ancient people; we should learn from Ren Dingzu!" After completing his studies, he returned to his hometown to teach, and students came from far and wide to seek knowledge. He initially served as an official in the prefecture, but later the Grand Commandant summoned him twice, making him a doctor. The court even sent an official carriage to summon him, but he declined on the grounds of illness. The governor Liu Yan recommended him, but due to transportation difficulties at the time, the imperial appointment never reached him. He passed away at home at the age of seventy-nine in the seventh year of Jianan.
Yang Zheng, styled Zixing, was from Jingzhao. He had a passion for learning from a young age, studying the "Liangqiu Yi" with Fan Sheng from Daijun, and was particularly adept at explaining the classics. People in the capital said, "Yang Zixing's explanations of the classics are powerful and vigorous!" He had hundreds of students.
Fan Sheng was once imprisoned because his wife accused him. Yang Zheng, with his bare upper body, pierced his ear with an arrow, held Fan Sheng's son on the roadside, waiting for the emperor's carriage to pass by. He then knelt down with the memorial in hand, shouting loudly, "Fan Sheng married three times, only has one son who is now three years old; he is so pitiful!" The cavalry and Tiger Guards were worried about disturbing the emperor's carriage, raised their bows and arrows to shoot him, but he refused to leave; the Maotou Guards even used their spears to stab him in the chest, but he remained undeterred. He cried and pleaded, moving the emperor's heart, and the emperor ordered, "Request Yang Sheng (referring to Yang Zheng) to be Fan Sheng's teacher." So Fan Sheng was immediately released, and as a result, Yang Zheng's reputation soared.
Yang Zheng was a man who loved to drink, was carefree, was bold and self-assured, yet extremely loyal. At the time, the emperor's son-in-law Liang Song and the queen's brother Yin both admired his reputation and wanted to be friends with him. Whenever Yang Zheng spoke with them, he discussed matters earnestly and never compromised. He once visited Yang Xuhou Ma Wu, who did not want to see him and lied about being sick and not getting out of bed. Yang Zheng entered and walked directly to the bed, pushed Ma Wu, grabbed his arm, and rebuked him, saying, "You have benefited from the country's favor, holding the position of assistant minister. You should not be thinking about finding talents to repay the emperor's kindness, but arrogantly treat the outstanding talents of the world. That's not how you should treat your health! If you don't listen today, I will put a knife in your ribs!" Ma Wu's sons and the people around were all scared, thinking they were facing a bandit, holding weapons and surrounding them, yet Yang Zheng remained unfazed. At this time, Yin came and rebuked Ma Wu, telling him to be friends with Yang Zheng. That's just how resolute and steadfast Yang Zheng was. During the Jianchu period, he was promoted to Left Middle General.
Zhang Xing, courtesy name Junshang, was from Yanling, Henan. He studied the "Liang Qiu Yi" and taught students with it. During the Eastern Han Dynasty, he was recommended as a filial and upright person, became an official in the court, later resigned due to illness, and returned to his hometown to continue teaching. Later, he was summoned by the Minister of Works Feng Qin to work at the government office, and Feng Qin recommended him as a teacher of integrity, gradually promoting him to Doctor. In the first year of Yongping, he was promoted to the position of Court Attendant and Libationer. In the tenth year of Yongping, he was appointed as the Prince's Tutor. Emperor Ming of Han often consulted him on scholarly matters. Later, Zhang Xing's reputation grew, with over ten thousand students recorded coming from afar, establishing himself as the leading figure of the Liangqiu school. In the fourteenth year of Yongping, he passed away in office. His son Zhang Fang inherited his career and rose to the position of Commandant of Zhangye Shuguo.
Dai Ping, courtesy name Cizhong, was from Pingyu in Runan. He studied the "I Ching" (Book of Changes) by the Jing family. At the age of sixteen, he was recommended by the county as a scholar of distinction and went to the capital to participate in the doctoral examination, where he was appointed as a Langzhong.
Once, the emperor called a meeting with his officials; everyone took their seats, but only Dai Ping stood. Emperor Guangwu asked him why. Dai Ping replied, "Those scholars who lecture on the classics are not as good as I am, yet they sit above me, so I cannot take a seat." The emperor immediately called him to the hall and allowed him to debate the classics with other Confucian scholars, during which Dai Ping explained many difficult questions. The emperor admired him and often summoned him to discuss the affairs of state. The emperor said to Dai Ping, "Courtiers should help the court govern the country without hiding anything." Dai Ping replied, "Your Majesty, you are being too harsh." The emperor asked, "Where am I harsh?" Dai Ping said, "I saw the former Grand Commandant's Western Censor Jiang Zun, who was honest and upright, loyal and filial, and knowledgeable, but Your Majesty imprisoned him because you believed the slander of others. Everyone in the world thinks you are too harsh." The emperor angrily said, "Is this a plan by the people of Runan to form factions again?" After finishing his words, Dai Ping went to the Ministry of Justice to confess, and the emperor ordered him to be released. Later, the emperor summoned him again, and Dai Ping said, "I do not have the courage to speak bluntly, but I spoke arrogantly and foolishly. I cannot risk my life to offer counsel; I can only live in shame; I am truly sorry for Your Majesty." The emperor immediately ordered the Minister to lift Jiang Zun's confinement and appointed Dai Ping as General of the Tiger Guards, concurrently serving as a courtier.
During the New Year's congratulations, all the officials gathered together, and the emperor ordered those who could explain the classics to debate with each other. If the reasoning was not clear, their seats would be taken away and given to those who could explain clearly. Dai Ping thus rose more than fifty seats. So, there was a saying in the capital: "If you can't explain the classics, ask Courtier Dai." Dai Ping served in this position for eighteen years and died in office. The emperor granted him a coffin made of catalpa wood from Dongyuan and two hundred thousand pieces of silver.
At that time, Wei Man from Nanyang, styled Shuyu, also studied the "Classic of Changes by Jing" and taught it to his students. During the Yongping period, he became the governor of Hongnong. Sun Qi, styled Zhongyu, was from Chengwu County in Jiyin Commandery. When he was young, he was a scholar who studied the "Classic of Changes by Jing" and the "Shangshu" of ancient texts. Although his family was poor, he showed great filial piety towards his mother, often tending to pigs in a large marsh to provide for her. Many people from afar came to learn from him, waiting for him along the field paths with books in hand. His benevolence and humility influenced the people of his village. During the Yellow Turban Rebellion, when the rebels came through his village, they agreed not to harm Mr. Sun's family. The local government recommended him for an official position, sending people with sheep and wine to invite him to take the post, but Sun Qi ignored them and chased after his pig into the bushes, showing no interest. Situ Huang Wan specially summoned him to take up an official position, but he refused, eventually dying at home.
During the Jianwu period, Fan Sheng taught the "Mengshi Yi" to Yang Zheng, while Chen Yuan and Zheng Zhong taught the "Feishi Yi," which was later passed on by Ma Rong. Ma Rong passed it on to Zheng Xuan, who wrote the "Commentary on Changes," and Xun Shuang wrote the "Yi Zhuan." From then on, the "Feishi Yi" flourished, while the "Classic of Changes by Jing" gradually declined.
The "Book of Han" states that Fusheng from Jinan taught the "Shangshu," passing it on to Zhang Sheng from Jinan and Ouyang Sheng from Qiancheng. Ouyang Sheng passed it on to his fellow townsman Er Kuan, who passed it on to Ouyang Sheng's son, continuing the lineage until it reached the great-grandson of Ouyang Gao, forming the Ouyang School of "Shangshu." Zhang Sheng passed it on to the Xiahou Commandant, who passed it on to his family member Shichang, who passed it on to Sheng, forming the Daxiahou School. Sheng passed it on to his cousin's son Jian, who established the Xiahou School. All three schools established scholar positions. Additionally, Kong Anguo from Lu passed on the "Gushu Shangshu" to Chao, who passed it on to Yingtang from Jiaodong, forming the Gushu School of "Shangshu," but they did not create scholar positions.
Ouyang She, courtesy name Zhengsi, was a native of Qiancheng County in Le'an Commandery. The transmission of the "Fu Sheng Shang Shu" from Ouyang Sheng to Ouyang She spanned eight generations, with each generation producing a scholar. Ouyang She inherited the family teachings, was respectful, modest, courteous, and willing to yield. During the reign of Wang Mang, he served as the Magistrate of Changshe. After Emperor Gengshi established his rule, he became the Magistrate of Yuanwu. After Emperor Guangwu restored order to Hebei, he visited Yuanwu and saw Ouyang She diligently managing the county affairs, so he promoted him to Commandant of Henan and later appointed him as Prefect. When Emperor Guangwu ascended the throne, Ouyang She was appointed as Governor of Henan and was granted the title of Viscount of Beiyang. In the fifth year of Jianwu, he was dismissed from office for an error. The following year, he was appointed as Governor of Yangzhou and later appointed Prefect of Runan. He promoted and appointed talented individuals, achieved remarkable success in governance, and stood out from the crowd. In the ninth year of Jianwu, he was granted the title of Marquis of Ye.
Ouyang She taught hundreds of students in She County. He began his official career at nine and was later summoned by the court to serve as Grand Chancellor. During an investigation in Runan, he uncovered a corruption case involving over ten million in funds, which led to his conviction and imprisonment. Thousands of his students flocked to the court to advocate for him, with some even shaving their heads to demonstrate their commitment.
Renli Zhen of Pingyuan, who was only seventeen at the time, heard that the esteemed Minister Ouyang Xie, a paragon of Confucian scholarship, was going to be executed, so he immediately rushed to the capital to save him. When he reached Huaijia County in Henan, he bound himself and submitted a memorial requesting to take Ouyang Xie's place in death. In his memorial, he wrote: "I have heard that Ouyang Xie, who comes from a family of scholars for eight generations, has been sentenced to death due to a corruption case. Ouyang Xie has only a widow and an orphan in his family, unable to carry on his scholarly pursuits. If he dies, his knowledge will be irretrievably lost. This would bring Your Majesty the disgrace of having executed a talented individual and will also deprive students of their teacher's guidance. I beg Your Majesty to kill me in place of Ouyang Xie." The memorial was submitted, but Ouyang Xie had already died in prison. Ouyang Xie's aide, Chen Yuan, also submitted a petition seeking justice for him, which was heartfelt and moving. In the end, the Emperor granted Ouyang Xie a coffin, an official seal, and three thousand bolts of silk fabric. Ouyang Xie's son inherited his title but later died without leaving an heir. Cao Zeng of Jiyin, styled Boshan, was a student of Ouyang Xie, studying the "Shangshu." He taught three thousand students and eventually rose to the position of Grand Censor. His son Cao Zhi became the Prefect of Henan, carrying on his father's legacy. Chen Yan of Chenliu, another student of Ouyang Xie, studied Ouyang Xie's commentaries on the "Shangshu" and later served as the magistrate of Qixian County.
Mou Chang, courtesy name Jun'gao, was from Linji, Le'an. His ancestors were rulers of the Mou kingdom, but after the Mou kingdom fell at the end of the Spring and Autumn period, they took Mou as their surname. When Mou Chang was young, he studied the "Shang Shu" annotated by Ouyang Xie. During Wang Mang's reign, he held no official position. In the second year of Jianwu, the Grand Minister of Works specifically summoned him to serve as a scholar, and he gradually rose to become the Prefect of Henei. He was dismissed because the facts regarding land reclamation were inconsistent. When Mou Chang was a scholar and Prefect of Henei, he had over a thousand students and listeners, totaling tens of thousands. He authored the "Shang Shu Zhangju" based on Ouyang Xie's annotations, which is commonly referred to as the "Mou Family Annotations." Later, he was summoned to be a Palace Attendant, and the court allowed him to take a year of rest, and he ultimately passed away at home. His son, Mou Yu, also lived in seclusion as a teacher, with a thousand students. Emperor Suzong wanted to summon him as a scholar when he heard about it, but he died before he could take office.
Song Deng, courtesy name Shuyang, was from Chang'an in Jingzhao. His father, Song You, once held the position of Grand Commandant.
Ouyang Deng was a renowned teacher who educated countless students. Later, he became the Magistrate of Ruyin County, noted for his outstanding achievements, and the common people affectionately referred to him as "Father God." He was promoted again and became Prime Minister of Zhao, and later rose to the central government as the Supervisor of the Masters of Writing. Emperor Shun of Han believed he understood rites and music, so he appointed him to oversee the Imperial Academy and tasked him with establishing music standards. He was later promoted to Palace Attendant. He frequently submitted memorials to the emperor, criticizing powerful ministers, which led to his later exile to Yingchuan as Prefect. Under his governance, the market was fair, and there were no losses on the roads; it was like a paradise on earth! Later, due to illness, he resigned and went back home. After his death, the people of Ruyin continued to honor him.
Zhang Xun, styled Zijun, was a native of Dingtao, Jiyin. He studied at the Imperial Academy when he was young and could recite the "Zuo Zhuan" of the Spring and Autumn Annals. He earned a living teaching the "Da Xia Hou Shangshu." Later, he was summoned to work in a government department and, after passing the exam, was appointed as a Counselor. He and Cai Yong participated in the revision of the Six Classics. He was later promoted to Shizhong, in charge of the Secretariat, and was highly regarded by the emperor. He often made suggestions to the court based on actual circumstances, and the emperor appreciated him. Later, he was appointed as the prefect of Danyang, where he achieved significant accomplishments. In the seventh year of Guanghe, he was recalled to court and appointed as a Shangshu, and later promoted to Minister of Agriculture. During the Chuping period, he passed away while in office.
Yin Min, styled Youji, was a native of Duyang in Nanyang. He was an aspiring scholar when he was young. He initially studied the "Ouyang Shangshu," and later studied "Ancient Texts," and was well-versed in the "Book of Songs," "Guliang Commentary," and "Zuo Zhuan," showing extensive knowledge. In the second year of Jianwu, he submitted a memorial to the emperor, proposing to use the methods in the "Hongfan" to eliminate disasters. At that time, Emperor Guangwu of Han had just established the dynasty and was too preoccupied to address these matters, so he had Yin Min wait in public service, and later appointed him as a Langzhong official, and later transferred him to the Ministry of Works.
The emperor thought Yin Min was knowledgeable, so he asked him to proofread the divination book and delete the passages Cui Fa wrote about Wang Mang. Yin Min said, "Those prophetic books were not written by sages. There is much vulgar language, akin to what common folk would use, and it may mislead future generations." The emperor did not listen to him. Yin Min took advantage of the missing words and added a sentence himself: "You are mute and serve the Han." The emperor was very surprised when he saw it and asked him what was going on. Yin Min said, "I saw people in the past modifying books, so I dared to try it myself, hoping it would be somewhat useful." Though the emperor was furious, he chose not to punish him; however, this incident impeded his career. He had a good relationship with Ban Biao, and every time they met, they would chat until late, even forgetting to eat, staying up all night. They saw themselves as kindred spirits akin to Zhong Ziqi and Boya, or Zhuangzi and Huishi.
This person was later promoted several times and eventually became the magistrate of Changling County. In the fifth year of Yongping, the court ordered the arrest of a man named Zhou Lv. Zhou Lv was well-regarded and intelligent, yet his cleverness led to his implication and imprisonment, resulting in the loss of his official position. After coming out, he sighed and said, "Those who are mute and deaf are the truly righteous people! Why do those who are sharp-witted encounter such calamities?" In the eleventh year of Yongping, he was appointed Langzhong and later promoted to Grand Master of Remonstrance. He ultimately passed away at home.
Zhou Fang, courtesy name Weigong, was a native of Runan Ruyang. His father, Zhou Yang, was impoverished and frequently ran an inn to accommodate travelers without charging them. Zhou Fang became a minor official in the district at the age of sixteen. When Emperor Guangwu of Han visited Runan, he summoned officials to assess their knowledge of classical texts. Zhou Fang excelled in recitation and was appointed as a county magistrate. However, since he was still underage, he chose to resign from office. He later studied the Classic of History under the mentorship of Gai Yu, the governor of Xuzhou. Zhou Fang gained recognition for his scholarly accomplishments and was recommended as a model of filial piety and integrity, eventually attaining the rank of Langzhong. He wrote thirty-two essays titled "Miscellaneous Records of the Book of Documents," comprising around four hundred thousand characters. The Grand Commandant Zhang Yu recommended him to be a Doctorate candidate, which led to further promotions, ultimately becoming the Prefect of Chenliu. However, he was removed from office for breaking the law. He passed away at the age of seventy-eight years. His son, Zhou Ju, is also documented in a separate biography.
Kong Xi, courtesy name Zhonghe, was from Lu County in the State of Lu. Starting from his great-grandfather Kong Anguo, their family has been preserving the "Classic of History" and "Book of Songs" for generations. His great-grandfather Kong Zijiang, when young, traveled to Chang'an to study and had a good relationship with Cui Zhuan. Later, Cui Zhuan became the Governor under Wang Mang's rule and once advised Kong Zijiang to become an official. Kong Zijiang replied, "I think like a commoner, while you have ambitions to become a high-ranking official. Let us each follow our own aspirations; isn't that good?" Since our paths diverge, I bid you farewell!" He then returned home and passed away there. Kong Xi and Cui Zhuan's grandson Cui Yin also had a good relationship. They studied together at the Imperial Academy, delving into the "Spring and Autumn Annals." Once, they read the story of King Fuchai of Wu, and Kong Xi set the book aside and sighed, "People like Fuchai are what they call 'drawing a dragon but ending up with a dog'!" (This idiom refers to a failed attempt at something that results in an undesirable outcome.) Cui Yin said, "Yes. When Emperor Wu of Han just ascended the throne at the age of eighteen, he revered the ways of the sages, emulated the previous kings, and within five or six years, his reputation surpassed Emperor Wen and Emperor Jing. But later, he indulged himself and forgot the good deeds he had done before." Kong Xi said, "There are too many examples like this recorded in books!" Liang Yu, overhearing their conversation from the next room, interjected, "So, is Emperor Wu also a 'dog'?" Kong Xi and Cui Yin remained silent. Liang Yu was furious and bitter towards them, so he secretly reported Cui Yin and Kong Xi for defaming the former emperor and criticizing the current one. This incident was brought to the attention of the authorities, and Cui Yin was summoned for interrogation. Kong Xi learned that soldiers were on their way to arrest him and feared for his life, so he hurriedly wrote a letter to Emperor Suzong, confessing his wrongdoing:
I think that those who accuse others of slander are implying that it never happened and are deliberately framing others. Just like the achievements of Emperor Xiaowu, whether good or bad, are clearly written in the history books, as clear as the sun and moon. This is a direct quotation of the facts in the history books, not false slander at all. If the emperor does good deeds, all good deeds in the world will be attributed to him; if he does bad deeds, all bad deeds in the world will be concentrated on him. There are reasons for all of this, so people should not be killed just for speaking. Your Majesty, since you ascended the throne, although your reign has not been long, your benevolence has already reached the entire realm; everyone can see it. What is there for us officials to criticize about? Even if we are wrong, you should still reflect on your actions; if we are wrong, you should also be tolerant—what crime is there in that? Your Majesty, if you do not carefully analyze the situation, do not seriously consider your own interests, and merely vent your personal grievances for your own satisfaction. If we officials are killed, we will die, but I am worried that people in the world will change their views because of this and speculate on Your Majesty's intentions through this incident. Who will dare to say things they should not say in the future? I’m not afraid to die, and I’m willing to speak my mind because I sincerely regret this hard-won great cause for Your Majesty. If Your Majesty does not cherish it, then what use am I? Duke Huan of Qi even personally exposed the faults of his ancestors to elevate Guan Zhong, so that the ministers could speak freely. Now Your Majesty wants to conceal the facts of Emperor Xiaowu for ten generations; isn't this completely opposite to Duke Huan's approach? I am worried that officials will suddenly attack each other, harbor grudges, suffer injustice, have no chance to defend themselves, and let future commentators casually compare Your Majesty with others. Can future generations really hide this? I’m currently waiting at the palace gate to face severe punishment. At first, the Emperor did not think we were guilty. After reading the memorial, he immediately ordered not to pursue the matter and even promoted us to the rank of Historian of the Lantai.
In the spring of the second year of the Yuanhe era under Emperor Xianzong of the Tang Dynasty, the emperor embarked on an eastern tour. On his return journey passing through the State of Lu, he made a special visit to the Confucius Temple to honor Confucius and his seventy-two disciples, and performed music from the Six Dynasties. He gathered sixty-three male members of the Kong family aged twenty and over and invited Confucian scholars to explain the Analects. Kong Xi (a descendant of Confucius) seized the opportunity to express his gratitude. The emperor asked, "Is this grand gathering today a great honor for your Kong family?" Kong Xi replied, "I have heard that wise kings and emperors always respect their teachers and uphold righteousness. Your Majesty's personal visit today to our humble home honors our ancestors and showcases your virtue. As for honor, I cannot accept it." The emperor laughed heartily and remarked, "Only a descendant of a sage could speak such words!" Therefore, the emperor appointed Kong Xi as a Langzhong official, rewarded Marquis Baocheng Kong Sun and the male and female members of the Kong family with silk fabrics, and ordered Kong Xi to accompany him back to the capital, allowing him to serve in the East Palace as a copyist.
In winter, Kong Xi was appointed as the magistrate of Linjin County. Cui Yun used the "Jialin" divination and deemed it an inauspicious sign, advising Kong Xi, "Why don't you resign from this official position?" Kong Xi replied, "Learning is not for the sake of holding office, and holding office does not discriminate against positions. Good or bad fortune lies within oneself. Should that be decided by divination?" He served as the magistrate of Linjin County for three years and left a will requesting to be buried on the spot after his death.
He had two sons, the eldest named Yan and the second named Jiyi, both in their teenage years at that time. The county magistrate of Puban, Xun Junran, advised him to bring his father's coffin back to the State of Lu. Kong Xi replied, "To bring my father's coffin back now would contradict his last wishes; and to abandon his grave and leave, I cannot bear to do that." Therefore, he remained in Huayin. The eldest son Yan was fond of studying the classics, while the second son Jiyi inherited the family legacy, attracting hundreds of disciples.
During the first year of Emperor Yan Guang of Han An, there was heavy rain and hail in the Hexi region, with hailstones as big as buckets. Emperor An ordered knowledgeable people to explain this unusual disaster, so Ji Yan was summoned to the Deyang Palace, where the emperor personally inquired about the reason. Ji Yan replied, "This is a sign of yin energy encroaching on yang energy. Currently, the court is controlled by powerful officials, and the empress dowager wields significant power. Your Majesty should uphold virtuous governance and be vigilant of these two matters." The emperor remained silent, and those around him were unimpressed with Ji Yan's response. Later, Ji Yan was recommended for the title of Filial and Incorrupt, but he declined. Three years later, at the age of forty-seven, Ji Yan passed away at home.
At first, during the reign of Emperor Ping of Han, under Wang Mang's rule, Confucius' descendant Kong Jun was appointed as the Marquis of Baocheng, and Confucius was posthumously given the title Baocheng Xuanni. After Wang Mang's failure, the Marquisate of Baocheng was abolished. In the thirteenth year of Jianwu, Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu reappointed Kong Jun's son Kong Zhi as the Marquis of Baocheng. After Kong Zhi's death, his son Kong Sun inherited the title. In the fourth year of Yongyuan, the Marquisate of Baocheng was renamed Baoting. After Kong Sun's death, his son Kong Yao inherited the title; after Kong Yao's death, his son Kong Wan inherited the title. The Kong family held the title for generations, until the early years of Emperor Xian of Han, when the Marquisate of Baoting was finally discontinued.
Yang Lun, courtesy name Zhongli, was from Donghun in Chenliu. When he was young, he passed the imperial exams and studied the "Ancient Documents" with Minister Ding Hong. He later became a literary officer in the county. He had several bosses but was always mindful of current affairs, but because he struggled with interpersonal relationships, he resigned from his post and refused any further appointments in the state and county. He taught in Daze, attracting over a thousand students. During the Yuan Dynasty, the county repeatedly asked him to take a position, the three offices simultaneously summoned him, and the court even sent an official carriage to fetch him, but he turned them down, citing illness.
Later on, the court summoned him to serve as a scholar and made him the teacher of the Prince of Qinghe. That year, Emperor An passed away, and Yang Lun immediately abandoned his official duties to mourn, crying at the palace gates without stopping. Empress Dowager Yan believed he had abandoned his post without permission and punished him.
After Emperor Shun ascended the throne, he issued an edict to absolve Yang Lun of his guilt and allowed him to stay in Gongling to mourn Emperor An. After the mourning period, the court summoned him to serve as a court official. At that time, the magistrate of Shaoling, Ren Jia, was found to be corrupt and was reassigned as the prefect of Wuwei. Later, someone reported Ren Jia's crimes, involving significant sums of money, so the court ordered his arrest, followed by interrogation by the judicial officer, which implicated over a hundred officials and ministers. Yang Lun wrote a memorial saying, "I have heard that the 'Spring and Autumn Annals' states that to eradicate evil, one must address the root. Once the root is destroyed, the evil naturally disappears; it's like straightening the collar of a fur coat; once the collar is straightened, the fur will fall into place. Now Ren Jia has committed numerous crimes but has not been punished; doesn't this clearly condone evil? If the masterminds are not held accountable, how can we eradicate the sprouting of evil? In the past, the magistrate of Huland, Zhang Die, the magistrate of Xiao Sui, and the governor of Xuzhou, Liu Fu, all of their crimes have been investigated and punished, but corrupt officials and scoundrels have not been eradicated. Isn't it because the responsibility of the masterminds has not been pursued? When King Qiwei was dominant, he killed five treacherous ministers and investigated their accomplices to quell slander. This must be done, as cautioned in the text 'Yellow Stone Gong', about the danger of this practice. A wise ruler can heed the opinions of common people, like dust settling on Mount Tai and Mount Song, or fog enveloping the Huai River and the sea; while it may not bring benefits, it won't cause any harm. I hope Your Majesty will take my suggestion seriously."
After the memorial was presented, the relevant officials deemed Yang Lun's memorial to be frank and disrespectful, so they suppressed it. The Minister claimed that Yang Lun had uncovered court secrets and intentionally used this to urge the court to address corruption. As a result, Yang Lun was accused of disrespect and sentenced to "ghost pay" (an ancient punishment). However, the edict also stated that Yang Lun had repeatedly offered loyal advice, so he was pardoned and allowed to retire.
In the year 133 AD, I was appointed as the Grand Master of the Palace by the court, a significant official position. Later, General Liang Shang appointed me as his chief secretary. But we clashed frequently, as I often opposed him, so I was ultimately reassigned to teach Prince Changshan. However, I was sick at the time and couldn't go at all. The court even sent someone to urge me to take up my post, but I chose to stay in Chaoge, Henan, and feigned illness to the Emperor, and even declared: "I would rather die here than take one step north! Even if you kill me, I will never regret it! The resolve of a commoner like me is stronger than that of a thousand soldiers!" Seeing how stubborn I was, the Emperor issued an edict stating that I had failed to perform adequately after my promotion, deliberately delaying and feigning illness to evade responsibilities, truly a stubborn fellow. Although I was eventually summoned to the Ministry of Justice, I was not held accountable.
I was called upon by the court three times, each time due to my candid advice angering those in power. Later, I ultimately returned home, shutting my doors to visitors, focused on teaching and educating, and cut off contact with the outside world. When the court sent a carriage to summon me, I still evaded the invitation, and ultimately, I passed away at home.
During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Mou Rong, a native of Beihai, was studying the "Book of the Great Xiahou," Wang Liang from Donghai was studying the "Book of the Lesser Xiahou," and Huan Rong, hailing from Peiguo, was studying the "Ouyang Shangshu." The academic lineage of Huan Rong was well-organized, particularly thriving in the Dongjing area. Regarding the "Ancient Texts of Shangshu," it was transmitted by Du Lin, a native of Fufeng, with his fellow townsman, Jia Kui, providing annotations, Ma Rong composing a biography, and Zheng Xuan offering commentaries. This is how the "Ancient Texts of Shangshu" gradually gained recognition.
