Confucius said, "The Book of Changes embodies four principles of the gentleman's way, one of which is 'The diviner's interpretations should be respected.' Divination, as it was known, was employed by ancient emperors to determine auspiciousness and inauspiciousness, and to resolve uncertainties, to secretly seek the will of the divine, and thus predict future events. Concepts like yin and yang are frequently referenced in ancient texts. However, those enigmatic and obscure texts, like jade tablets and golden cords, are locked in the temple, hidden on high altars, and cannot be seen. As for texts like the 'River Chart' and 'Lo Book', the patterns of turtle shells and dragon bones, the divination methods of Jizi and Shikuang, as well as other methods of astronomy, calendar, divination symbols, and spells, are utilized to delve into the mysteries of the cosmos and to speculate on human fate, sometimes with some effect. Additionally, various other divination techniques exist, such as cloud observation and weather pattern analysis, which can also be effective at times. Nonetheless, this knowledge is deep and complex, thus, the sages refrain from discussing the supernatural or divine beings, and rarely discuss life and death. Occasionally, they might disclose some insights, but ultimately keep the core hidden, which aligns with the saying, 'The people can be guided by it, but not made to understand it.'"
After Emperor Wu of Han, he developed a particular fondness for these practices. Individuals skilled in these arts from all corners of the country flocked to him. Later, Wang Mang seized power and similarly employed the notion of talismans. Emperor Guangwu held a particular belief in prophecies. Those seeking to align with the times strained to align themselves with these ideas and eagerly engaged in discussions about them. People like Wang Liang and Sun Xian, who excelled in divination and prophecy interpretation, were granted prestigious positions and generous rewards; Zheng Xing and Jia Kui became famous for their endorsement of these concepts; while Heng Tan and Yin Min failed because they went against these beliefs. From that time on, the study of these esoteric teachings, the promotion of peculiar characters, and the emphasis on odd numbers became fashionable. Therefore, many learned scholars felt angry about these unreliable and false things, vehemently criticizing them in memorials, advocating for their complete eradication. Sima Qian remarked, "Reading the texts of the Yin and Yang masters fosters caution and suspicion." Perhaps that is the reason.
Everything has its biases, and it is impossible to be without flaws. Although it is said to be the great path, certain aspects may indeed be similar. Just like the Book of Songs sometimes appears foolish, and the Book of Documents sometimes appears hypocritical. So, are the fallacies of divination and fortune-telling likely even more absurd? If one can embody gentleness and sincerity without foolishness, then one can delve deeper than the Book of Songs; if one can understand reasoning without being false, then one can be deeper than the Book of Documents; if one can master numerology and know how to adapt without resorting to mysticism, then one can be deeper than those divination methods. Therefore, it is said, "Without true understanding, principles cannot genuinely take effect." Many individuals frequently lose sight of the bigger picture, their choices are biased, and even those who are unrestrained and excessive in their words and actions are prone to error.
Now, let's discuss Zhang Heng. He was a famous astronomer and calendar expert in the Han Dynasty. Lang Yi was also very skilled in divination, as were some other notable experts. Among their students, there were also some talented and virtuous individuals, but not all of them could fully master their skills. Now, I mainly summarize that they were particularly good at deducing changes, which can help address current shortcomings, so I have organized their deeds into a table.
Ren Wengong hailed from Langzhong in the Ba Commandery. His father, Wensun, was proficient in astronomy, calendar calculation, and various divination techniques. Ren Wengong learned his father's skills from a young age and was later appointed by the state. During the reign of Emperor Ai, there were rumors that the Governor of Yuegui was planning a rebellion, and the provincial governor was quite alarmed. He sent Ren Wengong and four others to inspect the boundaries of the county and secretly observe the situation. They stayed together at the post station, and suddenly a violent storm arose. Ren Wengong urged the others to leave quickly, warning that rebels were coming to cause harm. He quickly got on a carriage and rode away. The other four had not yet left when soldiers from the county arrived and killed them, with only Ren Wengong escaping unharmed.
Later, he became an official in charge of administrative affairs. During a severe drought, he told the provincial governor, "On the first day of May, there will be a great flood. The disaster is imminent and unavoidable, so officials and the people should prepare in advance." The provincial governor did not listen to him, but Ren Wengong prepared a large boat for himself. Some people among the populace also took precautionary measures upon hearing about it. On the predicted day, the weather was extremely hot. Ren Wengong quickly had his belongings moved onto the boat and informed the provincial governor, who scoffed at him. By noon, dark clouds gathered in the north, and soon a heavy rain began. By the afternoon, the river surged more than ten meters high, destroying many houses and causing the deaths of thousands. Ren Wengong gained widespread fame for this prediction and was later appointed as an official overseeing public works. After Emperor Ping ascended the throne, he feigned illness and returned home.
After Wang Mang usurped the throne, Ren Wengong foresaw great chaos, so he had his family members carry heavy loads of a hundred catties and run around the house, making dozens of trips each day. At that time, no one knew why he was doing this. Later, chaos broke out, and many people could not escape, but Ren Wengong's family managed to carry grain and escape swiftly, all safely avoiding the turmoil. He fled to Mount Zigong and remained untouched by the turmoil for over a decade.
When Gongsun Shu was in power, the stone used for military transport in Shu County was disrupted. Wengong sighed and said, "Alas! The wise men of the West have perished, and this responsibility has fallen on me." Since then, he often gathered his descendants and hosted feasts and gatherings. Three months later, he passed away. Therefore, the people of Yizhou created a saying: "Ren Wengong, unmatched in wisdom."
Guo Xian, whose courtesy name was Ziheng, was from Song County in Runan County. When he was young, he became a disciple of King Donghai Liu Zhongzi. At that time, Wang Mang was the Grand Marshal and summoned Liu Zhongzi. Liu Zhongzi wanted to go, but Guo Xian advised him, "According to etiquette, you can go to learn, but you shouldn't actively teach others. Now you are disregarding righteousness and fearing the powerful, which I do not agree with." Liu Zhongzi said, "The royal is very noble; I dare not disobey." Guo Xian said, "Now is a critical time for teaching and learning; things should be done first." Liu Zhongzi followed his advice and only went in the evening. Wang Mang asked, "Why are you here so late?" Liu Zhongzi told Wang Mang exactly what Guo Xian had said, which caught Wang Mang by surprise. Later, Wang Mang usurped the throne, appointed Guo Xian as a high-ranking official, and rewarded him with clothing. Guo Xian accepted the clothing and burned it, fleeing to the coast of the East China Sea. Wang Mang was infuriated and sent people to pursue him, but had no idea where he had gone.
After Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu ascended to the throne, he searched for righteous people throughout the country and thus summoned Guo Xian, appointing him as a scholar official. Guo Xian was later promoted twice; in the seventh year of Jianwu, he succeeded Zhang Kan as the Grand Minister of Ceremonies. He followed the Emperor to the southern suburbs for ceremonies. During the ceremony, Guo Xian suddenly turned to the northeast and took three sips of wine. The officials reported that he had shown disrespect. The Emperor issued a decree to inquire about the reason. Guo Xian replied, "The state of Qi is on fire, so I used this method to suppress it." Later, a fire indeed broke out in Qi on the same day as the ceremony.
In the eighth year of Jianwu, the Emperor led his army westward to campaign against Wei Xiao. Guo Xian advised, "The world has just been stabilized, and the Emperor should not mobilize the army." Guo Xian even drew his sword in front of the Emperor and severed the carriage shaft. The Emperor did not listen and still went to Longxi. Later, there was a mutiny in Yingchuan, and the Emperor was forced to retreat to the capital. The Emperor sighed, "I really regret not listening to Ziheng's advice!"
At that time, the Xiongnu repeatedly invaded the border, which worried the Emperor, prompting him to summon all the officials for a discussion. Guo Xian believed that the realm was exhausted and that using the army was unwise. He strongly advised, but his opinion was not accepted, so he lay on the ground, feigning dizziness, and ceased speaking. The Emperor ordered two attendants to help him down the hall, and Guo Xian did not pay his respects. The Emperor said, "I often hear people refer to 'Guo Ziheng, the hero from the East', indeed not a false reputation!" Guo Xian then resigned on the pretext of illness and passed away at his home.
Xu Yang, styled Weijun, was from Pingyu County, Runan Commandery. In his youth, he had a passion for studying divination. During Wang Mang's rule, he was summoned as a court attendant and gradually rose to the rank of Commandant of Jiuquan. After Wang Mang usurped the throne, Xu Yang changed his name and identity, disguised himself as a shaman, and sought refuge elsewhere. It was only after Wang Mang's downfall that he returned to his hometown.
Once upon a time, there was a Hongxi Pond in Runan. During the reign of Emperor Cheng of the Han Dynasty, Prime Minister Zhai Fangjin reported that it was in ruins and suggested it be torn down. In the Jianwu era, Deng Chen, the magistrate of Runan, wanted to repair it. Hearing that Yang Xiao was knowledgeable about water conservancy, he summoned him for a discussion. Yang Xiao said, "Emperor Cheng once trusted Zhai Fangjin's words, but later dreamt he ascended to heaven, where the Heavenly Emperor angrily said, 'Why destroy my Zhaolong Yuan?' As a result, the people lost its benefits, leading many to suffer from hunger and poverty. At that time, there was a children's rhyme that went, 'It was Zhai Ziwei who destroyed our water embankment, gave us beans to eat, gave us taro to eat. Turn it around, turn it around, the water embankment should be repaired.' In the past, Yu the Great dredged rivers and lakes for the benefit of the world. Now you want to restore this abandoned project for the prosperity of the country and the well-being of the people. This nursery rhyme probably means that. I’m willing to put my life on the line to see this project through!" Deng Chen was very pleased and appointed Yang Xiao as the Director of Waterworks, putting him in charge. Based on the terrain, Yang Xiao constructed over four hundred miles of water reservoirs, which took several years to finish. The people benefited from it, and had bountiful harvests for several consecutive years.
At first, the wealthy and powerful families, who were required to contribute to the repair of the water embankment, tried to evade responsibility by shifting blame and passing the buck. Yang Xiao ignored them, so they falsely accused Yang Xiao of bribery together. Deng Chen then had Yang Xiao arrested, but strangely, the shackles on him unlocked by themselves. The jailer, frightened, quickly reported this to Deng Chen. Deng Chen exclaimed, "Truly a man of integrity! I have heard that loyal and upright people can move the heavens, and now it seems to be true!" That night, Deng Chen released Yang Xiao and allowed him to return home. The sky was overcast that day, and it seemed as if a light was shining on him as he made his way home, which people found strange. Later, Yang Xiao passed away due to illness. Deng Chen built a temple for Yang Xiao at the magistrate's office, and painted his portrait; the people remembered his achievements and came to pay their respects.
Gao Huo, courtesy name Jing Gong, was a native of Xinxi in Runan. He had a big head and a square face. When he was young, he studied in the capital and was an old friend of Emperor Guangwu. He studied under the tutorship of Ouyang She, the Minister over the Masses. When Ouyang She was imprisoned and facing execution, Gao Huo wore an iron cap and prisoner's clothes and ran to the palace to plead for Ouyang She. Although the Emperor did not pardon Ouyang She, he received Gao Huo and said, "Jing Gong, I would like to appoint you to an official position. You should change your stubborn character." Gao Huo replied, "My nature was given to me by my parents. I cannot change it for you." After saying this, he resigned from his official position.
It is said that three high officials in the court had wanted to appoint him as an official, but he did not agree. Later, the Administrator Bao Yu went to great lengths to invite him. When he arrived at the gate of the Administrator's residence, Bao Yu sent the chief clerk to welcome him, but the chief clerk sent only a low-ranking official on horseback. Upon hearing this, Gao Huo turned and left. Bao Yu sent someone to chase after him and bring him back. Gao Huo turned to Bao Yu and said, "Administrator, you have been deceived by the chief clerk; I cannot tell you about this matter." With that, he left without looking back. At that time, there was a severe drought in the county. He was well-versed in astrology and esoteric practices and could even summon spirits. Bao Yu personally sought his advice and asked how to make it rain. He said, "Quickly remove all three postal supervisors, leave through the north gate yourself, walk to the Thirty Li Pavilion, and it will rain." Bao Yu did as instructed, and sure enough, a heavy rain fell. Every time he went on a tour of the countryside, the locals would eagerly come out to greet him. Later, he went to Jiangnan and eventually died in Shicheng. The people of Shicheng deeply missed him and erected a shrine in his honor.
Wang Qiao, a native of Hedong. During the reign of Emperor Xianzong of the Han Dynasty, he was the magistrate of Yexian. Wang Qiao had extraordinary abilities, and at the beginning and middle of each month, he would travel from Yexian to the capital to meet the emperor. The emperor thought he came to the capital too often, but since he never saw him ride a carriage or horse, he secretly sent the court historian to observe. The historian reported that whenever Wang Qiao was nearing, two pairs of wild ducks would fly in from the southeast. So, when the ducks flew in, they set a net to catch the ducks, but only caught a shoe. Upon closer inspection, the emperor found that it was a shoe given as a reward to a high-ranking official four years ago. Every time Wang Qiao went to court, the drums at the entrance of the Yexian County government would sound by themselves, and the sound could be heard all the way in the capital. Later, a jade coffin descended from the sky and landed in front of the county government office; many people tried to push or pull it, but to no avail. Wang Qiao said, "Could it be that the Heavenly Emperor is summoning me?" So, he took a bath, changed into fresh clothes, lay down in the coffin, and the lid closed by itself. The next day, he was buried in the east of the city, and his grave miraculously formed by itself. That night, the cows in the county were sweating and panting, yet the people remained oblivious. The people built a temple for him called the Ye Jun Temple. Every new county magistrate had to pay respects to him first. The people's prayers to him were often answered. If anyone offended him, he would appear and punish them. Later, the emperor moved the self-sounding drum to Du Ting, and it never sounded again. Some say he was the ancient immortal known as Wang Ziqiao.
Xie Yi Wu, courtesy name Yao Qing, was from Shanyin, Shaoxing in Zhejiang province. When he was young, he held a minor official position in the local government and had a passion for studying astronomy and divination. The magistrate Fifth Lun took notice of him and promoted him to be the inspector. At that time, the county magistrate of Wucheng, Zang, was involved in a scandal, and Fifth Lun sent Xie Yi Wu to investigate the case. Upon arriving in Wucheng County, Xie Yi Wu conducted no investigation, but instead cried outside the county office before returning. The county residents were bewildered and unsure of his intentions. When he returned, Xie Yi Wu told Fifth Lun: "I secretly divined and knew that the county magistrate was going to die. Within a month at most, or two months at the latest, his soul would depart this world. This is fate, not something that can be controlled by humans, so I didn't arrest him." Upon hearing this, Fifth Lun received a message about a month later, announcing the sudden death of the county magistrate. Fifth Lun then held Xie Yi Wu in even higher regard.
Later, Xie Yi Wu was recommended as a model of filial piety and integrity, becoming the county magistrate of Shouzhang, eventually becoming the governor of Jingzhou, and then appointed as the prefect of Julu. He was deeply loved by the people in various places and had remarkable achievements. Later, when Fifth Lun became the Minister of Works, he asked Ban Gu to compose a recommendation for Xie Yi Wu, in which he wrote:
I have heard that Emperor Yao appointed Ji and Qi, leading to political prosperity and peace throughout the land; Emperor Shun appointed Gao Yao, leading to political clarity and good governance throughout the land. Even during the Yin and Zhou dynasties, with wise rulers such as King Gaozong, King Cheng, and King Wu, they still relied on the strategies of Fu Shuo and Lv Shang to achieve great success and reach a harmonious and unified golden age. In private, I believe that the Governor of Julu, Xie Yi Wu from Kuaiji, from the rough Eastern Province, is a remarkable talent with exceptional charisma. He excels in the four arts of scholarship, military strategy, agriculture, and commerce, embodies the nine virtues of Confucianism, his benevolence could save the nation, and his wisdom encompasses all things. Furthermore, he has been influenced by Confucian culture since childhood, is well-versed in the Six Classics, can calculate celestial phenomena, authenticate ancient texts, explore the mysteries of sages, observe celestial changes, speculate on calendars and omens, is knowledgeable in astronomy and geography, and has a connection with the divine. He governs the state's affairs with his noble character.
He used to be my subordinate, working with me. He was diligent, loyal, and brave, upholding the same integrity as Shi Yu did. He held me to a high standard, encouraged me to overcome weakness, and kept me from making mistakes. All of this is thanks to him. When he was appointed as a local official, his kindness spread among the people within a hundred miles, and his grace extended throughout the populace. His influence was almost godlike, and later, when he became the governor of Jingzhou, his reputation spread far and wide. He governed justly like Duke Zhou and Duke Zhao of the Zhou Dynasty, lived simply, and kept his promises, following the moral principles of Gongyi Xiu. He assessed merit, appointed talents, and set an example for others. He listened carefully, investigated diligently, and excelled among the feudal lords. After he became the Prefect of Julu, everything was transparent, and peace reigned. His talent and achievements could stand alongside Yi Yin, Lü Shang, Guan Zhong, and Yan Ying; he delved into the mysteries of Daoist classics, similar to Su Qin and Jing Fang in the Records of the Grand Historian. Although he held a high position, he was modest, not seeking fame or fortune, power or favor, only wanting to retire and imitate the recluse of Mount Ji. Comparing him to ancient sages, he indeed has similarities; when you compare him to people today, he truly stands out. He is truly a cornerstone of the Great Han Dynasty, a talent crucial to the nation. He should be promoted and given higher positions. This way, the celestial bodies can move orderly, and the people can be educated in a peaceful and prosperous era, bringing auspiciousness and prosperity. This is not only a matter of upholding the law and fulfilling duties. I am mediocre in talent and inadequate in ability, unworthy of holding this position. I am always on edge, treading on thin ice. I request to resign from my official position and pass it on to Xie Yiwu. This will highlight the court's wisdom, meet the people's expectations, relieve me of guilt, and save me from more regrets.
He later violated the ceremonial standards for provincial governors as recorded in historical records for riding a firewood cart during his spring travels, which undermined the country's rituals and systems, and was demoted to county magistrate of Xiapi. He knew the time of his death in advance, and indeed died on that day. Before his death, he told his son, "At the end of the Han Dynasty, there will surely be disasters of grave robbing and desecration of corpses." So he told his son to hang his coffin for burial without erecting a tomb mound.
At that time, the scholar Guo Feng, a native of Bohai, liked to study divination and was skilled at interpreting omens and predicting fortunes. He knew the time of his death in advance and instructed his disciples to buy a coffin and funeral supplies beforehand, and passed away on that day.
Yang You, styled Ai Hou, was from Chengdu, Shu County. He studied the Book of Changes (Yijing) at a young age, as well as astrology, meteorology, and other divination techniques. He worked as a literary clerk in the county. At that time, a large group of crows gathered on the warehouse building of the county government at night, and the governor Lin Fan asked Yang You what this meant. Yang You replied, "This indicates that there will be a small-scale mutiny in the county, but it will not cause great harm." Twenty days later, there was a rebellion by the barbarians in Guangrou County, who killed the local officials, prompting the county to deploy troops from the warehouse to quell the rebellion. Later, a strong wind picked up, rustling the leaves, and the governor asked Yang You what this meant. Yang You replied, "There will be offerings of wooden fruit, colored yellow and red." Shortly after, the official presented several bags of oranges.
Yang You once drank with others; he told the driver, "If we drink three rounds of drinks, prepare the carriage quickly." He soon hurried off. Later, a fight broke out at the host's house, and someone asked Yang You how he knew. Yang You said, "I saw two doves fighting in the temple just now; that's a sign of trouble!" Many of his predictions turned out to be accurate. He wrote more than ten articles, entitled "Qi Ping." Finally, he passed away at home.
Li Nan, also known as Xiao Shan, was from Jurong, Danyang. He was diligent in studying from a young age and proficient in astronomy and calendrical systems. During the reign of Emperor Yongyuan, the prefect Ma Leng was summoned by the court for a theft case and was to be tried at the Ministry of Justice, which made local officials and residents anxious. Li Nan made a point to visit and comfort Ma Leng. Ma Leng was not happy and said, "The prefect made a mistake and now has to be punished; why are you here to congratulate me?" Li Nan said, "There was an auspicious east wind this morning, and good news should arrive by noon tomorrow, so I came to congratulate you." The next day, Ma Leng was eagerly waiting, not sensing any signs; by afternoon, the courier arrived with the imperial decree, pardoning Ma Leng. Li Nan asked the courier why he was delayed. The courier said, "I had a mishap at Wanlingpu just now, so I couldn't arrive on time." Ma Leng finally believed Li Nan. Later, Li Nan was recommended as a talented person and summoned to serve in the government office, but he couldn't go because of illness, and he passed away at home.
There was a woman from Nanzheng who was knowledgeable about family affairs and married a man from Quan County. One morning, she went to the kitchen to cook and suddenly a strong wind blew. The woman quickly ran to the living room and asked her aunt to let her go home to say goodbye to her parents. Her aunt disagreed, so the woman knelt down and cried, saying, "In our family, it is said that when a strong wind suddenly blows, it first blows to the stove and well, which is a sign of disaster for the woman cooking. I'm afraid I'm going to die." She accurately predicted her own death. Only then did her aunt agree to let her go home, and indeed the woman died on the day she predicted.
Li He, styled Mengjie, was from Nanzheng in Hanzhong. His father, Li Jie, was well-known for his Confucian scholarship and held a doctorate-level position. Li He inherited his father's career, studied at the Imperial College, became well-versed in the Five Classics, and was also proficient in the study of rivers and constellations. He was quite unassuming and humble, and no one recognized him. Later, the county appointed him as a doorkeeper at the government office.
After Emperor He ascended the throne, he sent some envoys dressed in plain clothes and traveled alone to various places to investigate the sentiments of the people. Two envoys arrived in Yizhou and stayed in the small house where Li He was a doorkeeper. One summer evening, they sat outside to relax, and Li He looked up at the sky and asked them, "When you two left the capital, did you know that the court had sent you as envoys?" The two men were stunned, exchanged surprised glances, and said, "We didn't know!" Li He then asked them how they figured it out, pointing to the stars and saying, "There are two envoy stars moving towards the direction of Yizhou, that's how I figured it out."
Three years later, one of the envoys became the Governor of Hanzhong, while Li He remained a minor official. The Governor appreciated Li He's hidden virtues and promoted him to the Household Registrar. At that time, General Dou Xian had merely married; he possessed no virtues, but he was overbearing and tyrannical. The nation's crisis is approaching. I hope you will devote yourself to serving the court wholeheartedly and not associate with him." The Governor insisted on sending gifts, and Li He could not persuade him, so he asked to go deliver the gifts himself, and the Governor agreed. Li He intentionally stalled on the journey to assess the unfolding situation. Upon reaching Fufeng, Dou Xian took his own life, and his accomplices were also punished. Everyone who had dealings with Dou Xian was dismissed from their positions, except for the Governor of Hanzhong, who was not implicated.
Li He was recommended for his filial piety and integrity that year, and later he was promoted five times, becoming the Minister of Documents and then the Minister of Rites. In the fourth year of the Yuanchu era, he succeeded Yuan Chang as Minister of Works, repeatedly submitting memorials on the gains and losses of the state, exemplifying the loyalty of a devoted minister. After four years in office, he was dismissed for being too accommodating to those who sought his assistance.
After the death of Emperor Han An, the Marquis of Beixiang took the throne and subsequently became the Minister of Works. Later, when the Marquis of Beixiang fell ill, Yin colluded with the Palace Minister Herald and Infantry Commander Zhao Zhi to secretly support Emperor Shun. Because Sun Cheng and others had already arranged this matter in advance, Yin's contributions did not show prominently. The next year, as the populace fell ill and various disasters struck, Yin was relieved of his duties by imperial decree. After that, the Grand Architect Zhai Pu submitted a memorial to the Emperor, stating that Yin had "plotted great things in secret for the stability of the state." The Emperor then remembered his involvement in the conspiracy and granted him the title of Shedu Marquis, but he graciously declined. Yin passed away at home in his eighties. His student, Feng Zhou from Shangdang, observed a solitary mourning period for three years, a gesture regarded as remarkable by his contemporaries.
Feng Zhou, style name Shiwei, is a descendant of the Feng clan. He has always admired people like Zhou Bokuang and Min Zhongshu, living in seclusion amidst the mountains, forests, and rivers, never heeding the court's summons. As previously mentioned, Yin's son Gu. His student Li, style name Jizi, was upright and honest, knowledgeable, well-liked, and had close relationships with Zheng Xuan and Chen Ji. He served as the magistrate of Xincheng County, governing with the principle of "wu wei." He also enjoyed studying some mystical practices. During a severe drought, only his county received rain. He later attained the rank of Attendant of the Chariots.
Duan Yi, style name Yuanchang, was from Xindu County, Guanghan Commandery. He was proficient in the Book of Changes and adept at celestial observations. Many people went to learn from him, and even before they arrived, he could already know their names. He once told the guard at the ferry crossing, "There will be two scholars one day, carrying loads, coming to ask where my house is. Please tell them." This prediction proved accurate. Another student studied with him for a long time, believed he had grasped the essentials, and bid farewell to return home. Duan Yi prepared a balm for him, wrote a note, rolled it up, sealed it, and said, "Open it in case of emergency." The student reached Jiameng, got into a conflict with an official, and the ferry guard beat up his attendants. The student opened the note, which read: "When you reach Jiameng and find yourself in a conflict with an official, apply this balm to your head wounds." Following the instructions, his wounds healed instantly. The student was very impressed and returned to continue his studies. Duan Yi later withdrew into seclusion and eventually passed away at home.
Liao Fu, courtesy name Wenqi, was a native of Pingyu County in Runan Commandery. He studied the "Han Poems" and the "Ouyang Book of Documents," and often taught hundreds of students. His father had served as the Prefect of Beidi Commandery, and during the Yongchu era, he was imprisoned in the county jail due to disturbances caused by the Qiang people, eventually dying there. Liao Fu, fearing to die like his father due to official duties, chose to distance himself from official positions. After completing his mourning period, he lamented, "My father once said: 'Which is more important, reputation or life?' How could I prioritize reputation!" He then decided to stay away from worldly affairs, focusing on studying classics, especially mastering astronomy, divination, observing celestial phenomena, and calculating fortunes. Despite numerous invitations from local authorities, he consistently refused. When questioned about calamities, he remained silent.
This person, knowing about the famine that year, took out thousands of bushels of grain and distributed them all to his relatives, and even buried those who died of the plague and had not been buried yet. He always lived near the ancestral tomb and never entered the city. When the local prefect went to visit him—who had once been his student before taking office as prefect—he sent someone to pay him student-like respects before officially taking office. He also wanted to promote his family members, but Liao Fu firmly refused. People referred to him as Mr. Beiguo. He passed away peacefully at home at the age of eighty. He had two sons, named Mengju and Weiju, both of whom gained considerable renown.
Next, let's discuss Zhe Xiang, whose courtesy name was Ziboshi, hailing from Luoxian in Guanghan. His ancestor, Zhang Jiang, was granted the title of Marquis Zhe, and his great-grandson Guo became the Prefect of Yulin. Later, they relocated to Guanghan, where they adopted the surname Zhe. Guo had a son named Xiang. The Guo family possessed assets totaling two hundred million and had eight hundred servants. From a young age, Xiang displayed a kind heart, sparing insects and avoiding the breaking of young shoots. He was well-versed in the Book of Changes and had a deep appreciation for the teachings of Huang-Lao. After his father passed away, he came to understand that possessing a skill was more valuable than inherited wealth, so he distributed all his gold and silver to relatives and friends. Some urged him to save more for his three sons, two daughters, and many grandchildren, but he replied that according to Daoist beliefs, accumulating wealth across generations would invite disaster. He believed that wealth without virtue was a great misfortune. Although he was wealthy, his sons lacked ambition. Wise men admired his actions.
Foreseeing his imminent death, he invited guests and relatives for a farewell meal, after which he passed away unexpectedly at the age of eighty-four. He left no wealth behind, and his sons, as he had foreseen, proved to be lacking in ambition.
Finally, let's turn our attention to Fan Ying, whose courtesy name was Jiqi, from Luyang in Nanyang. He studied in the regions of Sui, Tang, and Song, mastering both the Book of Changes and the Five Classics. He excelled in wind observation, astrological studies, and the interpretation of the River Map, Luo Shu, and the seven-star constellations to forecast disasters. He lived in seclusion south of Hushan, attracting seekers of wisdom from all over. Despite receiving numerous invitations from local officials and recommendations from the court, he consistently declined all official positions.
Once, a fierce storm swept in from the west. Fan Ying told his students, "There will be a big fire in Chengdu." After saying this, he rinsed his mouth with water from the west side and had the students write down the date and time. Later, a guest from Chengdu confirmed, "Indeed, there was a major fire that day. Suddenly, a black cloud appeared from the east, and it started raining heavily, extinguishing the fire." So people all over praised his skills.
At the beginning of the reign of Emperor Huan of Han, he was summoned to be a doctor. In the first year of Jianguang, the emperor issued a decree to send a carriage with a letter to summon him and his fellow county mates Kong Qiao, Li Bing, Lang Zong from Beihai, Yang Lun from Chenliu, and Wang Fu from Dongping, but only Lang Zong and Yang Lun arrived in Luoyang; the other four did not show up.
In the second year of Yongjian, Emperor Shun used grand ceremonies and a red carriage to summon him, but he firmly declined, claiming he was gravely ill. So the emperor issued a harsh reprimand to the local authorities and sent people with a carriage to take him to the capital. He had no choice but to go to the capital, but insisted he was too ill to get up. The emperor had him carried into the palace, but he still refused to follow the rituals. The emperor was very angry and said to him, "I can let you live, and I can also kill you; I can give you an official position, and I can also take it away; I can make you rich, and I can also make you poor. Why do you disobey my orders like this?" He replied, "I only accept the orders of heaven. How long I live is up to fate, and death is not in my hands; it is all fate. How can Your Majesty decide whether I live or die! I regard a tyrant as an enemy; I feel unwilling even standing in front of him. How can I be trusted again? Even if I wear coarse cloth and live in a simple house, I can still find contentment; I do not envy the emperor's lofty status. How can Your Majesty make me an official? How can you make me fall from grace? I refuse to accept any dishonorable salary; even if it were ten thousand coins, I would refuse it. As long as I can stay true to my aspirations, even simple food and drink will suffice for me. How can Your Majesty make me rich or poor!"
The emperor could not make him submit, but admired his reputation and allowed him to leave the palace to recuperate at the imperial physician's, sending sheep and wine every month. In the third month of the fourth year of Yongjian, the emperor set up an altar and banquet for him, with officials escorting him in, presenting him with a few staffs, treating him with the etiquette of a teacher, and inquiring about the gains and losses of his country. He felt he could not refuse and accepted the position of General of the Five Officials. Several months later, he reported that he was seriously ill, and the emperor issued a decree appointing him as a Grand Master of Splendor and allowing him to return home to recuperate. He also ordered the local authorities to give him a thousand hu of grain, a cow in August every year, and three hu of wine; if he unfortunately passed away, sacrificial offerings from the central government would be used to honor him. He declined the appointment, and the emperor issued another decree urging him, but he still refused. When he was first summoned by imperial decree, everyone thought he would not change his aspirations, but when he later responded to the emperor, there were no clever strategies or profound tactics, disappointing many. Initially, Zhang Kai from Henan was also summoned with him, and later said to him, "There are two paths in the world, serving in office and living in seclusion. I used to think that you would serve in office to assist the ruler and help the people. However, from the beginning, you adopted a defiant attitude towards the emperor; when you held titles and rewards, I did not hear of any methods you had to save the country, and there was no justification for your actions." Fan Ying was especially skilled in divination; whenever the court encountered disasters or anomalies, the emperor immediately issued a decree to ask him if he could predict the outcome of the changes, and many of his predictions proved accurate.
Initially, Fan Ying wrote a book called "Yi Zhangju," which became known as Fan's scholarship. He employed the techniques of diagrams and text to teach his students. Chen Shi, a young man from Yingchuan, studied under Fan Ying. Once, when Chen Shi fell ill, his wife sent a servant to check on Fan Ying, and surprisingly, Fan Ying got out of bed to return the visit. Chen Shi found this odd and asked him why. Fan Ying said, "My dear, she is my colleague; we participate in rituals together, so I must reciprocate." He showed such respect and care for his wife. When he was in his seventies, Fan Ying passed away peacefully at home.
During the reign of Emperor Ling of Han, Sun Ling secured the position of Minister of Works through flattery of the eunuchs. Xi Xun, hailing from Chen County, studied and carried on Fan Ying's teachings, and eventually attained the rank of Palace Attendant.
It is said that we can gain some insight into the romantic affairs of the so-called literati of the Han Dynasty. Although their behavior is sometimes licentious and at other times restrained, their actions are often questionable. They pay great attention to personal cultivation and external image, relying on certain Taoist practices to enhance their reputation. In fact, they do not truly understand the strategies of governing the country or contribute to national affairs. Individuals like Fan Ying and Yang Hou were treated by the court as if they were immortals, but upon their arrival, they made no significant contributions. Fan Ying was the most renowned yet also the most criticized. Li Gu, Zhu Mu, and others believed that these recluses were just bluffing and were of no real benefit to the country, which is why they said so. However, later scholars followed them to seek fame, and rulers treated them with respect to win people's hearts. The apparent uselessness of these literati proved to be their strength, ultimately rendering their supposed usefulness meaningless. What does this imply? Those magnificent articles are sometimes of no use; those studies based on ritual and music are sometimes out of place. Their tendency to embellish their words and promote certain ideals leads the uninformed to follow them blindly. Is this not because their knowledge is profound and rarely applied, contradicting the actual situation? Some people do not do practical things, boast about useless merits, and even ridicule and belittle profound knowledge and outstanding talents, believing that brute force and deception can save the country during a crisis, simple laws can bring peace and prosperity, wisdom lies in suspicion and calculation, and the truth lies in laws and regulations. Even if they could save the world for generations, wouldn't they still be akin to barbarians? As Mencius once stated, "Using the rituals of the Xia Dynasty to change the barbarians, have you ever heard of using barbarian rituals to transform the Xia Dynasty?" Let alone those that have yet to be realized!
