Gao Yun, styled Bo Gong, was from Bohai County in Hebei. His grandfather Gao Tai is mentioned in the biography of his uncle Gao Hu. His father Gao Tao was known for his good looks and exceptional talents from a young age, earning the respect of Feng Yi and Ya Xiang from the same county. He served as the Grand Commandant under Murong Chui. Later, when the founding emperor pacified Zhongshan, he appointed Gao Tao as the Minister of Military Affairs. Gao Tao died young. Gao Yun lost his father at a young age, but he was mature and level-headed, with great foresight. Cui Xuanbo from Qinghe admired him greatly after meeting him, exclaiming, "A child of the Gao family is like yellow jade, warm and gentle within, and shining brightly on the outside; he is destined to become a great person in the future, though I fear I may not live to see that day." When Gao Yun was in his teens, he returned to his hometown of Bohai County to take care of his grandfather's funeral arrangements, dividing the family assets among his two younger brothers, and then he became a monk, taking the Dharma name Fa Jing. Not long after, he returned to secular life.
Gao Yun had a particular fondness for literature, often carrying a book bag on his back to study far and wide. He was well-versed in classics, history, various texts, astronomy, geography, and fortune-telling, excelling in all, especially the "Spring and Autumn Annals of Gongyang." Later, he was summoned by Bohai County to take up a position as a clerk. In the third year of the Shenwu era, the Emperor's maternal uncle, Duke Du Chao of Yangping, served as the General of the Southern Expedition, stationed in Ye City, and appointed Gao Yun as a Gentleman-in-Attendance. By that time, Gao Yun was already over forty years old. In the spring, there were many backlogged cases of prisoners from various states that had not yet been adjudicated. Du Chao sent a report to the court, requesting Gao Yun and Gentleman-in-Attendance Lu Xi and others to go to various states to review the cases together. Lu Xi and others were punished for corruption and bribery, while only Gao Yun was recognized for his integrity and fairness.
After returning from Ye City, Gao Yun returned to his hometown to teach, where he had over a thousand students. In the fourth year of the Shenwu period, Gao Yun was summoned by the court along with Lu Xuan and others and was appointed as a Scholar of the Central Secretariat. He was later promoted to Deputy Minister and, together with Zhang Wei from Taiyuan, simultaneously served as an Attendant to General Wei and Prince Fan of Le'an. Prince Fan of Le'an was the favored younger brother of Emperor Shizu and was stationed in Chang'an at that time. While in Chang'an, Gao Yun offered him considerable assistance and advice, which earned him praise from the people of Chang'an. Shortly thereafter, the court recalled Gao Yun. Gao Yun once wrote a poem called "The Old Man of the Frontier," which reflected on life, encompassing both joy and sorrow, as well as gain and loss. Later, General of Cavalry, Prince Le Ping, of the Western Expedition, summoned Gao Yun to participate in military actions in his capacity as Deputy Minister, an event recorded in the "Bi Zhuan" chronicles. After the pacification of Liangzhou, due to Gao Yun's military achievements, the court conferred upon him the title of Viscount of Wenyang and promoted him to General of Jianwu. The Emperor approved my collaboration with Minister Cui Hao to compile the "National Records," allowing me to serve as Authorial Clerk, maintaining my original office. At that time, Cui Hao assembled a group of astronomy experts to meticulously verify the records of solar eclipses, lunar eclipses, and the movements of the five planets since the reign of Emperor Yuan of Han, correcting errors identified in earlier historical records, and also developed a new calendar for the Wei dynasty to present to the Emperor.
The emperor said, "Astronomy and calendars cannot be spoken in simple terms! Before talking about distant matters, we must first verify the more immediate matters. Moreover, in the first year of the Han Dynasty, in October, five stars gathered in the Eastern Well, which is a clear error in the calendar. Now you criticize the historical records of the Han Dynasty, but have not discovered this error; I fear that future generations will judge us just as we judge the historical records of the Han Dynasty." Cui Hao asked, "What is the error you mentioned?" The emperor said, "According to the 'Star Manual,' Venus and Mercury always follow the sun. In October, the sun is between the Tail and the Dipper constellations, setting in the southwest in the evening, while the Dongjing star (the Room constellation) rises in the northeast. How could Venus and Mercury be moving in opposition to the sun? This is because the historians, in order to embellish the event, did not calculate it according to reason." Cui Hao said, "What can't be changed? Why only doubt the gathering of three stars and wonder about the movement of Venus and Mercury?" The emperor said, "This shouldn't be debated lightly; it should be carefully examined." At that time, everyone present felt strange, only the Royal Tutor You Ya of the Eastern Palace said, "Mr. Gao Yun is proficient in astronomy and calendars; he should not be wrong." More than a year later, Cui Hao said to the emperor, "I did not study carefully the things I said before. Later, after careful examination, it was indeed as you said: in March, the five stars gathered in the Eastern Well, not in October." He said to You Ya again, "Mr. Gao Yun's expertise in astronomy and calendars is truly remarkable!" Everyone admired him greatly. Although the emperor was proficient in astronomy and calendars, he never actively calculated the stars, only occasionally sharing his thoughts. Only You Ya frequently asked the emperor about disasters, and the emperor said, "The ancients said that it is difficult to know these things, and knowing them may leak out, so why bother knowing them at all? There are countless wonders in the world; why insist on asking about this?" You Ya never asked again.
I was appointed as the teacher to King Qin. Later, the emperor ordered me to instruct Emperor Gongzong, and he held me in high regard. Afterwards, the emperor commanded me to collaborate with the officials Gongsun Zhi, Li Xu, and Hu Fanghui to revise the laws. Emperor Shizu often discussed matters of criminal law with me, and he appreciated my opinions. One time, the emperor asked me, "What is the most important aspect of handling state affairs?" At that time, the court had prohibited the buying and selling of many valuable farmlands, and there were many idlers in the capital. I said, "I hail from a humble background and have only knowledge of agriculture, so please allow me to talk about agriculture. The ancients said: 'In a square li of land, there are three hundred seventy acres; in a hundred li of land, there are thirty-seven thousand acres.' If farmed diligently, each acre can yield three dou more grain; if not, each acre will yield three dou less. The fluctuation of grain yield across a hundred li of land could reach two hundred twenty-two thousand dou, let alone the entire country! If both the court and the populace have grain reserves, even in times of famine, what is there to worry about?" Emperor Shizu agreed with my viewpoint. Thus, he lifted the ban on land and distributed the land to the common people.
Next, Cui Hao recommended dozens of individuals from the five provinces of Jizhou, Dingzhou, Xiangzhou, Youzhou, and Bingzhou to serve as governors. Emperor Gongzong said to Cui Hao, "The people you recommended before were also selected from the states and have been in their positions for a long time without receiving recognition for their contributions. Now, we can initially assign those previously recommended to local areas as county officials, and use the newly recommended people to replace them as court officials and clerks. Additionally, the governors and county magistrates who manage the common people should also be rotated." Cui Hao vehemently opposed this and dismissed those individuals. After hearing about this, I remarked to the Eastern Palace scholar, Guan Tian, "Cui Hao is likely to find himself in hot water! He is solely focused on bragging about his accomplishments to the emperor; how can he expect to succeed like this?"
Zhai Heizi, the Duke of Liaodong, was highly favored by Emperor Shizu and was dispatched to Bingzhou on official duty. He accepted a thousand pieces of cloth as a bribe, which was later uncovered. Zhai Heizi asked me what I should do: "Should I speak the truth to the Emperor, or should I conceal it?" I said, "As a favorite of the Emperor, you should speak the truth to the Emperor. And since you admitted your mistake voluntarily, the consequences shouldn't be too harsh." However, Cui Lan, Gongsun Zhi, and others all said that the truth should be concealed, as the consequences of telling the truth were unpredictable. Zhai Heizi believed that he had a good rapport with Cui Lan and the others and became angry with me, saying, "By your logic, you are deliberately letting me die; how can you be so unrighteous!" He then severed ties with me. Because he did not tell the truth, Zhai Heizi was eventually alienated by Emperor Shizu and was executed.
At that time, the historians Min Zhan and Qi Piao, who were especially good at flattering, were trying to curry favor with Ma Hao. They saw Ma Hao's annotations of the "Book of Songs," "Analects," "Book of Documents," and "Book of Changes," and quickly submitted a petition to the Emperor, saying that Ma Rong, Zheng Xuan, Wang Su, and Jia Kui, although they had also annotated the "Six Classics," had made numerous errors and were greatly inferior to Ma Hao's annotations. They requested that all other versions of the "Six Classics" nationwide be confiscated and placed in the Imperial Library. Subsequently, an edict was issued for the entire nation to study Ma Hao's annotations. They also requested the Emperor to have Ma Hao annotate the "Book of Rites" so that future generations could access the accurate interpretations. Ma Hao also recommended Min Zhan for his writing talent.
Min Zhan then advised Ma Hao to inscribe the national history he had written on stone, so that it would be passed down through the ages, to showcase Ma Hao's integrity in historical writing. Upon hearing this, the Emperor said to the Historian Zong Qin, "The things that Min Zhan has done might appear trivial, but they might bring disaster to the Cui family for generations! We upright people really have no place in this world!" Not long after, trouble soon followed.
At the beginning, Gao Yun was arrested because of Cui Hao and was detained in Zhongshu Province. Emperor Gongzong sent Wu Yan, the Zhongshu Shilang, to bring Gao Yun out and even allowed him to stay in the palace overnight. The next day, Emperor Gongzong went to report to Emperor Taizu and requested that Gao Yun be allowed to ride in his carriage into the palace. Upon arriving at the palace gate, Gongzong said to Gao Yun, “When we go in to see the emperor, I will take you in. If the emperor asks you anything, just say what I tell you.” Gao Yun asked, “What is it about?” Gongzong replied, “You will know when you go in.”
Upon entering the palace and meeting the emperor, Gongzong said, “Zhongshu Shilang Gao Yun has been in my palace for several years now; he is cautious and careful, and I know him well. Although he worked with Cui Hao, Gao Yun’s position is low, and many things were directed by Cui Hao. I respectfully request the emperor to spare his life.” Emperor Taizu called Gao Yun over and asked him, “Did Cui Hao write all the ‘National Documents’?” Gao Yun replied, “The ‘Records of Taizu’ were written by the former author Lang Deng Yuan. The ‘Records of the Late Emperor’ and the ‘Current Records’ were written by Cui Hao and me together, but Cui Hao held more responsibility, mainly overseeing the planning. As for the annotations and explanations, I did more than Cui Hao.”
Hearing this, Emperor Taizu became furious and said, “This is even more serious than Cui Hao; how can you still be alive?” Gongzong said, “The emperor’s majesty is awe-inspiring; Gao Yun is just a minor official who spoke carelessly in a moment of confusion. I asked him before, and he said all of this was written by Cui Hao.” Emperor Taizu asked, “Did the Eastern Palace say the same?” Gao Yun said, “I am of low ability, yet I participated in compiling the national history, committing a serious act of treason; logically, my family should be exterminated. I am already prepared to die and dare not lie. Your Highness requested the emperor to spare my life because I have served as a lecturer for many years. If the emperor had not asked me, I would not have said this. Everything I said is the truth; I do not dare to hide anything.”
Emperor Taizu said to Emperor Gongzong, "He truly is a paragon of integrity! It is very difficult to achieve this in human relationships, remaining steadfast in his words even on his deathbed, which is even more commendable! Moreover, he speaks the truth to the emperor; he is indeed a loyal minister. Speaking like this, even if he suffers, he should be pardoned." Ultimately, Gao Yun was pardoned. So, Emperor Taizu called Cui Hao and sent someone to interrogate him. Cui Hao was so frightened that he couldn't respond. Gao Yun then provided a clear and logical explanation.
At that time, Emperor Taizu was very angry and ordered Gao Yun to draft a decree. One hundred and twenty-eight individuals, from Cui Hao to the lowest servants, were to be exterminated. Gao Yun hesitated and refused to write; the emperor pressed him repeatedly. Gao Yun asked to see the emperor again before writing the decree. After the decree was written, Gao Yun said, "I cannot say for certain if Cui Hao has committed any other offenses. It is only because he offended Your Majesty's authority that his crime does not warrant death." Emperor Taizu, in a fit of rage, ordered his guards to apprehend Gao Yun. Emperor Gongzong knelt down to plead. Emperor Taizu said, "If this man had not hidden the truth from me, thousands of lives would have been lost!" In the end, Cui Hao was exterminated, and the rest of the people all died.
As Zong Qin awaited execution, he sighed and remarked, "Gao Yun, he is truly a saint!" The Empress said, "People must understand the situation; if you can’t read the room, what’s the point of learning? I warned you before, why didn’t you heed my advice and provoke the emperor like that? Every time I think about it, my heart races with fear."
Yun replied, "As a simple country person, I never intended to become an official. When the emperor granted a general amnesty and the court began selecting talents, I came to the capital city. I even participated in the compilation of the national history, enjoying wealth and honor I did not deserve, and hindering others for a long time. Those historical records are the true accounts of the emperors and they serve as warnings for future generations. People today can learn about the past from them, and future generations can learn about the present. Therefore, every word and action of an emperor must be recorded in detail, which means that anyone who becomes an emperor must be cautious! However, I have been favored by the emperor and enjoyed a fleeting moment of great glory, yet I have let down his kindness and have made a fool of myself. Even regarding Hao, there are aspects worth discussing. Hao, while of only average ability, carries significant responsibilities. In the court, he lacked the courage to speak frankly, and after retiring, he failed to uphold a reputation for integrity. His private desires clouded his impartiality, and his likes and dislikes obscured his righteousness; this is Hao's failing. As for his recording of the court's daily affairs and discussing the gains and losses of the nation, this can be seen as a key aspect of historical records, and it cannot be said to be a major mistake. However, I went through those experiences with Hao, sharing in life and death, honor and disgrace; we should have shared both joys and sorrows. Owing to your great kindness, if I were to seek survival against my true will, that would not be my intention." The queen was deeply moved by this and praised him repeatedly. Later, Yun told others, "The reason I did not follow the Crown Princess's instructions was that I was afraid of letting down Zhai Heizi (referring to the Crown Prince)."
Toward the end of Emperor Gongzong's reign, he enjoyed being close to those around him and was busy cultivating fields, hoping to profit from it. Yunjian advised him, saying: "Heaven and Earth do not favor the private, which is why they can sustain all things; a ruler does not favor the private, which is why he can protect the people. In the past, those wise rulers governed the world with an attitude of utmost fairness and selflessness, hiding gold in the mountains and pearls in the deep sea, showing their selflessness to the world and teaching the people to be diligent and frugal. As a result, their good reputation spread far and wide and has endured through the ages. Now, Your Highness is the heir apparent of the country, and the people look up to you as a role model. Your words and actions are a model for the world, yet you are busy cultivating private fields, raising chickens and dogs, and even engaging in trade, competing with petty merchants for small profits. This kind of talk is already circulating and can’t be hidden. The world is yours; you hold the wealth of the entire nation. What do you desire that you cannot have? What do you want that you cannot achieve? Yet you compete with those small merchants for trivial gains! In the past, when the State of Guo was about to perish, heaven still sent down miracles, granting them land and property, yet they still perished. Emperor Ling of Han did not value the identity of a ruler, preferring to set up stalls and do business with palace maids, secretly accumulating wealth for the sake of small profits, which ultimately led to the downfall of the state. The lessons of history are truly alarming! As a ruler, it's crucial to be careful about whom you surround yourself with. The Book of Documents says: 'Do not associate with petty individuals.' Confucius's father also said: When petty individuals are close, they become unruly; when they are distant, they hold resentment. King Wu greatly valued Duke Zhou, Duke Zhao, Duke Tai of Qi, and Duke Bi, which is why he was able to achieve dominance; King Zhou of Yin favored Fei Lian and E Lai, which is why he lost the country. Looking at the rise and fall throughout history, there isn’t a single case that doesn’t reflect this principle. Currently, the Eastern Palace indeed lacks talent, but there are still many excellent individuals. Those recently serving you may not be the best choices in the court. Therefore, I hope you’ll consider my humble advice, remove those treacherous and petty people, get close to loyal and virtuous ministers, distribute the land to the needy, and handle the livestock and goods promptly. In this way, your good reputation will spread day by day, and those rumors will naturally disappear." Emperor Gongzong did not heed his advice.
Yun Jian's words were quite to the point. He started from the greater good of heaven, earth, and kings, then provided historical references, and finally related them to Emperor Gongzong's current situation to propose specific suggestions. He emphasized the importance of selflessness in a ruler and the caution in choosing those around him. He did not directly accuse Emperor Gongzong but rather gently advised him, hoping that he might amend his errors. Unfortunately, Emperor Gongzong did not heed his advice. It truly is a case of "past experiences serve as lessons for the future," but sadly, Emperor Gongzong did not learn from history. "Heaven and earth are selfless, allowing them to support all; a ruler must be selfless to nurture all," this couplet summarizes it well and expresses the fundamental principle of being a ruler. "Do not approach small men," this warning from the "Book of Shang" is also a point for deep reflection for all in power. I hope Emperor Gongzong can stop before it’s too late; otherwise, the repercussions could be dire!
When Emperor Gaozong passed away, Gao Yun didn't visit the new emperor Shizu for quite a while. Later, when Shizu summoned him, Gao Yun started crying as he stepped onto the stairs; he couldn't stop crying. Shizu himself also shed tears, and then he let Gao Yun leave. The onlookers were confused and began to whisper among themselves, "Why is Gao Yun crying so sadly that he even made the emperor cry? What’s going on?"
When Shizu heard these discussions, he called them over and asked, "Do you not know why Gao Yun is crying?" The people replied, "We only saw Gao Yun crying silently, and Your Majesty, you were also saddened, so we were just talking among ourselves." Shizu said, "When Cui Hao was killed, Gao Yun should have died with him; it was the Crown Prince who pleaded for his life, which is why he was spared. Now that the Crown Prince is gone, Gao Yun sees me and remembers this matter, and that’s why he’s crying."
Gao Yun later submitted a memorial, saying, "Your Majesty, previously you ordered me to collect and organize records on astronomical anomalies to link these events, making them easier to understand. I understand that Jizi authored 'Hong Fan' drawing on historical experience, and Confucius compiled historical materials to write 'Spring and Autumn', all to clarify the rise and fall of emperors throughout history, as well as the will of Heaven. Therefore, we must first analyze good and evil, then use disasters to verify; we must base our analysis on gains and losses, then use blessings and misfortunes to confirm. Although heaven and man are far apart, retribution comes as quickly as lightning, which is indeed terrifying! Since ancient times, emperors have attached great importance to these rules and used them for self-reflection. Later historians also record these events as a warning. During the reign of Emperor Cheng of the Han Dynasty, the Grand Master Liu Xiang saw that the national fortune of the Han Dynasty was about to decline, power was held by the court officials, and he repeatedly warned, but no one listened. So he wrote annotations based on the records of disasters and retributions in 'Hong Fan' and 'Spring and Autumn', hoping to warn the emperor, but in the end, no one paid attention, and the Han Dynasty perished, which is indeed lamentable!
I hope Your Majesty is wise and far-sighted, able to study history seriously, follow the experiences and lessons of predecessors, carefully analyze past events, and achieve what previous emperors could not. My knowledge is shallow and my experience is limited, so I am afraid I may not be of much help to you; I can only strive to fulfill your wishes. Now, I have extracted the key points and simplified the text in accordance with the contents of 'Hong Fan Chuan' and 'Tian Wen Zhi', writing a total of eight articles." After reading it, the Emperor was very satisfied and said, "Gao Yun's understanding of disasters is no worse than that of Cui Hao!" Later, when Emperor Gaozong ascended to the throne, Gao Yun also participated in some planning. Minister Lu Li and others were rewarded handsomely as a result, but Gao Yun received nothing, and he never spoke of this matter for the rest of his life. His loyalty and humility exemplified this perfectly.
Guo Shanming, an exceptionally clever man who enjoys showcasing his talents, advised Emperor Gaozong to initiate large-scale construction projects to build palaces. After listening to him, Emperor Gaozong agreed. Guo Shanming then said, "I heard that the founding emperor only began building the capital after conquering the world. When he built palaces, he only used idle farming time and never built recklessly. Our country has been established for a long time now; the existing palaces are sufficient, the Yong'an Hall can accommodate envoys from various countries, the West Hall greenhouse is adequate for the emperor's residence, and the Purple Tower has a broad view of the surroundings. If we intend to undertake large-scale construction and build grand palaces, we should proceed gradually and avoid haste. It is estimated that cutting down trees, transporting soil, and other tasks would require twenty thousand people, plus the common people responsible for logistics, totaling forty thousand people, taking half a year to complete. As the ancients said: if a person does not farm, they may go hungry; if a woman does not weave, she may suffer from the cold. Not to mention tens of thousands of people, the potential losses would be even more significant. This has been the truth from ancient times to the present. Your Majesty should consider this carefully." Emperor Gaozong listened to his words. Guo Shanming also felt that Emperor Gaozong inherited a peaceful era, but social customs had not changed, with weddings, funerals, and marriages not following ancient rituals. He advised again: the previous dynasty repeatedly issued decrees prohibiting music at weddings, funerals, and marriages, as well as singing, dancing, slaughtering animals, cremation, etc. These were all strictly prohibited. Although these laws have been in place for a long time, customs have remained unchanged. This is because those in power have failed to adhere to them, so the common people have become accustomed to it, leading to the current situation. In the past, King Wen of Zhou only governed a hundred miles, but he was able to cultivate his character, manage his family, govern the nation, and bring peace to the world. He began with his wife and brothers, influencing the entire country in the end, taking two-thirds of the world. Therefore, those in power should start with themselves. As stated in the Book of Songs: "If you set a good example, the people will follow suit." As an emperor, one must be cautious in every word and action.
The Book of Rites says: In the house where the daughter is married, the lights must stay lit for three days; in the house where the groom is welcomed, there is no music for three days. Now when you princes marry, you all let the musicians perform songs and dances to liven up the atmosphere, but you explicitly prohibit common people from playing music at weddings and funerals, which is incredibly unfair! Marriages in ancient times were taken very seriously! You had to carefully choose women of high virtue and integrity. You had to first ask the matchmaker to arrange the marriage, then send dowry, invite relatives and friends to witness, personally drive to pick up the bride, and the ceremonies were elaborate and grand. Marriage was not an easy matter! But now, the emperor's fifteen-year-old sons are randomly assigned wives, and they live separately. Some of these wives have a significant age difference, and some are even women who have fallen from grace in the palace, yet they are married to the princes as concubines. This is not only disrespectful but utterly unacceptable! Both then and now, there have been many petitions and accusations about this. In the end, these princes have stirred up so much trouble due to their wives' fading beauty and affection. Nowadays, most of the princes marry women from the palace, yet they demand that the common people strictly adhere to marriage customs, which is a double standard!
All things go through birth, aging, illness, and death. In ancient times, wise rulers established rituals and systems to regulate people's experiences of life and death, to align with human sentiments. If the living's lives are sacrificed for the dead, that is something the sages would forbid! However, a funeral is simply about burying the dead; since they can no longer be seen, they should be buried properly. In the past, Emperor Yao was buried in the valley forest, and farmers continued to cultivate the land as usual; Emperor Shun was buried in Cangwu, and the market operated as normal. The case of Qin Shi Huang was different; he built a luxurious tomb, with a subterranean palace reaching three levels underground, filled with countless treasures of gold and silver. As a result, shortly after his death, the tomb was looted, and his body was burned. This clearly shows the contrast between the simplicity of Yao and Shun and the extravagance of Qin Shi Huang; the right and wrong are evident. Nowadays, when the state conducts funerals, the expenses are enormous, and ultimately, it all just ends up in ashes. Even if these costs are for the benefit of the deceased, weren't ancient officials doing the same? The emperor continues to do so while forbidding the common people from doing the same; this is another difference.
In ancient sacrificial rites, it was essential to set up the spirit tablet of the deceased, arranged by generation, giving the deceased a place of honor, so that the sacrificial rituals could take place. Nowadays, when someone dies, a look-alike is found to take their place, acting as parents and being close like spouses; this is a serious decline in social morals and a violation of sacred rituals—there is nothing more excessive than this! The emperor does not prohibit it, and the common people do not change; this is the fourth difference.
Sacrifices are meant to regulate rituals and educate the populace, which is why the sage kings placed great importance on them. During sacrifices, even if the wine cups are full, they do not drink; even if the dishes are abundant, they do not eat; if the music is not elegant, it is not played; if the offerings are not of proper color, they are not used. Today’s large banquets are mixed with guests inside and out, drunken and noisy, with no sense of ritual whatsoever. Furthermore, there are crude tricks and performances that offend people's sensibilities. The court has grown used to this and yet they still expect the common people to maintain a clean social atmosphere; this is the fifth difference.
Now, Your Majesty, you are the last emperor in hundreds of years, inheriting the chaos of the Jin Dynasty, yet failing to implement decisive reforms to revive the declining social morals. I fear that the common people may never witness the teachings of propriety again. Alas, this is no exaggeration! Emperor Gaozong listened calmly. If someone said something that displeased him, the emperor would have the guards take that person away. If something was inconvenient, Gao Yun would request an audience, and Emperor Gaozong, understanding Gao Yun's meaning, would dismiss those around him to give them privacy. The emperor held Gao Yun in high regard, who would come to the palace in the morning and leave at night, sometimes staying in the palace for several days, while the court officials were left in the dark about their discussions.
Some ministers submitted memorials discussing the gains and losses of the country. Gaozong said to the ministers, "The relationship between ruler and subject is like that of father and son. If a father makes a mistake, why wouldn't the son advise him face to face and make his mistake known to everyone, instead of secretly concealing it at home? Is it because he fears offending his father or that his mistakes will be exposed? Now, whether the country is good or bad, you cannot offer advice face to face or write memorials with straightforward suggestions; isn't this just a way to cover up the monarch's shortcomings while highlighting your own virtues? It is people like Gao Yun who are the true loyal ministers! If I have done something wrong, he always points it out frankly and openly, even if I don't want to hear it; he always speaks frankly and openly. I am aware of his mistakes, but the world does not know that he advised me; isn't that loyalty? You all serve by my side, but I have never heard a word of straightforward advice, only seeking promotions when I am pleased. You stand by my side with bows and arrows, merely putting in effort, yet you all hold high positions. While this person uses a pen to rectify the country, yet he remains just a low-ranking official. Aren't you ashamed?" Therefore, Gaozong appointed Gao Yun as the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat, allowing him to continue his work. Minister Lu Li said, "Although Gao Yun is favored, his family is very poor, wearing coarse clothes, and his wife and children do not have a good life." Gaozong angrily said, "Why didn't you say this earlier! Now that I value him, you say he is poor." That day, the emperor went to Gao Yun's house, only to see a few thatched cottages, covered with coarse blankets, wearing old clothes, with only salt and vegetables in the kitchen. Gaozong sighed, "The poverty of the ancients was only like this!" Therefore, the emperor rewarded him with five hundred rolls of silk, one thousand bushels of grain, and made his eldest son Gao Chen the General of Suiyuan and Prefect of Changle. Gao Yun repeatedly refused in his memorials, but Gaozong did not agree. Many who fought alongside Gao Yun became high officials and were granted titles as marquises; even more than a hundred of Gao Yun's subordinates became governors and officials of two thousand stones, while Gao Yun remained a low-ranking official for twenty-seven years without any change in his position. At that time, officials received no salaries, so Gao Yun often sent his sons to chop firewood in the mountains to make ends meet.
At the beginning, Minister Dou Jin was beheaded for committing a crime, and his son Dou Zun hid in the mountains while his mother, Lady Jiao, was captured and forced to serve as a servant in the county office. Later, Lady Jiao was released when she grew old, but none of Dou Jin's friends offered her any help. Gao Yun, feeling sorry for her in her old age, allowed her to live in his home. After six years, Dou Zun was pardoned. Gao Yun was quite a decent fellow, wasn't he? Later, Gao Yun was promoted and became the Minister of Rites, but retained his previous title. He also wrote an essay called "On Names," which subtly critiqued the political situation, similar to previous essays that criticized the court, such as "On the Two Capitals." The details of his arguments were not elaborated upon in the text. At that time, the Doctor of the Imperial Secretariat, Suo Chang, was embroiled in a heated debate with Deputy Minister Fu Mo and Liang Zuo about the fortune associated with names. Gao Yun wrote an essay to address their concerns, offering substantial evidence and sound reasoning. He continued as the Secretary Supervisor, stepped down from his role as Minister of Rites, was bestowed the title of Marquis of Liangcheng, and was additionally appointed as Left General.
In the beginning, Gao Yun, You Ya, and Zhang Wei from Taiyuan were classmates and friends. You Ya once commented on Gao Yun, saying, "As human beings, experiencing joy and anger is completely normal; no one can escape it. However, historical texts describe Zhuo Gong as generous and broad-minded, something that those with a narrow perspective might find hard to believe. Having known Gao Yun for forty years, I've never seen him angry or unhappy—doesn't that speak volumes? Gao Yun possesses an inner refinement and outer gentleness, often speaking hesitantly; I frequently call him 'Wenzi.' Cui Gong once remarked, 'Gao Yun is exceptionally talented and knowledgeable—a rare gem—but he could use a bit more backbone.' I feel the same way. The incident involving the demotion of the Minister of Works started as a small matter but later escalated to the emperor, causing Cui Gong to be so frightened that he lost his voice, unable to speak, while those below Chong Qin were so scared that they were sweating profusely and their faces turned pale. Only Gao Yun articulated the details of the matter clearly, outlining what was right and wrong with a strong, powerful voice. The emperor was moved by him, and the audience erupted in applause. Gao Yun always considered his colleagues, looking out for everyone—that is true character! Chong Ai relied on his power to intimidate the world. He once summoned all officials to the palace for a meeting, and everyone below the princes had to bow in the courtyard, but only Gao Yun walked up the steps and saluted with cupped hands. This shows that Ji Changru could lounge at home and still meet Wei Qing; such etiquette is trivial! Isn't that what true character is all about? Understanding a person is not easy, and being understood by others is also not easy. I haven't truly understood Gao Yun, and Cui Gong hasn't seen him clearly either. Zhong Ziqi only appreciated Bo Ya's music, and Bao Shuzi only understood Guan Zhong; there's a reason for that." This is how everyone viewed Gao Yun. Emperor Gaozong held him in high regard, never calling him by name, always respectfully referring to him as "Ling Gong." The title "Ling Gong" has become well-known throughout the country.
After Emperor Gaozong passed away, Emperor Xianzu was still quite young and lacked political experience. Yi Hun wielded power to seize control and create chaos, plotting to harm the country. Empress Dowager Wenming had him executed and summoned Lord Ling to the palace to take part in state affairs.
The Empress Dowager also issued a decree asking Lord Ling: "Since the previous dynasty, schools have not been properly established in a long time. Over time, Confucianism has declined, and scholars lamenting and neglecting their studies has returned. Now that I have inherited the throne and the world is peaceful, I have examined the ancient texts and wish to establish schools in various prefectures and states to provide a place for those who wish to learn. You are a renowned Confucian scholar and a senior official of the court, renowned for your virtue and integrity. You should discuss this with the Zhongshu Province and Menxia Secretariat, and then share your thoughts with me."
The Duke presented his case, stating: "I have heard that governing a country requires a strong emphasis on education; for a nation to prosper, it must also rely on culture and morality. Therefore, the Book of Songs of the Zhou Dynasty records the Bi Yong, and the Songs from the State of Lu records the Pan Palace. Since the Yongjia period, the previous systems have disappeared. The refined melodies of the Book of Songs are no longer heard in the countryside, and the capital has also stopped the ceremonies honoring the sages. Confucianism has been in decline for one hundred and fifty years. The emperors of the previous dynasty also contemplated restoring the old systems and promoting virtuous customs, but due to numerous issues, they were unable to achieve this. Your Majesty, you are both wise and valiant, with remarkable achievements, and the world is at peace, with all officials performing their duties. You have inherited the intentions of your ancestors to restore the educational system of the Zhou Dynasty, and you have issued this order to reform education. All officials and common people across the country are pleased. In accordance with your command, together with the Central Secretariat and the Ministry of Rites, I have consulted historical texts and carefully studied the previous systems, aiming to promote Confucianism and prioritize education. I have thoroughly considered your sacred edict, which aligns with ancient principles. In accordance with your will, schools should be established to transform customs. Let the teachings of the former kings be revived in the present; let the prosperity of Confucianism spread throughout the world. I suggest: for large counties, establish two doctors, four teaching assistants, and one hundred students; for medium-sized counties, establish two doctors, two teaching assistants, and eighty students; for medium-small counties, establish one doctor, two teaching assistants, and sixty students; for small counties, establish one doctor, one teaching assistant, and forty students. Doctors should be chosen from those who are well-versed in the classics, of noble character, and able to serve as role models, with an age of over forty; the criteria for teaching assistants are the same as those for doctors, with an age of over thirty; if someone is young yet possesses significant knowledge and teaching capability, age should not be a factor. Students should be chosen based on their good reputations in the county, upright character, and ability to uphold Confucian teachings, first selecting those from prestigious families, followed by those who have passed the imperial examinations."
Emperor Xianzu accepted his suggestion. The establishment of schools in the regions began at that time. As he grew older and his health worsened, he repeatedly petitioned the court for retirement, but the emperor refused. With no other choice, he composed a poem titled "Retirement Poem." He also remembered his former comrades who had gone to battle together, most of whom were no longer alive, which filled him with sorrow, so he wrote an essay entitled "Ode to the Warriors." This essay primarily recounts the experiences of those who were ordered to go to war, omitting those who did not. Below, I will provide a brief introduction to these individuals' circumstances:
Minister of the Imperial Secretariat, Marquis of Gu'an, Lu Xuanzi Zhen; County Chief Clerk, Shi Boling, Cui Chuo Maozu; Prefect of Henei, Marquis of Lower Music, Guangning Yan Chongxuan Lue; Prefect of Shangdang, Marquis of Gaoyi, Guangning Changzheng Gongshan; General of the Southern Campaign, Attendant, Bohai Gao Bi Zi Yi; General of the Southern Campaign, Attendant, Bohai Li Qin Dao Ci; Prefect of Hexi, Raoyang Xu Kan Zu Gen; Zhongshu Lang, Marquis of Xinfeng, Jingzhao Du Quan Shiheng; General of the Western Expedition, Attendant, Jingzhao Wei Lang Yougui; Prefect of Jingzhao, Li Shen of Zhao Jun; Scholar of Taichang, Duke of Julu, Li Ling of Zhao Jun; Zhongshu Langzhong, Ji Qiuzi, Li Xia Zhongxi of Zhao Jun; Prefect of Yingzhou, Duke of Jian'an, Zhang Chuan Zhongye of Taiyuan; General of the State, Attendant, Fan Yang Zu Mai; General of the Eastern Expedition, Attendant, Fan Yang Zu Kan Shilun; Prefect of Dongjun, Liu Ce of Puxian Zi Zhongshan; Prefect of Puyang, Xu Chen of Zhen Ding Zi Changshan; Acting Inspector of the Sili, Marquis of Xidu, Song Xuan Dao Mao; Zhongshu Lang, Liu Xia of Yan Jun; Zhongshu Lang, Xing Ying of Hejian, Wu Heng Zi Zongjing; Prefect of Cangshui, Gao Ji of Bohai, Shumin; Prefect of Taiping, Li Xi of Pingyuan Zi Yanmen, Shiyuan; Superintendent of the Secretariat, Duke of Liang Jun, You Yabo Du; Chief of the Court, Ancestor of Cui Jianxing of Boling, Prince of Anping; Prefect of Guangping, Song Yin of Xihe, Marquis of Lieren; County Chief Clerk, Pan Tianfu of Chang Le; County Chief Clerk, Du Xi of Chang Le; General of the Eastern Expedition, Attendant, Zhang Gang of Zhongshan; Zhongshu Lang, Zhang Dan of Shanggu, Shushu; Secretary Lang, Wang Daoya of Yanmen; Secretary Lang, Min Bi of Yanmen; General of the Imperial Guard, Attendant, Lang Miao of Zhongshan; Grand General, Attendant, Marquis of Shanggu, Hou Bian; Prefect of Chenliu, Lü Jicai of Gaoyi Zi Zhao Jun.
These were all notable figures at the time, and he recorded their names and official positions. You see, the people on this list held various official positions and came from different places, showing that he had quite a circle of acquaintances at the time. This piece can be seen as a reflection on his past experiences, expressing his nostalgia for old friends.
Throughout the ages, emperors have relied on a large number of talented individuals to govern the country and make it prosperous. Just like how King Wen of Zhou relied on numerous wise men to stabilize the realm, Emperor Wu of Han also strengthened the country with many talented individuals. These are all recorded in historical books and are timeless truths that have remained unchanged for thousands of years.
Since Emperor Taizu (referring to Emperor Xiaowen of Wei, Tuoba Hong) of the Wei Dynasty, the realm has enjoyed peace, quelling the rebellions of the Huns over several generations, subduing the ruthless bandits, defeating the Jiang-Chu region in the south, and pacifying the Liangzhou region in the west. Even distant ethnic groups came to pledge their allegiance. As a result, the Wei Dynasty put an end to its military campaigns and began to develop culture and education, recruiting talents to participate in state affairs discussions.
The emperor was constantly on the lookout for talented individuals, sought information far and wide, consulting all the court officials, hoping to find esteemed scholars. In the end, everyone recommended forty-two people, including Lu Xuan of Fanyang, all of whom came from prestigious families, held important positions in prefectures and counties, and had high reputations. The emperor personally issued a decree summoning Lu Xuan and the others, keeping official positions open for them and offering high-ranking roles with generous salaries to entice them. In the end, thirty-five people accepted the court's offers, while the remaining individuals recommended by various prefectures and counties were even more numerous and countless.
For a time, the court was filled with talents, truly an extraordinary sight! I was also called up by the court alongside them back then. Some of them later held important positions in the court, while others gathered privately to discuss national affairs and enjoyed some leisure time together. Those were truly unforgettable times!
However, time flies and circumstances change. Most of the people who were summoned together back then have now passed away. The few of us who are still alive are all old and frail. The joyous laughter of the past has now turned into sorrow and grief. My friend Zhang Zhongye was sent to Yingzhou and hasn't returned for a long time. I wanted to catch up with him before he returned, to see him one last time before he departed this life, to express my feelings for him in his twilight years. But unexpectedly, he passed away.
Now, the people in the court are all officials who were promoted later, and the people in the countryside are no longer the same as those from back then. I come and go from the court without any close friends to confide in, feeling an immense sense of loneliness and sadness. Looking at my increasingly aging body, I can't help but sigh deeply.
Writing a eulogy is meant to praise those who have made significant contributions, and it can also be a way to express one's feelings. I haven't written anything for twenty years, but this feeling has lingered in my heart, and I simply cannot remain silent. Thus, I wrote this piece to express my feelings, as follows:
Purple energy rises to the heavens, and heroes are in disarray this summer. Wang Xi leads the expedition, and the war chariots are frequently driven. Sweeping away the wandering atmosphere, cutting down the demon tyrants, the four seas follow the wind, and the eight regions gradually transform. Governance and education are not separate; they are both peaceful and unified. Disarmament and military withdrawal, only culture is to be cherished. The emperor seeks out talent, searching for the virtuous and the extraordinary, with hidden talents coming forth.
Lu Sheng, from a young age, had lofty ambitions, pure thoughts, and diligently studied knowledge, being upright and benevolent. Later, he was summoned to the court as an official, leaving behind rural life to enter the court, presenting good strategies every day. He rode from the east to the south, driving a cart, traveling to various places to establish connections for the court and promote marriage alliances.
Lu Sheng's ancestors were solitary and impoverished, having been far removed from prosperity since childhood. He practiced self-discipline and selflessness, striving to bring glory to his family. He studied the "Six Classics" earnestly, delving into poetry and prose, ultimately rejecting the court's favor to uphold his integrity.
Mr. Lu, Yan, and Chang share a deep friendship. They are of noble character, never coveting positions, only seeking a stable life. They are humble, eager to help others, love talented individuals, and admire the ancients, yearning to learn like a thirsty traveler.
Mr. Lu's younger brother, Lu Ziyi, has great ambitions and a profound understanding of principles. The two brothers encourage each other, sharing a bond like brothers, harmonious like a qin and se. They both served in the shogunate, renowned for their good character, and lived their lives steadily, finding solace in this stability.
The Lu family, benefiting from their ancestors' virtues and their own efforts, received the court's favor and assistance from friends. Although their accomplishments were established later, their salaries were received early, and their status ranked alongside veteran officials, parallel to their peers.
Lu Shiheng is upright and open-hearted, never speaking boastfully and never forgetting old friends. Though from a poor background, he speaks philosophically and is a true pillar of the nation.
Several brothers of the Lu family uphold noble virtues, adhere to principles, and discard trivial disputes. Although they live in chaotic times and wander far and wide, they maintain their noble character, remaining steadfast even in the face of princes and high officials.
The Zhao region is rich in talent, producing many outstanding individuals, and the mountains and rivers have nurtured the three Lu brothers. They possess noble character and dignified demeanor, quietly gathering strength like a concealed dragon, waiting for the right moment to soar. Lu Shen once served as the governor of Xijing, and Lu Ling wrote their biographies. Their teachings spread in the palace, and their principles are as ethereal as clouds and mist. Although Lu Xi passed away young, he also served in the Langshu and left a significant mark.
Lu Zhongye was erudite and virtuous, upholding ancient traditions and well-versed in laws and regulations. In times of national crisis, he maintained his noble integrity, uniting people with a heart of benevolence and teaching his subordinates with a spirit of filial respect. His influence spread throughout Longchuan, and the common people all respected him.
Lu Mai and Lu Kan were both exceptional talents, with widespread reputations, aspiring to benefit the world rather than seeking personal gain. Unfortunately, they were not given the chance to serve, and their talents went unutilized.
Liu and Xu were loyal and dedicated, serving the court with unwavering dedication. They were capable of diplomatic missions as well as offering strategies in court. Through one diplomatic mission, they quelled the rebellion in Yan, gaining renown in Wei and achieving notable success.
Dao Mao was exceptionally gifted from a young age, gaining widespread fame at a young age. He treated friends sincerely and handled matters with integrity. The brothers lived harmoniously, and the family atmosphere was harmonious, with a reputation that spread widely and remarkable talent. He had served in the court and held office in the capital, enforcing the law fairly and achieving notable political results.
He was humble and insightful, with elegant and refined thoughts, acting with spontaneity, and his achievements were genuine. He did not boast about his status nor was he ashamed of his origins, ultimately resigning from a prominent official position to return to rural life.
People admired him, praising him as one of the "Four Talents." His writing was exquisite, and his reputation was widespread. He once fell seriously ill and composed poetry to express his condition, filled with loyalty and integrity, with profound truths embedded in the verses.
He had a broad mind and extensive knowledge, able to grasp new ideas and deeply resonate with them. His character was as valuable as the He Shi Bi, and his writings were like finely crafted dragon patterns. He shone in the capital, returning home in triumph.
Mr. Shi Yuan awakened early, never misled, and came to the court to assist the king. He was upright, adhered to the law, and was a man of high moral character, with conduct and demeanor that were impeccable.
Confucius praised You Xia, the Han Dynasty praised Yuan Yun, and Bo Du surpassed his peers, standing out. He once served in the Secret Pavilion and was also the pastoral official in the He Fen region, changing customs and practices, resolving disputes, mediating conflicts, and spreading advanced culture, allowing hidden talents to emerge, distinguishing Confucian thought from other schools of thought.
The two wise men, Cui and Song, were naturally outstanding, rising from the common people to fame across the world. They were upright, virtuous, and accomplished yet unassuming, plain yet remarkable.
Pan Fu valued frugality, while Du Xi cherished harmony; they were honest and upright, not mingling with the secular world. They stayed away from centers of power, only taking on ordinary official positions, and although they remained unnoticed, they were even more distinguished; though they suffered losses, they gained much more.
Zhang Gang was humble, and Shu Shu was upright; they were noble in character and profound in knowledge. They emerged from ordinary positions to ultimately achieve remarkable success, diligently pursuing learning without seeking pleasure. They adhered to propriety, treated others with kindness, never counted gains and losses, and did not show their feelings outwardly.
Lang Miao was newly promoted, and his abilities had already been validated; his intelligence was sufficient to handle various affairs, and his words were enough to govern the country. He followed the trends of the times, reacting swiftly to matters; how is he different from people today or those from ancient times?
Some people are blinded by interests, some are deceived by fine wine, but Hou Sheng maintained his integrity, prioritizing righteousness above all. Even when drinking daily, he remained respectful and courteous; even at home, he was as cautious as in a public court.
As for Ji Cai, he was gentle yet competitive. After arriving in Southern Qin, he fully showcased his talents, making significant contributions to the nation. He was adept at using strategies to lure the enemy and corrected bad practices with his upright character, allowing the emperor's benevolent governance to be smoothly implemented, ushering in peace and prosperity in the border regions.
Those talented virtuous men, demonstrating their talents across different eras, all dedicated themselves to their responsibilities and fully showcased their abilities. Ji Cai, adorned with a pair of jade pendants at his waist, enjoyed immense success and left a legacy that would endure for a thousand years. Harmony between ruler and subject is difficult to achieve, but due to the emperor's appointment, Ji Cai's career was able to develop smoothly. He took off his official robes, relaxed both mind and body, reminisced about the past, overwhelmed by a flood of emotions, the joy of the past standing in stark contrast to the present separation of life and death. Quietly recalling the past, his heart weighed down by unbearable grief, he picked up his brush and composed a eulogy, expressing endless sorrow.
During the reign of Emperor Xingnian, the emperor ordered him to also serve as the Grand Minister and travel to Yanzhou to perform sacrifices at the Confucian Temple. The emperor said to him, "This exemplifies simplicity and benevolence; do not decline." Later, Ji Cai followed the revered Xianzu in the northern expedition, achieving a great victory. Upon his triumphant return to Wuchuan Town, he presented a poem of praise, which included the following verses:
"Oh, Emperor, the heavens have decreed, bestowing virtue and granting the mandate to Wei, illuminating all nations. The rites are profoundly integrated, the king's plans are assured, tranquility and chaos are governed by might, and the people are guided by rules. The northern invaders were once subordinate, their governance in the hands of foreign powers; seizing the opportunity, they fled to the northern frontiers. The hereditary evil path, betraying loyalty and breaking promises, attracts the fallen and gathers thieves; there are indeed many vile characters. Those who dare to lead the weak and the foolish, plotting to act recklessly, are hence ordered to train the troops, raising arms for a northern expedition. Riding horses and carrying provisions, like stars and lightning, we attack the devout Liu, deploying axes and halberds. The axes and halberds are momentarily displayed, cutting down their troops, piling corpses in the valleys, rivers of blood flowing. The original culprit, the fox spirit, escapes, feigning rest in a poor dwelling; their claws and fangs have been crushed, and their will is also thwarted. The loyalty and integrity of Zhou, preserved and practiced, is reverently wise, possessing both beauty and virtue. The grace envelops the capital, imparting this benevolent decree, sealing the corpses of the wild and granting life and death with favor. Life and death are blessed, the people rejoice in nurturing, principles penetrate the dark and mysterious, and grace gradually spreads across different regions. Things return to their sincerity, the gods offer their blessings, from near and far, all hearts are united. In ancient times, they spoke of good soldiers, achieving victory through time; now we also employ troops, but the time is not yet right. The six armies unite, all nations cooperate, righteousness is recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals, achievements are inscribed in jade tablets, carrying forth the praises of our achievements, passing them down through the ages." After reading this, Emperor Xianzu was very appreciative. Emperor Xianzu was not feeling well; considering that Emperor Gaozu was still young, he wanted to pass the throne to Prince Jingzhao, so he summoned the ministers and asked for their opinions one by one. Yun Jin knelt down, crying, and said, "I dare not say much, fearing to disturb Your Majesty's rest; I only hope Your Majesty can think of the heavy responsibility entrusted by the ancestors and think of the story of Duke Zhou assisting King Cheng." After hearing this, Emperor Xianzu passed the throne to Emperor Gaozu and awarded him one thousand bolts of silk, commending his loyalty and integrity. Afterwards, Yun Jin was promoted to the position of Director of the Central Secretariat and granted the title of Cavalry Attendant.
Although he was responsible for compiling historical records for a long time, he could not focus solely on writing and often worked with Liu Mo, the proofreader, to revise and polish the texts. Generally, he continued the work of Cui Hao, making occasional modifications and corrections in line with the style of the "Spring and Autumn Annals." From Emperor Gaozong to Emperor Xianzu, most of the court's military and state documents were written by Yun Jin. In his later years, he recommended Gao Lu as his successor. Because he had made notable contributions regarding the succession to the throne, he was granted the title of Duke of Xianyang and appointed as General of the Eastern Garrison.
Later, he was appointed as Envoy with Special Mandate, Attendant, General of the Western Expedition, and Governor of Huai Prefecture. In the autumn, Yun Jin inspected his jurisdiction to learn about the people's hardships. Upon arriving in Shao County, he saw that the Shao Gong Temple was in ruins and remarked, "The merits of Shao Gong are unrecognized, and if good deeds are not honored, what hope do good people have?" He then submitted a request to the court for funds to repair the Shao Gong Temple. By that time, Yun Jin was nearly ninety, yet he continued to encourage the people to study hard, and his teachings had a significant impact. However, the Confucian scholars were complacent and did not take the handling of state affairs seriously. Later, during the Zhengguang era, Zhong Shushi Chen Jing, a mid-ranking official from Henan, reminisced about Yun Jin and led the elders of the county to build a shrine in his honor south of Ye Wang, erecting a monument to commemorate his contributions.
In the second year of Taihe, he requested to return to his hometown to retire because of his old age, submitting over ten memorials, but the emperor never granted approval. So, he claimed illness as a reason to resign and return home. In the same year, the court issued an edict welcoming Yun Jin with a ceremonial carriage, ordering various states and counties to provide an escort for him. Upon arriving in the capital, the emperor wanted to confer upon him the title of Grand General of the Army and also appoint him as the Director of the Central Secretariat. Yun Jin firmly declined, but the emperor insisted. The emperor then helped him into the palace and asked him to revise the "Imperial Edict." Yun Jin also presented an essay titled "On Wine," which included the following content:
The emperor ordered me to write an article about the harms of alcohol throughout history, called "Alcohol Discipline." I am old now, almost forgotten by people; I did not expect the emperor to still value me so much when I am about to die, granting me such a great favor, which truly honors and surprises me! After receiving the imperial decree, I felt both excitement and fear, not knowing how to repay the emperor's kindness!
Your Majesty, you are wise and mighty, governing the entire country; and Your benevolent Empress Dowager is kind and loving, blessing the people of the world. Everyone appreciates your grace. Yet, despite your busy schedule, you remain concerned for the nation and its people, constantly reflecting on history as a warning. Your genuine heart can move heaven and earth, let alone us ordinary people who are your subjects! Filled with excitement, I did my utmost to write this "Alcohol Discipline." However, my abilities are limited, and I have been out of practice for many years, resulting in an article that is rough and crude, and truly not presentable.
I humbly ask Your Majesty to understand my sincerity and forgive my ignorance! The article reads:
(Original poem should be inserted here, no translation required)
In ancient times, wise and virtuous emperors, when holding banquets, served fine wine in the main hall while coarse wine was reserved for below. This was done to honor the fundamentals and emphasize the source, paying attention to the hierarchy and taste of drinking. Even if they indulged a bit more, it did not lead to chaos. Thus, they could maintain solemn etiquette and unwavering respect, and after completing the task, their appearance and behavior remained dignified. Without this, they would lose their very humanity; how could they guide the era and educate the people, setting a good example for future generations?
Looking at the rise and fall of dynasties in history, one can see that both fortune and misfortune lie in our own hands, not in the hands of fate. King Zhou of Shang was consumed by wine and lust, which led to the downfall of the Shang Dynasty; the Duke of Zhou established a system of rituals, leading to the prosperity of the Zhou Dynasty. Zi Chan succumbed to alcoholism, while Mu Sheng chose to abstain from alcohol, earning him a lasting legacy. Some individuals serve as warnings for future generations because of their alcohol abuse, while others are remembered for their abstinence. The nature of alcohol is to easily confuse the mind and change one's character. Even the wise and clever are not immune to its effects. Officials may neglect their duties, subordinates may ignore orders, intelligent individuals may overlook important information, and even mild-mannered individuals may become quarrelsome. If these behaviors persist, it can lead to illness and even endanger one's life. As the saying goes, "The benefits are as small as a hair, but the harm is as sharp as a knife." The dangers of drinking are significant, which can lead to early death, mental instability, and a host of other negative consequences. Don't let excessive drinking ruin your health, don't lose friends and colleagues due to drunkenness, and avoid contributing to chaos and disorder in the nation. If we don't learn from the teachings of wise figures and adhere to rules, how can we expect good results? As the Book of Songs reminds us, "As cutting and as filing, as polishing and as grinding," friends should help each other grow and support one another.
Officials should use self-discipline to regulate themselves and use decrees to prohibit excessive drinking; this is the principle of governance. If what others say is right, they should think it over repeatedly and study seriously; if what others say is wrong, they should understand their difficulties and be tolerant. This is an important strategy for ancient sage kings to govern the country. During the time of the Jin State in the past, many scholars and officials behaved improperly, indulged recklessly in wine and women, regarded drunkenness as a noble behavior, and even used poems praising wine to show off to each other. They also claimed that even in the times of Yao and Shun, they drank a lot of wine, using the behavior of sages to justify their own mistakes—how is that even possible? Moreover, Zisi once said: Confucius could not even drink a liter of wine. By analogy, those who say that Yao and Shun drank thousands of cups are false.
Now it is the Great Wei Dynasty; the emperor is both wise and strong, governing the world, and the people are all living in peace and contentment, with harmony throughout the four seas. The Empress Dowager is highly respected, tirelessly teaching the younger generation; she worries about the country and the people, and her teachings spread throughout the world. That's why she can coordinate with the Yin and Yang of heaven and earth, and her merits are as vast as heaven and earth. The emperor's grace is vast; no one dares to disobey, and the entire nation enjoys the emperor's favor. The ministers and ambitious scholars in the court should cultivate their character, stay true to the right path, and uphold their integrity. They should control their drinking, take virtue as the criterion, understand the harm of excessive drinking, and recognize the benefits of caution. They should be filial to their parents, honor their ancestors, learn from the outstanding virtues of the sages, and pass on their love and compassion to future generations. They should repay the emperor's grace and maintain this achievement. Shouldn't they strive to work hard?
Emperor Gaozu held him in high regard and often kept him close.
The emperor allowed him to enter the palace in a carriage to pay homage, without kneeling or bowing. The following year, the emperor permitted him to participate in the formulation of laws and regulations. Although he was nearly a hundred years old, his ambition and insight remained undiminished. He still focused on his old profession, diligently studying history books. The emperor decreed, "As he is old and living in poverty, let the music troupe send ten musicians to his home every five days to bring him joy." The emperor also specially rewarded him with a Sichuan ox, a four-wheeled Sichuan carriage, a plain cane, and a Sichuan knife. He also rewarded him with delicacies, which were sent every spring and autumn. Later, he ordered that meals be sent to him every morning and evening, beef and wine on the first and fifteenth of each month, and silk fabrics for clothing every month. He generously shared these rewards with his family and friends. At that time, the homes of the high-ranking officials were filled with many children of officials, but none of Yun's children held official positions. He remained incorruptible and unassuming. Later, he was promoted to the position of Minister, and the emperor frequently summoned him, arranging tables and chairs for discussions on significant political matters. Ten years later, he was further honored with the title of Grand Master of Splendor and awarded a gold seal and purple ribbon. His opinions were sought on all major matters in the court.
In the early days of the Wei Dynasty, the laws were very strict, and many officials were punished with caning. However, this old Mr. Yun had served five emperors, worked in the three most important departments of the imperial court, and held office for fifty to sixty years without making a single mistake. Initially, when Emperor Zhen was faced with many difficult cases, he had the Ministry of Justice use Confucian classics to solve these complex issues. Mr. Yun, relying on his expertise in the law, presided over cases for more than thirty years and was praised both within the court and beyond for his fairness and integrity.
Mr. Yun often said that the trial of cases is a matter of life and death for the common people, so he often reflected: "Gao Yao, such a morally upright person, had descendants Ying and Liao who died early; in the time of Liu Bang and Xiang Yu, powerful figures like Ying Bu ended up being tattooed and exiled, yet eventually became kings. Even those who have held court positions for a long time cannot escape making mistakes. How much less can ordinary people guarantee that they have never made a mistake in their lives?"
In April, the emperor was to go to the western outskirts for a sacrifice and ordered a royal carriage to fetch Mr. Yun to the suburban palace to watch the ceremony. As a result, the carriage suddenly got spooked and ran wildly, overturning, and Mr. Yun's eyebrows were cut in three places. Emperor Gaozu and Empress Dowager Wen both sent people to deliver medicine and medical care, and often sent people to visit him. The official responsible for driving the carriage faced severe punishment, but Mr. Yun insisted he was fine and requested the emperor to forgive him. Previously, the emperor had also sent the palace attendant Su Xingshou to assist Mr. Yun, and once in the snow, a dog suddenly jumped out and startled Su Xingshou, who was quite startled at the time. Mr. Yun quickly reassured him and specifically asked him not to mention this incident to the emperor. Su Xingshou said he had served Mr. Yun for three years and had never seen him lose his temper; he always taught others gently and never grew tired of it. Mr. Yun was devoted to his studies day and night, composing poetry and essays, honoring his parents, respecting his elders, treating others with humility, and being open to advice. Although he held a high position and wielded great power, his lifestyle was simple and frugal, just like that of the common people. He loved music, and whenever performers sang and danced, he would always applaud enthusiastically. He sincerely practiced Buddhism and Taoism, often hosting vegetarian meals and lectures, valuing life and abhorring violence. He was very simple in character, not making friends casually.
After Emperor Xianzu pacified Qingqi, he relocated the local people to Dadi (now around Datong, Shanxi). At that time, many scholars were displaced to far-off places, and most of them faced severe shortages of food and supplies. Among those who were relocated, many were Mr. Yun's relatives and friends. They all walked to Mr. Yun's home. Mr. Yun offered all his savings to help them and personally checked in on them, which deeply touched everyone with his kindness. He also recognized their talents, brought them to the attention of the court, and recommended them for official positions. Some people at the time thought these newcomers weren't worth employing, but Mr. Yun argued they should be appointed based on their abilities and shouldn't be discriminated against. Previously, Mr. Yun had been called to Fangshan to write a poem, and he was still in good spirits and spoke clearly about the past. In the first month of the eleventh year of his reign, Mr. Yun passed away at ninety-eight.
At the beginning, Wang Yun often told others: "When I was an official in Zhongshu Sheng, I performed many good deeds and saved many lives. If heaven is fair and just, I should be able to live to be a hundred years old!" Soon after, he began to feel a little unwell. But he still did not sleep, called for the doctor to get medicine, went about his business, and continued to compose poems as usual. When Emperor Gaozu and Empress Dowager Wenming heard about it, they sent the imperial physician Li Xiu to see him. Li Xiu came back and said he was fine. Li Xiu actually privately told the emperor that Wang Yun's physical condition was not quite right, and he might not live long. So the emperor sent many imperial delicacies, from wine and rice to salted sauces and vinegar, over a hundred kinds, all the freshest, as well as beds, clothes, bedding, canes, etc., all placed in the courtyard. Court officials came in droves to pay their respects. Wang Yun was so happy that he beamed with joy, telling others: "The emperor has been very gracious to me, rewarding me with so many things, enough for me to treat guests to a meal!" He was simply grateful and had no other thoughts. After a few days passed like this, he passed away in the dead of night, and his family did not notice at all. The court ordered to reward him with a thousand bolts of silk, two thousand bolts of cloth, five hundred catties of cotton, fifty bolts of satin, a hundred bolts of multicolored silk, and a thousand hu of grain for his funeral arrangements. Since the establishment of the Wei Dynasty, no one has received so many rewards after death, showing the court's esteem for him. When it was time for the burial, the court posthumously conferred upon him the titles of Palace Attendant, Minister of Works, and Governor of Jizhou. His titles of General and Duke were also preserved, and he was posthumously named "Wen," and given a set of mourning clothes. The poems, essays, elegies, panegyrics, maxims, discourses, memorials, and eulogies that Wang Yun composed, as well as the annotations of the "Zuo Zhuan," "Gongyang Zhuan," and "Guliang Zhuan," and works such as "Corrections to the Book of Songs," "Miscellaneous Interpretations," and "Discussion on the He, Zheng, Gao, and Huang Incidents," totaled more than a hundred pieces, and were compiled into collections that have been passed down through the ages. Wang Yun was also proficient in mathematics and wrote three volumes on Arithmetic. His son, Wang Chen, succeeded him in his titles.
Wang Chen, whose courtesy name was Shihe, due to his father's accomplishments, was appointed as the General of Suiyuan and the Governor of Changle. He ruled with kindness and compassion, and the people lived in peace and contentment. Later, his title was reduced to Marquis. Shortly thereafter, he passed away. His grandson Wang Guibin inherited his title and was appointed as the Provincial Administrator, and he died while still in office.
Wang Chen's younger brother Wang Huai, courtesy name Shiren, once served as the Chief of the City of Wangyun and as a Colonel in the Grand General's staff, later being granted the position of Zhongsan Dafu. He was unconcerned with fame and fortune, not pursuing worldly gains, and held the position of Zhongsan Dafu for eighteen years without any change in rank. During the Taihe era, he was appointed as a military advisor to the Grand Minister of War, Prince Dongyang, and soon after, he passed away.
Zichuo, styled Sengyu, lost his parents when he was young, but he was very mature for his age and managed to live well on his own. He was tall, over eight feet tall and with a waist as wide as ten spans, and he had a dignified demeanor and was well-read, familiar with classical texts. In the fifteenth year of Taihe, he was appointed as a military officer in the Ministry of Justice, and was later appointed as a Lang in the Ministry of Rites. Following his mother's death, he resigned from his post. After some time, he was appointed as an Imperial Secretary for Document Editing and later transferred to Luoyang to serve as a county magistrate. Zichuo was known for his integrity and was unafraid of high-ranking officials, and the common people of Luoyang held him in high regard. He was later summoned by the court to help revise the laws. He was subsequently promoted to the position of Doctor of the National University and also acted as an agent for Yingchuan County. The court granted him the authority of a temporary festival and appointed him as the Inspector of Jingzhou. In the early years of Yanchang, he was promoted to Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Rites and took part in revising the Rinzhi Calendar. In the early years of Suzong, he served as the Marshal and Champion under Prince Qinghe Yi, and was later promoted to Marshal alongside Prince Qinghe. In the autumn of that year, a rebellion broke out, and General Yuan Yao led troops to suppress it. The court appointed Zichuo as an Imperial Attendant with military duties, entrusted him with a military token, and sent him with a white tiger flag to comfort the soldiers. Zichuo was well-respected in the area, and many rebels surrendered. After the war ended, the court appointed him as the Prefect of Jiji County, but he firmly refused. Later, the Imperial Censor Yuan Kuang accused Gao Cong and Zichuo of colluding with Gao Zhao, and the court pardoned them. Shortly after, he was later appointed as the Prefect of Xingyang County, and later promoted to Inspector of Yuzhou. During his tenure in Yuzhou, he achieved great success by suppressing the powerful and supporting the weak, and the people held him in great affection and respect, with over two thousand refugee households relocating to Yuzhou. He was subsequently promoted to General of the Rear and Inspector of Bingzhou. In the winter of the third year of Zhengguang, he suddenly fell ill and died at the age of forty-eight. In September of the fourth year of Zhengguang, the court posthumously appointed him as General of Andong and Inspector of Jizhou, and he was posthumously honored with the title "Jian."
Zibing, styled Zhongzhang, once served as the acting military advisor to the Grand General and gradually rose to the position of General of the Expeditionary Forces and Chief of Staff. Unfortunately, he passed away at a young age.
Zichuo's younger brother, Zipu, styled Zhongrang, with the childhood name Tanyue, became famous early on. During the Taiyan era, he was appointed as an envoy to the south for his outstanding performance. He was recommended for his exceptional talent and was further appointed as a Cavalry Attendant, sent as an envoy to Liu Yilong in the south. Southerners praised his talent and eloquence. Unfortunately, he fell ill and passed away in Jianye. The court mourned him deeply. After his death, the court posthumously conferred upon him the title of General of National Defense and the position of Lord of Linyi, with the posthumous name "Gong," and granted him ceremonial clothing for his burial. Zichuo wrote a eulogy for him.
Zipu's younger brother, Zixie, styled Jihe, with the childhood name Chunyuan, also had literary skills. Emperor Shizong summoned him several times, but he declined each time, citing illness. He often mocked Zichuo for navigating the ups and downs of officialdom for many years, constantly busy in the capital, while he himself remained leisurely at home. Although he was once offered the position of chief clerk by the state, he ultimately passed away.
Sun Shibin initially served as a military advisor to Wang Yu in Jizhou, as a court attendant. Later, when Wang Yu rebelled, Sun Shibin fled back to the capital. Subsequently, he was appointed as the Sima of Annam Prefecture in Qingzhou. During the Yongxi era, he was promoted to the position of General of Champions and served as a middle-ranking official in the Secretary of State's office.
In the era of Emperor Shi, Sun Shibin, his uncle Sun Ji, his cousin Sun Pi, and Li Jin, a fellow from the same county, were all summoned to serve as officials in the court. Sun Ji, also known as Shumin, first served as an official in the Imperial Secretariat, and later became the teacher of the King of Chu. During the reign of Emperor Zhenjun, Sun Ji was appointed as a Minister of the Imperial Secretariat, bestowed the title of Fuyangzi, and sent as an envoy to Liu Yilong. When Emperor Sizhu was stationed in Linjiang, Sun Ji was appointed as the Prefect of Xuyi, and later promoted directly to General of the Mounted Troops. Shortly after, he was transferred to serve as the Prefect of Cangshui. Eventually, Sun Ji passed away at the age of sixty-seven. The court posthumously appointed him as General Who Maintains Distant Frontiers and Governor of Jizhou, and posthumously honored him with the title "Xuan." His son Sun Jiao inherited his title. After Sun Jiao's passing, his son Sun Shi inherited the title.
Sun Shi, styled Xiaoze, was a knowledgeable person. He served as the Minister of Ceremonies, the Prince's Attendant, the Chief Clerk of the Ministry of Personnel, and later was promoted to the Supervisor of the Imperial Stable and Regular Attendant. He continued to be promoted and ultimately rose to the position of Minister of Works, and even acted as the administrator of Jingzhou. Following his death, the court posthumously appointed him as General of the Dragon Cavalry and Governor of Hezhou. His son Sun Huanren inherited his title.
Sun Heren, styled Deshu, after inheriting his title, initially served as an official in the Imperial Guard and later became an inspector in the palace. He was known for his simplicity and literary talent, having once written a five-character poem for Lu Zhongxuan, an official under the Grand Commandant, who praised the poem highly. Sun Heren always had lofty ambitions and was later appointed as a military advisor in Luozhou, but he did not take up the position; instead, he retreated to Bailu Mountain in Jijun to live in seclusion and live on herbal medicine. He passed away not long after, and people at the time lamented his death. Sun Heren's younger brother, Sun Dewei, served as the steward of the Eastern Palace during the Wuding era. Sun Jiao's brother, Sun Zun, has a biography of his own. Sun Pi, styled Ziyi, was respected as an elder in his hometown and served as a mid-ranking official. Sun Dang served as a secretary, and after his death, the court posthumously awarded him the title of Governor of Yueling and conferred the posthumous name "Gong."
It is said that among the people employed by Mr. Gao Yun, there was a man named Liu Mo, from Xindu in Chang Le. When he was young, he secretly went north of the Yellow River, even reaching Henan, and then secretly returned. He had read many books and had some understanding of annotations and textual criticism. When Gao Yun became the Secretary of the Secretariat and Director of Writings, he selected Liu Mo to be a book editor. Gao Yun was compiling the "National Records," and Liu Mo collaborated with him on the writing. Gao Yun often had Liu Mo hold the pen and ink, going to the historical archives with him every day, sitting side by side. Gao Yun would dictate current events as Liu Mo took notes. At over ninety years old, Gao Yun's eyes and hands were not as capable, and many times he would have Liu Mo write while he dictated, with Liu Mo taking notes and Gao Yun revising. This continued for five or six years. Liu Mo contributed significantly to the articles and treatises written by Gao Yun. During the Taihe era, Liu Mo was promoted to Doctor of the Central Secretariat, and he was a colleague and friend of Li Biao; however, when it came to educating royal offspring and setting an example, Liu Mo fell short compared to Li Biao. Later, Liu Mo was appointed as the Inspector of Yingzhou.
When Wang Su returned to the court, he passed by Xuanhu, weary from his travels. At that time, no one recognized him except for Liu Mo, who generously offered him everything he needed and graciously welcomed him. Wang Su was very grateful to Liu Mo. When Wang Su became the governor of Yuzhou, Liu Mo was still in Yingzhou, so Wang Su showed his gratitude by appointing him as the new Governor of Xincai. Liu Mo served as Governor in Xincai and Yingzhou for a total of ten years, governing the regions with a blend of firmness and kindness. In the first year of Zhengshi, he was appointed as the governor of Chenliu. At that time, he was already over seventy years old, but he maintained a youthful demeanor and worked diligently despite his age. Later, he settled in Nanyingchuan and never went back to his hometown.
His son, Gao Huaishu, was smart and decisive, earning the affection of the people of Yingchuan. He later became a general of Xiangwei and an Imperial Attendant in the Guanjunfu. Gao Huaixun, his younger brother, was skilled in medicine and advanced to the position of Geishizhong. He eventually died while serving as the Left Army General and Zhenyuan General.
Historical records state that Mr. Gao Yun was a man of kindness and integrity, who upheld justice and moral principles. He faced danger without fear, as strong as thunder, unfazed even in the face of death, always ready to help others selflessly, and ultimately gained the appreciation of a wise ruler, ensuring his own well-being. If he did not understand human relationships and could not distinguish between poverty and wealth, how could he have accomplished all of this? That is why his family thrived for generations, and he himself lived to be a hundred years old! Since the Wei Dynasty, there have been few like him! Seng Yu was also well-known in academia, largely due to Mr. Gao Yun!
