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Written by: Realhistories

Category: Book of Zhou （周書）

Published: 09 January 2025

Created: 09 January 2025

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Shaohui Gong Hao was the older brother of Emperor Taizu. His father married a princess from the Le Lang royal family and had Shaohui Gong Hao, followed by Qi Jian Gong Lian, then Ju Zhuang Gong Luo Sheng, and finally Emperor Taizu. Hao was particularly filial; when his mother, Empress De, passed away, he was so overwhelmed with grief that he neglected the customary rites, which earned him the respect of the local community. Once, while his father was fighting with Wei Kegu at the South River in Wuchuan, he fell off his horse. Hao quickly gathered a few men to rescue him, killing dozens of enemies, causing them to flee, which allowed his father to remount and retreat. However, the enemies soon caught up, and Hao ultimately fell in battle. Later, the court posthumously honored him with titles including Grand Preceptor, Great General of the Pillar State, Grand Minister, and Grand Commander, and granted him military command over ten states, including Hengshuo, the position of Governor of Hengzhou, and conferred upon him the title of Duke of Shao, with a fief of ten thousand households, and the posthumous name Hui. Hao had three sons named Shi Fei, Dao, and Hu. Hu has a separate biography.

When Shi Fei was seventeen, his father Shaohui Gong died. Because he lost his father at such a young age, he was very sad and devotedly served his mother, earning a good reputation. Later, during the Yong'an period, when Emperor Taizu advanced into Guanzhong, Shi Fei stayed behind in Jinyang to take care of his mother. After Emperor Taizu pacified Qinzhou and Longzhou, Shi Fei was killed by Qi Shenwu. Later, the court posthumously honored him as General, Junior Grand Minister, and Grand Commander, and granted him military command in states including Jiding, the position of Governor of Jizhou, allowed him to inherit the title of Duke of Shao, and conferred upon him the posthumous title Jing. His son Zhou inherited the title of Duke of Shao.

Zhou lost his parents and became an orphan at a young age and came from a poor family, but he was very talented. When his father, Duke Jing, was murdered, he escaped disaster by hiding in the silk room because he was still a child. Later, the court issued an edict allowing him to inherit the title of his uncle, Duke Jin Hu. During the Tianhe era, after reconciling with the State of Qi, Zhou returned to Guanzhong. The court appointed him as Grand General, with the same rank as the Three Departments, inheriting the title of Duke of Shao. Not long after, he was promoted to Senior Minister and then again to Grand General; he was appointed Governor of Yuanzhou and later transferred to Xingzhou as Governor. During the Xiang era, when Emperor Wen of Sui was in power, Zhou responded to Wei Chi Jiong's uprising and fought against Duke Yang Su of Qinghe, but was defeated and fled, ultimately being captured at Shiji and killed, resulting in the revocation of his Duke of Shao title.

Hui, whose courtesy name was Qianren, loved to study from a young age and was both intelligent and clever. In the second year of Emperor Wei Gong, he was granted the title of Duke of Jiangling for his role in pacifying Jiangling. By the Baoding era, he inherited the title of Duke Jing. He was later appointed as General of the Cavalry, with the same rank as the Three Departments. Two years later, he served as the military commander of the six defenses of Tongguan in Puzhou and as Governor of Puzhou. After returning from the State of Qi, he was granted the title of Duke of Tan once again. Not long after, he was promoted to the rank of Pillar State. In the early years of Jiande, he was killed along with Hu. In May of the third year of his death, the court posthumously awarded him his original title.

Bodhisattva Daozi was brave and heroic in his youth, compassionate and kind-hearted, and the Emperor Taizu was very fond of him. At first, he and a few brothers were in Ge Rong's army. After Ge Rong was defeated, they moved to Jinyang. Later, Taizu followed He Ba Yue into the Pass, and Dao also went along to Guanzhong, frequently accompanying Taizu in battles. When Taizu attacked Hou Mo Chen Yue, he appointed Dao as the governor to guard Yuanzhou. After Hou Mo Chen Yue was defeated and fled north beyond the old fortress, Dao led the cavalry to pursue him, caught up with Hou Mo Chen Yue at Qiantun Mountain, killed him, and delivered his head to the capital. For his great merit, he was granted the title of Marquis of Raoyang County, with a fief consisting of five hundred households, appointed as General of Champion, and also given the position of Attendant of the Imperial Court.

When Emperor Wen of Wei ascended the throne, he promoted Cao Shuang for his great contributions, granting him a higher rank and making him a duke, bestowing upon him five hundred households as fief, and appointing him to important positions such as Envoy with Special Authority, Attendant of the Imperial Court, General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Left Minister of the Imperial Court, with each position being more prestigious than the last. Three years later, when Taizu (Cao Cao's son Cao Pi) went to the east to fight, he summoned Cao Shuang to serve as his bodyguard and made him the General of the Leading Army and Chief Governor, with his rank continuing to rise.

At that time, Qi Shenwu (referring to the Emperor Wenxuan of Northern Qi, Gao Yang) led troops across the Yellow River and reached Fengyi (present-day Dali County, Shaanxi). Taizu brought troops from Hongnong (present-day Lingbao County, Henan) into Guanzhong. Cao Shuang commanded the Imperial Bodyguard to fight against Qi Shenwu at Shayuan (south of present-day Hancheng, Shaanxi) and secured a resounding victory! After that, Cao Shuang was promoted again, his rank elevated to be equal with that of the Three Departments (Ministry of Personnel, Ministry of Rites, and Secretariat).

In the second year of his reign, Emperor Wen of Wei launched an eastern campaign and appointed Cao Shuang as the governor of Huazhou. Consequently, Zhao Qingque, Yu Fude, and Murong Siqing rebelled. Cao Shuang led his troops from Huazhou to confront them, captured Yu Fude, and killed Murong Siqing. After that, Cao Shuang stationed himself at Weiqiao and joined forces with Taizu's army. Once the rebellion was quelled, Cao Shuang was granted the title of Duke of Zhangwu; in addition to his earlier fief, he was rewarded with a total of two thousand households of land. Shortly thereafter, he was further appointed as a Palace Attendant, Grand Commandant, General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Guardian of the Crown Prince, his official rank continued to rise, and his prestige grew boundless.

Gao Zhongmi surrendered along with Beiyu, and Taizu escorted the Crown Prince of Wei on an eastern expedition, designating Cao Shuang as the Grand Commander, responsible for military affairs in Huazhou, Dongyongzhou, and other areas, while continuing to serve as the governor of Huazhou. Cao Shuang excelled at training troops and had mastered border defense strategies. Later, the army faced setbacks in battle, and the Eastern Wei army pursued them to Chousang. Knowing that Guanzhong was already prepared for defense, they retreated. At this time, Hou Jing led the people of Henan to surrender to Wei and sent a request for support. The court deliberated on whether to dispatch troops. Therefore, the court appointed Cao Shuang as Grand Commander of Longyou, responsible for military affairs across fifteen states, including Qinzhou, and also appointed him as the governor of Qinzhou.

Later, the Qi clan, known as Northern Qi, declared themselves emperors. Taizu led troops to attack them from Guanzhong, and Emperor Wen of Wei sent Prince Qi Kuozhen to defend Longyou and summoned Cao Shuang back to the court. The court appointed Cao Shuang as both Grand General and Grand Commander, responsible for military affairs across twenty-three states, including Sanyong and Erhua, and stationed him at Xianyang. When the army returned, Cao Shuang resumed his original post.

This person was broad-minded and open-minded, skilled at managing and comforting the people, and anyone who interacted with him could genuinely commit to working with him. He was very cautious and careful in his actions, always feeling that he had not done well enough. Every time Emperor Taizu went to war, he stayed behind to defend the rear, earning the deep affection of both the common people and officials, and thus the court valued him highly. In December of the first year of Emperor Wei's reign, he passed away in Shanggui at the age of forty-four. Emperor Wei sent the official Shizhong, Prince of Yuyang, to preside over his funeral, posthumously restoring him to his original official position, and additionally granting him the titles of Minister of Personnel and Governor of Qinzhou, with the posthumous title of "Filial."

In the court, everyone felt that he had made significant contributions to pacifying the Western nomads, and his prestige and benevolence were very significant. They wanted his descendants to guard Longyou for generations to honor his contributions, so he was buried in Wujingyuan, west of Shanggui City. More than ten thousand people from both the Han and Western nomadic tribes came to attend the funeral, and their mourning cries echoed to the heavens. Everyone said, "Our good official, have you abandoned us?" Adults and children spontaneously came to help pile the earth for the grave, which stood over fifty feet high and measured more than eighty paces around. They only relented when the officials arrived to stop them, crying as they bid farewell. After his death, the people's longing and affection for him were palpable. In the fifth year of Tianhe, the court posthumously conferred upon him the titles of Grand Preceptor, Pillar of the State, and Duke of Ping. He had five sons: Guang, Liang, Yi, Chun, and Zhong. Liang and Chun later moved to Qixian.

Once there was a man named Guang, style name Qiangui. In his youth, he was serious and was passionate about literature. He was initially granted the title of Duke of Yongchang. After Emperor Xiaomin ascended the throne, he was granted the title of Duke of Tianshui. When Emperor Shizong took the throne, he was appointed General of Cavalry and served as Minister of the Three Departments, and then he was sent to Qinzhou as governor. During the reign of Emperor Wu, he was promoted to General and transferred to Liangzhou as governor. Later, he was further promoted to Duke of Cai, with his fief expanded to ten thousand households. During the Baoding period, he was recalled to court to serve in a minor official capacity. Not long after, he returned to Puzhou to guard it and oversee the defense of six strategic military locations, including Tongguan. Two years later, he was again appointed as the governor of Qinzhou, commanding the military of thirteen states, while also serving as governor of Qinzhou.

This man Guang was known for his keen insight and skill in placating the common people, who respected and liked him. At that time, several sons of Duke Jin, Yuwen Hu, along with Guang's brother, Duke Qi, Yuwen Liang, lived extravagant lives, dressing extravagantly and exceeding established norms. Only Guang strictly adhered to the rites and laws of propriety, treating scholars with humility and respect, earning praise from both the court and the populace. Once, while serving Emperor Gaozu at a meal, he found a particularly delicious melon and quickly presented it to the emperor, who was delighted. Four years later, he was promoted to the title of Duke of Pillar State. Because Duke Jin, Yuwen Hu, held power for an extended period, Guang advised him to be more restrained, but Yuwen Hu did not heed his advice. In the third year of Tianhe, he was appointed as the governor of Shanzhou, but later he resigned due to illness. Subsequently, Duke Xiao posthumously conferred upon him the title of Duke of Bin, and the court issued an edict allowing him to inherit the title.

At first, Guang's mother, Lady Li, was deeply worried about Guang's long-term illness, and ultimately, her anxiety became a source of illness that led to her death. During the mourning period, Guang's sorrow deepened, and eventually, he died from excessive grief. It is said that his mother's worries caused Guang's illness, and Guang's grief led to his death; their filial piety and brotherly love were profoundly evident in their family. Emperor Gaozu himself came to pay his respects, dressed in plain attire, and all the officials gathered there. His former subordinates, such as Li Chongxin, submitted a memorial stating:

"I have come to understand that filial piety fosters loyalty, and benefiting the people is a noble act; recognizing virtue and establishing good deeds is the norm for the state. It is my private belief that the late Duke of Bin, Minister Guang, was virtuous and esteemed, admired by all, with character that surpassed that of his contemporaries, and great contributions that strengthened the court. He was commanded to go to battle, and his reputation spread far across the regions of Qin and Longyou; he led troops in war, spreading his teachings across the regions of Xiaoshan and Hangu Pass. Later, due to health issues, he returned to court at the emperor's command, and after treatment, his condition gradually improved. However, a series of misfortunes soon followed, and his heavy worries, combined with his deep emotions, aggravated his old ailment, leading to his eventual illness and death. I reflect on the past with great emotion, struggling to hold back my feelings. We, the ministers, often hear his words from when he was alive. I admired his consistent character, strict with himself, in his position as a high official, with a substantial salary, yet he utilized his salary and rewards judiciously, never leaving any surplus; he only took what he needed in terms of utensils, clothing, and entertainment. Whenever he spoke of life's beginnings and endings, he stressed the importance of simplicity. He did not approve of the luxurious system of the Qin state but praised the rituals of the Wu state; he criticized extravagant burials but supported simple ones. Now that his burial site has been chosen, it is very far from his hometown, and I genuinely fear he may never return, and his wishes cannot be fulfilled. I humbly request Your Majesty to show your unparalleled kindness, to grant grace, understand his past, and mourn his spirit. I hereby urge the appropriate authorities to honor his last wishes and ensure that the burial ceremony is conducted with utmost simplicity."

The edict says: "I've read the memorials from Chongxin and others, and I deeply feel their grief. Duke Guang of Bin is a protector of the court, a person of high virtue and reputation, a role model for the royal family, and his conduct serves as a model for scholars. He was in the prime of his life, assisting the court in governing the country, but sadly, he died young. He lived a life of honesty and always upheld his noble integrity. Thinking about his past achievements really moves me. In the past, Wang Hejian was exceptionally talented and was posthumously honored; Wang Donghai was humble and frugal and received praise after his death. You can look at past examples and follow the old customs for this matter. Let his last wishes be honored even after his death; let him conclude his life with dignity after he is gone." So, he was posthumously given back his original title and promoted to Taibao. He was buried in Longxi. The relevant departments followed the edict's wishes and kept everything simple. His son Qia inherited his title. During the Dading period, Emperor Wen of Sui was in power, but the royal family was killed, leading to the state's downfall.

Liang, whose courtesy name was Qiande, was initially granted the title of Duke of Yongchang in the early years of Wucheng. Later, he inherited the title of Duke of Lie and was appointed as the Minister of State and the Governor of Liang Province. Towards the end of the Tianhe era, he was promoted to the rank of Grand Master of the Masters and then elevated to General. After the death of the Duke of Bin Country, Liang was appointed as the Governor of Qin Province, with the troops under his command at his disposal. However, during his time in Qin Province, he did not achieve much in terms of political accomplishments. Not long after, he was promoted to the rank of Pillar of the Nation. After the assassination of Duke of Jin, Yuwen Hu, Liang felt insecure and spent his days drinking to relieve his sorrows. Emperor Gaozu even wrote him a letter to offer consolation. During the Jiande era, Emperor Gaozu launched an eastern expedition and appointed Liang as the Commander of the Right Second Army. After the pacification of Bingzhou, Liang was promoted to Senior Pillar of the Nation. He also participated in the campaign to pacify Ye City, after which he was promoted to Grand Minister. After Emperor Xuan ascended to the throne, Liang was appointed as the Governor of Anzhou. At the beginning of the Daxiang era, the court issued an edict appointing Liang as the Commander of the Marching Forces, to campaign against the Chen Dynasty alongside the Marshal and Duke of Yun, Wei Xiaokuan. Liang departed from Anlu, captured Huangcheng, and also plundered villages along the Yangtze River, taking goods from the villagers and sharing the plunder with his soldiers. After the army returned to Yuzhou, Liang secretly told the Chief Historian, Du Shijun, "The emperor is becoming increasingly debauched; the state is doomed! I am of royal blood and cannot bear to watch the country perish. If I were to attack the Duke of Yun and seize his troops to support my uncle as emperor, who would dare to go against me?" Tha

Yi, styled Qianyi, was bestowed the title of Duke of Xiyang in the early years of Wucheng. He died young and was posthumously given the title Zhao. He had no sons, so the title was inherited by Wen, the son of Duke Liang of Qiguo. Later, due to Liang's rebellion and execution, Chun's title was also revoked.

Chun, styled Qianshou, was initially granted the title of Duke of Yongchang. Later, during the Baoding period, he was promoted to Chief Minister and Grand Master of the Three Departments. During the Jiande years, he was further promoted to General. He was then appointed Governor of Qizhou. Four years later, when famine broke out in the Guanzhong area, Chun submitted a memorial outlining the situation, and the emperor specifically issued a decree to convey his concern, ordering the opening of granaries to relieve the people. When Emperor Gaozu launched his eastern campaign, Chun, together with Prince Qi Xian, captured five cities including Wuji. Five years later, when Emperor Gaozu's army advanced to Jinzhou, Chun led his troops to camp at Qiji Plain. After Emperor Xuan ascended the throne, Chun was appointed Grand Minister of Justice. After the Liang army was subdued, the court issued a decree posthumously honoring Chun as Duke Shaolie. Soon after, he was promoted to Senior State Minister and then transferred to Grand Tutor. In the early years of the Dading era, Chun was killed by Emperor Wen of Sui, and his five sons—Daozong, Ben, Renlin, Wuzi, and Lixian—were also executed.

Zhong, styled Qiandao, was granted the title of Duke of Tianshui in the early years of Baoding. He was not particularly bright from a young age, and his speech and actions were often difficult to understand. After Emperor Wen of Sui ascended the throne, he initially planned to bestow upon him the title of Duke of Jie, but later ordered his execution, along with his two sons, Zhonghe and Shulun, who were also executed.

From a young age, Qi Jian Gong Lian was known for his caution and integrity, and he was brave and decisive as a warrior. He followed Emperor De to attack Dingzhou and died in battle at the Tang River. In the early years of Baoding, he was posthumously honored with the titles of Envoy with Imperial Authority, Grand Tutor, General of the Pillar State, Grand Minister, Grand Commander, and Military Governor of ten provinces including Ding and Ji, as well as the governorship of Dingzhou. He was granted the title of Duke of Qi with a fief of five thousand households and was posthumously given the title "Jian." His son Yuanbao was later killed by Emperor Shenwu of Qi. In the early years of Baoding, he was also awarded the titles of General, Junior Minister, Grand Commander, and Military Governor of six provinces including You and Yan, as well as the position of Governor of Youzhou, inheriting the title of Duke of Qi and was posthumously honored with the title "Lie." Finally, the son of Duke Zhangwu, Liang, inherited the title.

Ju Zhuang Gong Luosheng, from a young age, had a strong sense of justice and practiced martial arts. As he grew older, he became broad-minded and willing to help others, earning the admiration of scholars. Capable individuals from North Zhou sought his company, but most of their talents were not as great as his. Later, Ge Rong defeated Xianyu Xiuli and conferred the title of King of Yuyang upon Luosheng, allowing him to command the remaining troops of Emperor De. At that time, everyone called him King Luosheng. Luosheng was adept at soothing his soldiers, and he had many valiant and skilled fighters under his command. In battle, no one could match his brilliance, so he always achieved remarkable military accomplishments, surpassing other armies. Later, Er Zhu Rong pacified Shandong and relocated those heroes to Jinyang, and at that time, Luosheng was also in Er Zhu Rong's hands. Er Zhu Rong had heard of Luosheng's reputation and was wary of him, which ultimately led to his death. In the early years of Baoding, he was posthumously honored with the titles of Envoy with Imperial Authority, Grand Guardian, and General of the Pillar State, as well as the position of Governor of Bingzhou. He was granted the title of Duke of Ju with a fief of five thousand households and was later posthumously honored with the title "Zhuang."

His son, Putu, was killed by Emperor Shenwu of Qi. In the early years of Baoding, he was posthumously awarded the titles of General, Junior Grand Minister, Grand Commander, and Military Governor of six provinces including Si and Heng, as well as the position of Governor of Sizhou, inheriting the title of Duke of Ju and was later posthumously honored with the title "Mu." He was succeeded by Hu, the son of Duke Jin.

Zhi, courtesy name Qianfu, was initially conferred the title of Duke of Chongye and later inherited the title of Duke Mu. In the early years of Jiande, after his father was killed, the court permitted Bin, the son of King Wei Zhi, to inherit the title of Duke Mu. Three years later, Zhi's title was reinstated. Bin, courtesy name Qianrui, was later implicated due to Zhi's execution. In the sixth year of Jiande, the son of King Qi Xian, Duke Guangdu Gong, inherited the title. Gong, courtesy name Qianzhen, was killed in the early years of Emperor Xuan, and his title was revoked.

Duke Zhong of the Yu State was a cousin of Emperor De. He passed away in Daizhou. In the early years of Baoding, he was posthumously honored with the titles of Envoy with Imperial Authority, Grand Tutor, General of the Pillar State, Grand Minister, Grand Commander, and various military titles in ten states, and also held the position of Governor of Yanzhou. He was conferred the title of Duke of Yu and granted a fief of three thousand households. His son Xing inherited the title.

Regarding Xing, he found himself amidst chaos and turmoil during the wars and got separated from his younger brother, Zhongzi. At that time, being still young, he had no idea where his relatives and friends were. He initially did not recognize his great-grandfather Yang Jian's brothers. Later, during the battle at Shayuanguan under Emperor Shenzu of Qi, Xing happened to be on the battlefield, and when the army was defeated, he was captured and, as per regulations, assigned to serve in various armies. Xing was an open-minded individual with lofty aspirations. Despite having endured numerous hardships, his demeanor and character continued to earn him respect.

In the second year of Emperor Wei Gong, the court selected virtuous talents, and he was appointed as the county deputy. Later, he was appointed as the magistrate of Chang County. It was not until the second year of Baoding that the court found out about his brother, Zhongzi, and the two brothers finally got in touch again. Emperor Gaozu knew that Xing Sheng was his clan relative and held him in high regard, granting him an official position and making him the Duke of Daning. He rose to high ranks, including Envoy with Authority, General of Cavalry, Chancellor with the same status as the Three Departments, and Governor, which was quite prestigious! Soon after, he was appointed Grand Master. Four years later, he was sent to Jingzhou as an Inspector. Five years later, the court recalled him to be a Grand Master again, promoting him and granting him the Duke of Yu title. He died in the second year of Tianhe, and Emperor Gaozu personally went to express his condolences, weeping inconsolably. The emperor also ordered the Grand Minister and Duke of Shen, Li Mu, to be in charge of his funeral and posthumously awarded him the titles of Envoy with Authority and General of Pillar State, Grand Governor, and various military positions in six states, as well as the title of Inspector of Hengzhou, with the posthumous title Jing. His son, Luo, inherited his title.

His son, Luo, styled Yongluo, was made heir to the Duke of Yu when he was nine. In the fourth year of Tianhe, he formally inherited his father's title. During the Jian De period, he rose to the ranks of Envoy with Authority and General of Chariots and Cavalry, and Chancellor of the Three Departments. After the death of Emperor Jing, Emperor Wen of Sui enfeoffed him as Duke of Jie, thus becoming a distinguished guest of the Sui Dynasty.

Historical records state that from ancient times to the present, those emperors who were granted the Mandate of Heaven and those who upheld the dynasty not only had external ministers to assist them but also had their relatives to help. Their relatives included nobles from the states of Lu, Wei, Liang, and Chu, as well as more distant relatives, such as the Fan, Jiang, Jing, and Yan families, who were renowned across the ages, with achievements still remembered today.

For example, during the time of King Wen of Zhou, Duke Xiao of Bin not only made significant contributions but also enacted wise and benevolent policies; Duke Wen of Cai was famous for his devotion to his parents and lived a very frugal life. Their deeds have left a shining legacy in history. When the Sui Dynasty was established, it unified the entire country through its formidable strength, and all the civil and military officials were wholeheartedly loyal, eagerly praising the achievements of the Sui Dynasty. As for Zhou, he was a distant relative of Emperor Wen of Sui, governed a region, and performed many good deeds, so he was both loyal and brave. Unfortunately, his achievements ultimately remained unfulfilled, which is a real shame! Zhou, despite his limited abilities, aspired to achieve extraordinary feats against a powerful enemy; as the ancients would say, those who overestimate themselves and ignore the consequences are just like him!

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Written by: Realhistories

Category: Book of Zhou （周書）

Published: 09 January 2025

Created: 09 January 2025

Hits: 33

Speaking of which, from Empress Yuan of Emperor Wen of Han to Empress Sima of Emperor Jing of Northern Zhou, the number of empresses throughout history is countless. The "Book of Documents" records the virtues of Yu Shun, stating that he "married off his two daughters," and the "Book of Songs" praises King Wen for being "very kind to widows." This shows that marriage is a significant matter, and the distinction between men and women must be approached with care for the sake of the nation and the family.

From the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties all the way to the Wei and Jin dynasties, the rise and fall of these dynasties, along with the reasons for their successes and failures, are well documented in historical texts, and we can all see them. If the empresses could prioritize virtue, adhere to rituals and laws, and maintain a righteous atmosphere in the palace, the nation would be stable and prosperous, ensuring the dynasty's security; this is the right path. However, if indecent individuals enter the palace, corrupting the rituals and laws, with empresses indulging in beauty and forming cliques for personal gain, the nation's moral fabric would deteriorate, jeopardizing the foundation of the state. These are lessons learned from emperors throughout history!

The Zhou royal family consistently followed the rules of the Ji clan, and the harem system was orderly. When our great Emperor Taizu established his reign, he lived simply, and the harem was also frugal; after Emperor Gaozu ascended the throne, he maintained self-discipline and upheld rituals, keeping his desires in check. With a good atmosphere in the palace and no misconduct among the royal relatives and nobility, this exemplifies the style of a wise ruler. However, by the time of Emperor Xuan, he outwardly pretended to be diligent in governance while secretly indulging his desires, insatiable and endlessly selecting concubines. His favorites included palace maids and servants, with no restrictions placed on his choices; he was also generous with rewards, sending gifts to various dangerous and remote locations.

So, those who live in the Orchid Palace, the noble queens are not just one; those who live in magnificent palaces, enjoying wealth and honor, are also not just one. Even emperors in history like Xin and Gui, who were debauched and tyrannical, and concubines who confused emperors like Zhao and Li, are far behind when compared to Emperor Xuan. The common people could not endure the harsh governance, and their grievances were widespread; the founding emperor's dynasty nearly collapsed due to Emperor Xuan. That's why I wrote this "Biography of the Queens" to record these matters.

Empress Yuan of Emperor Wen was the younger sister of Emperor Xiaowu of Wei. Initially granted the title of Princess Pingyang, she married Zhang Huan, a greedy and cruel man who had no respect for the empress and even killed her maid. The empress was furious and went to complain to the emperor, who, in a fit of rage, had Zhang Huan arrested and executed. Later, the empress was later granted the title of Princess Fengyi and married the founding emperor of Northern Zhou, giving birth to Emperor Xiaomin of Northern Zhou. She died in the seventh year of the Datong era. In December of the third year of Emperor Wei Gong's reign, she was buried alongside her husband in Chengling. After Emperor Xiaomin ascended the throne, she was posthumously honored as a queen, and in the early years of Wucheng, she was further honored as empress.

Next is Empress Chinu of Wenxuan, who was from Dai County. When the founding emperor of Northern Zhou served as chancellor, he took her as a concubine, and she gave birth to Emperor Gaozu of Northern Zhou. In June of the second year of the Tianhe era, she was honored as Empress Dowager. She passed away on the Guiyou day in the third year of the Jiande era. She was buried in Yonggu Ling on the Dingzi day in April.

Empress Yuan of the Xiaomin Emperor, named Hu Mo, was the fifth daughter of Emperor Wen of Wei. She was initially conferred the title of Princess Jin'an. When the Xiaomin Emperor of Northern Zhou was still known as Duke of Lueyang, he married her. After ascending the throne, the Xiaomin Emperor made her the empress. Later, when the Xiaomin Emperor was deposed, the empress took vows and became a nun. In the early years of the Jiande era, Emperor Gaozu executed Yuwen Hu, the Duke of Jin, and posthumously honored the Xiaomin Emperor as an emperor, and thus the empress was posthumously honored as Empress Xiaomin and resided in Chongyi Palace. After the establishment of the Sui Dynasty, the empress moved to a common residence. She passed away in the twelfth year of the Daye era.

Finally, Empress Dugu, the wife of Emperor Ming, was the daughter of Duke Dugu Xin. When Emperor Ming of Northern Zhou was still a vassal prince, he married her as his wife. In January of the second year of his reign, she was made empress. She passed away in April and was interred at Zhao Ling. In the early years of Wucheng, she was posthumously honored as empress. After Emperor Shizong's death, they were buried together.

Legend has it that the empress of Emperor Wu was the daughter of the Turkic khan, Sijin. After the Turks defeated the Ruru, they occupied all the border areas, boasting hundreds of thousands of archers eager to conquer the Central Plains. At that time, Emperor Gaozu was competing with the Qi state for control and formed an alliance with the Turks for assistance. Initially, Sijin intended to marry his daughter to Gaozu but later had second thoughts. After Gaozu became emperor, he sent envoys multiple times to establish contact with the Turks, and eventually, Sijin agreed to marry his daughter over.

In the fifth year of Baoding, in February, the emperor ordered Duke Yuwen Chun of Chen, Duke Yuwen Gui of Xu, Duke Dou Yi of Shenwu, and Duke Yang Jian of Nan'an to bring the empress's retinue and palace, along with over 120 members of the harem, to Sijin's camp to receive the empress. However, Sijin had also agreed to marry his daughter to the Qi state, and he had a change of heart and planned to backtrack. Yuwen Chun and his companions waited there for several years without being able to return with any news. Although the envoys discussed numerous principles of loyalty and righteousness with Sijin, he refused to listen.

Later, a sudden and fierce thunderstorm swept in, damaging his tent, and it did not stop for over ten days. Si Jin was extremely frightened, believing this was a punishment from heaven, and thus obediently prepared the ceremony to send off the queen. Yu Wen Chun and the others quickly set up a temporary palace and arranged the honor guard to welcome the queen back. In the third year of Tianhe, in March, the queen arrived in Chang'an, where Emperor Gaozu personally went to greet her. The queen was not only beautiful but also exuded elegance, and Emperor Gaozu treated her with great respect.

After Emperor Xuan ascended the throne, he honored her as Empress Dowager. In the second month of the first year of Daxiang, her title was elevated to Empress Dowager Tianyuan. In the second month of the second year of Daxiang, she was again honored as the Supreme Empress Dowager Tianyuan. The edict stated: "The Emperor Tianyuan's minister Yun, with the seal and the edict, respectfully beseeches the title of Empress Dowager Tianyuan as the Supreme Empress Dowager Tianyuan. I humbly pray that, with profound wisdom and virtue, you embrace and carry the world, spreading harmony among all nations, with your dignified presence reigning over the four seas. Your holy kindness instructs and guides, and your deep grace and clear virtue, though the title has been conferred, do not yet reflect your utmost dignity. Therefore, we increase the offerings and honor your name, illuminating the customary rites. May sincere respect be displayed, bringing joy to all, with boundless blessings upon which countless lives depend." After Emperor Xuan's death, Emperor Jing honored her as the Grand Empress Dowager. In the second year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui dynasty, she passed away at the age of thirty-two. Emperor Wen of Sui ordered the relevant departments to prepare the ceremony to have her buried alongside Emperor Gaozu at the Xiaoling mausoleum.

Empress Li, named Ezi, was from Hubei. When Yu Jin attacked Jiangling that year, her family was raided, and all their possessions were confiscated. Later, she was taken to Chang'an, initially given to Emperor Gaozu, and gradually earned his favor.

In the second month of the Year of the Great Elephant, she was granted the title of Empress Dowager of Heavenly Origin. By July, she was further honored as the Empress Dowager of the Heavenly Emperor. In the second year of the Great Elephant, she was once again honored as the Holy Empress Dowager of Heavenly Origin. At that time, the edict stated: "The Emperor of Heavenly Origin, Minister Yun, respectfully presents the seal and decree, and hereby submits the title of the Holy Empress Dowager of Heavenly Origin. May the moon's essence may bring blessings, and may the earth's spirit manifest grace, as auspicious signs arise from the Crimson Tomb, and celebrate the flowing brilliance. Although it is customary to adhere to the regulations and to have long served with the emblematic title, the heart is filled with respect, and the honorific name has not yet been fully expressed. Therefore, we think to further proclaim the title, to publicly proclaim the holy virtues, and dare to offer sincere respect, to eternally secure blessings and fulfill duties. To manifest the compassionate teachings and bequeath strategies to her descendants." This means that the emperor wanted to bestow upon her an honorary title to express his respect and gratitude towards her.

After the death of Emperor Xuan, Emperor Jing further honored her as the Empress Dowager of the Supreme. In the third month of the first year of the Kaihuang period of the Sui Dynasty, she renounced worldly affairs, renounced the secular life, and became a nun, changing her name to Changbei. Eight years later, she passed away at the age of fifty-three and was buried according to the rites of a nun in the southern part of the capital.

Empress Yang of Emperor Xuan, named Lihua, was the eldest daughter of Emperor Wen of Sui. While Emperor Xuan was still the crown prince, Emperor Wen had her made the crown princess. In the leap month of the first year of the Xuan Zheng period, she was formally established as empress. Later, when Emperor Xuan declared himself the Emperor of Heavenly Origin, he conferred upon her the title of Empress of Heavenly Origin. Not long after, Emperor Xuan also established the Heavenly Empress and the Left Empress and the Right Empress, resulting in four empresses in the imperial harem.

Two years later, Emperor Xuan issued an edict stating: "I have established four empresses, inspired by the stars in the sky, and they will assist me in governing the country, promoting the virtues of women, and ensuring abundance. Since I have appointed so many empresses, their titles should also reflect some distinction, so let us change their titles according to celestial phenomena." Thus, Empress Yang and the other three empresses were given titles. Emperor Xuan also sent envoys with the edict to confer the title of Empress Tianyuan upon Empress Yang, stating in the edict: "You possess noble virtues and conduct yourself properly, respectfully serving your ancestors, thereby setting an example for the country. Therefore, I specially bestow this title upon you to commend your merits. You must keep up the good work and live up to my expectations!" After that, Emperor Xuan appointed another Grand Empress of Tianzhong, making the total number of empresses five.

Empress Yang was gentle and kind-hearted, never harboring jealousy towards others, so the concubines in the harem all loved and admired her. However, Emperor Xuan later became tyrannical and unpredictable. Once, for reasons unknown, he unjustly vented his anger on Empress Yang and sought to punish her. Although Empress Yang was very afraid, she remained calm, argued her case logically, and remained resolute. Emperor Xuan was extremely angry and even ordered that Empress Yang be executed, forcing her to pen her own farewell letter. Upon hearing this, Empress Yang's mother from the Dugu clan hurried to the palace to plead for her, kowtowing until she bled profusely, and ultimately managed to save Empress Yang's life.

After Emperor Xuan's death, Emperor Jing posthumously honored Empress Yang as Empress Dowager and granted her residence in Hongsheng Palace. When Emperor Xuan was gravely ill, he had issued an edict permitting Empress Yang's father to enter the palace to care for him. Before Emperor Xuan passed away, Liu Fang, Zheng Yi, and others forged an edict that enabled Empress Yang's father to participate in governance. Although Empress Yang did not participate in the plotting, she was pleased to hear that Liu Fang and Zheng Yi were doing this, as she considered that the new emperor was still young and worried that power might fall into the hands of others, which could threaten her position. Eventually, Empress Yang realized her father harbored ambitions of usurping the throne, which made her uneasy, and it was apparent on her face. When the abdication matter occurred, her dissatisfaction intensified. Although Emperor Wen of Sui was aware of the situation, he could not hold her accountable and felt a deep sense of guilt. In the sixth year of the Kaihuang era, Emperor Wen of Sui bestowed the title of Princess of Leping on Empress Yang. Later, when someone tried to strip her of her title, she resolutely refused, and they ultimately abandoned the attempt. In the fifth year of the Daye era, Empress Yang accompanied Emperor Yang of Sui to Zhangye and passed away in Hexi at the age of forty-nine. After Emperor Yang returned to the capital, he ordered her burial with imperial honors, and she was laid to rest in Dingling.

Empress Zhu, the wife of Emperor Xuan, named Manyue, was from the Wu region. Her family was punished for wrongdoing, and they were all sent to the Eastern Palace to serve as attendants. While Emperor Xuan was still a prince, Manyue was chosen to manage the prince's clothing. During his youth, Emperor Xuan favored her, and together they had Emperor Jing. In the first year of the Daxiang era, she was appointed Empress of Tianyuan, and soon after, she was renamed Empress Tian; the following year, she was renamed Empress Da. The official decree stated: "I urge you to embody the four virtues, to guide the six palaces, to arrange the court in order, to celebrate at the Yao Gate, to commend the honors already bestowed, and to uphold the grand ceremonies. You should cultivate virtue and adhere to the path, without deviating from propriety, ensuring enduring blessings; should you not take care?" Empress Zhu originally hailed from a humble background and was more than ten years older than Emperor Xuan, with a lowly status and little affection. However, because she gave birth to Emperor Jing, she was especially revered, with her status only second to Empress Yang. After Emperor Xuan's death, Emperor Jing honored her with the title of Empress Dowager. In the first year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty, she took vows as a nun, adopting the Dharma name Fajing. She passed away in the sixth year of the Kaihuang era at the age of forty and was buried in the capital according to nun's rites.

Emperor Xuan's Empress Chen, named Yueyi, from Yingchuan, was the eighth daughter of the Grand General Shan Ti. In June of the first year of the Daxiang era, she was selected to enter the palace and was granted the title of Noble Consort. A month later, she was named Empress of the Left. In February of the following year, her title was changed to Grand Empress of the Left. The conferment edict stated: "We hereby recognize you, Yi Fan, who is gentle and unassuming, with a demeanor of purity and integrity, whose virtuous conduct is evident both near and far, and whose regulations are paramount in the palace. Therefore, we proclaim this honor and bestow upon you this title. You should study the rites and poetry, consult the illustrations, and review the histories, so that you may uphold the great mission with care." In March, another decree was issued stating: "The harem's status is crucial as it underpins moral education and customs. The empress system has varied across dynasties. In the succession systems of Xuanyuan and Ku, there were four secondary consorts; Yu Shun, when appointed, also had three wives. Rituals and systems are not fixed and will evolve with the times. I follow the systems of my ancestors, widely praising noble titles, while reforming and exceeding ancient systems. 'Tian Yuan' represents the supreme position, which is revered by the Five Emperors; if the emperor is honored, the empress should be equally honored. Moreover, Kun Yi surpasses De, and the earth number is five; having already followed the old system, this system should also be adopted. In addition to the four great empresses, one more Grand Empress of the Center may be added. The Grand Empress of the Center oversees the sacrifices, is renowned far and wide, and has established a good reputation, thus should receive a distinguished conferment." Thus, Empress Chen was established as the Grand Empress of the Center. After Emperor Xuan's death, she also became a nun, taking the Dharma name Huaguang.

Gao, his father was Shan Ti, an official in the Qi state, achieving high positions such as Special Advisor, Governor, and Inspector of Dongyanzhou, and held the title of Prince of Xieyang. Later, after the Northern Zhou defeated the Qi state, he was conferred the title of Grand General and also became the Duke of Xiyang. In the first year of the Daxiang era, because his father-in-law was promoted, he too rose with the tide, being conferred the title of Shangzhuguo, promoted to Duke of Ying, and became the Grand Minister, as his official rank continued to rise.

Emperor Xuan's original empress, named Le Shang (乐尚), was from Luoyang, Henan, and was the second daughter of Kaifu Sheng. She entered the palace at the age of fifteen and was first granted the title of noble lady. In the seventh month of the first year of the Daxiang era, she was proclaimed as Empress Tianyou; in the second year, in the second month, she was renamed Empress Tianyou Da. When she was conferred the title, the edict read: "We honor you, the virtuous and noble, for your admirable grace and harmonious conduct. Therefore, we bestow this honor upon you to elevate these ceremonial practices. You must diligently uphold these standards, solemnly accept this distinguished title, and humbly receive this imperial command; must you not be cautious?" After the emperor's death, she became a nun and took the dharma name Huasheng.

At first, Empress Yuan and Empress Chen entered the palace together, both becoming consorts, and later they were both promoted to empress on the same day. The emperor treated both of them well, with equal courtesy; they were the same age and had a particularly close relationship. After they both took vows as nuns, the other empresses, including Empress Li, Empress Zhu, and Empress Weichi, all passed away, leaving only the two of them. Empress Yuan's father, Sheng, was conferred the title of Kaifu in his youth because of his ties to the Yuan clan. In the seventh month of the first year of the Daxiang era, because his daughter became empress, he was promoted and given the title of Shangzhuguo, as well as the title of Duke of Yiguo.

Empress Wei Chi of Emperor Xuan, named Chi Fan, was the granddaughter of Duke Gong Jiong of Shu and was exceptionally beautiful. She first married Duke Xi Yang Wen, the son of Duke Liang of Qi, and due to her status as a noblewoman, she frequently entered the palace. The emperor took a liking to her and took her as his favored concubine. Later, Duke Liang of Qi rebelled, and the emperor killed Duke Xi Yang Wen, bringing the Wei Chi family into the palace and granting her the title of Noble Consort Changgui. In March of the second year of the Great Elephant era, she was established as the Great Empress of the Left. The imperial edict at her coronation stated: "We acknowledge you, who have received great fortune, personally demonstrate spiritual grace, and possess illustrious sound and abundant virtue; I truly commend you. Therefore, we hold this grand ceremony and declare this favor. You should carefully consider your actions, respectfully respond to the imperial command, and forever inherit the glorious achievements; you must be cautious." After the emperor's death, she became a nun, taking the Buddhist name Hua Shou. In the fifteenth year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty, she passed away at the age of thirty.

Empress Sima, known as Ling Ji, was the daughter of Duke Xiaonan of Zhu Guo and Ying Yang. In February of the first year of the Great Elephant era, Emperor Xuan passed the throne to Emperor Jing, and in July, Emperor Jing established her as empress. The edict for her coronation read: "The way of Kun takes form, and great virtue carries all; the yin essence circulates, and the luminous essence shines upon the heavens. In the past, the royal kings, receiving the heavenly mandate, assisted in internal governance, and their achievements were evident in the inscriptions. Only your family has accumulated auspiciousness, and your household bears glorious achievements, with illustrious sound and exemplary conduct, not deviating from the times. Therefore, I command you to be the empress consort. You should strive to cultivate a gentle heart, solemnly uphold the grand ceremony, pursue the noble and illustrious paths of the past emperors, and ensure the fragrant legacy of the noble families, with ceremonial attire shining and offerings plentiful; though you may be at rest, do not become complacent, to enhance the prosperous fortune."

In September of the following year, Emperor Wen of Sui, along with his father and army, attacked the Chen Dynasty, and Emperor Jing was deposed and reduced to commoner status. Later, she married Li Dan, the Inspector of the Sili in the Sui Dynasty, and she is said to still be alive today.

Historians comment that Confucius once said, "The barbarians have rulers, but they are not as good as the downfall of the Zhou." Therefore, when the Zhou Dynasty married women from the Di people as queens, Richen believed this was the beginning of chaos; when the Jin Dynasty married women from the Rong tribe as queens, the diviners considered it inauspicious. This statement is certainly not wrong. From the establishment of the Zhou Dynasty to the founding emperor, more than three dynasties passed, experiencing four emperors. This was neither the early days of founding a nation nor a time for expediency, yet they abandoned their own kin and chose foreign tribes, using barbarians to disrupt the Huaxia. They discarded the normal order of marriage in pursuit of predatory interests. As a result, those who sought revenge grew weary, while those who offered kindness remained unsatisfied; the so-called peace through marriage quickly turned into hostility. This principle of right and wrong stands in stark contrast to the situation! At that time, although the founding emperor was under the control of others and had not yet taken charge of state affairs, the strategists concealed their brilliant schemes, while the honest ministers kept quiet. Alas, this was truly a grave mistake!

Looking at past records, many in-laws rose to the position of prime minister. The Shen and Lü families were obscure in history, while the Lü and Huo families were prominent at that time. The Han Dynasty fell due to the royal family, and the downfall of the Zhou Dynasty was caused by the Yang family. The fall of these dynasties felt almost inevitable. This likely explains why Emperor Wen of Wei issued a decree to completely change this situation.

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Written by: Realhistories

Category: Book of Zhou （周書）

Published: 09 January 2025

Created: 09 January 2025

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Emperor Jing, originally named Yan and later renamed Chan, was the eldest son of Emperor Xuan. His mother was Empress Zhu. In June of the second year of the Jian De era, he was born in the Eastern Palace. On Gui Mao day in the first month of the first year of Da Xiang, he was granted the title of King of Lu. On Wu Wu day, he was named Crown Prince. On Xin Si day in the second month, Emperor Xuan passed the throne to him at Ye Palace, and then the new emperor resided in Zhengyang Palace.

Thus, Emperor Jing officially ascended the throne and began his reign. What story will unfold next? Let us wait and see.

In May of the year 578, Emperor Xuan fell seriously ill, and the new emperor was summoned to Lu Men Academy to be by his side. A few days later, Emperor Xuan passed away. The new emperor left Zhengyang Palace, issued a pardon throughout the realm, and the construction project of Luoyang Palace was also halted. Then, Empress Dowager Tianyuan was posthumously honored as the Grand Empress Dowager, Lady Li was honored as the Grand Empress Dowager, Lady Yang as the Empress Dowager, and Lady Zhu as the Empress Dowager. The three empresses—Chen, Yuan, and Wei Chi—renounced their titles to become nuns. Wang Zan was appointed Grand Minister and Right Chancellor, Yang Jian was appointed Acting Chancellor with the Yellow Decree and Left Chancellor, and Prince Qin Zhi was appointed Grand Minister. At that time, the new emperor was still quite young, and Left Chancellor Yang Jian handled all state affairs. Subsequently, Wei Xiaokuan was appointed as the governor of Xiangzhou, and the market entry tax was officially abolished.

In June, Yu Wen Shan, Dou Yi, Hou Mo Chen Qiong, and Yan Qing were all conferred the title of Grand Minister. King Zhao, King Chen, King Yue, King Dai, and King Teng all came to pay their respects. The court also reinstated Buddhism and Taoism, allowing those elderly monks and priests of good character to continue their practices. Afterwards, Duke Chun of Qi, Duke Yu of Yan, and Duke He Ba of Gao were also conferred the title of Grand Minister. Consequently, Wei Chi Qiong, the governor of Xiangzhou, rebelled and refused to obey the court's orders. The court dispatched troops to quell the rebellion and appointed Wei Xiao Kuan as the commander of the army. King Bihuan was executed for plotting to usurp the throne. King Qin Zhi was appointed Grand Chancellor, and Duke Chun of Qi was appointed Grand Minister of Works. The court ordered the release of the people of the four states: Nan Ding, Bei Guang, Heng, and Ba, who had previously been forced into servitude under Yu Wen Liang, allowing them to resume their former lives.

During this period, a crimson mist appeared in the West, slowly moving eastward and filling the entire sky. The court lifted the ban on some fish ponds and mountain streams, allowing the common folk to use them. Liang Rui was appointed governor of Yizhou. In July, the Turks returned Gao Shaoyi, the Prince of Fanyang, to the state of Qi. The governor of Shenzhou, Li Hui, rebelled. During this time, celestial phenomena occurred, including the moon covering the Di star and the sixth star of the Southern Dipper. The court decreed that the five princes—Zhao Wang, Chen Wang, Yue Wang, Dai Wang, and Teng Wang—were allowed to attend court without performing the kneeling ceremony and were allowed to wear swords when entering the hall. The governor of Xingzhou, Yuwen Zhou, also raised a rebellion, and the court dispatched Yang Su to suppress him. Wei Chiqin, the governor of Qingzhou, also raised a rebellion. Yang Jian was appointed commander of all military forces. Sima Xiaonan, the governor of Yunzhou, also rebelled, and the court sent Wang Yi to suppress him. That year, Jupiter and Venus aligned in the constellation Zhang, and a meteor as large as the Big Dipper appeared, flying past the Five Chariots constellation towards the northeast, lighting up the land. Zhao Wang Zhao and Yue Wang Sheng were killed for plotting to usurp power. The emperor granted the title of King of Ye to his brother Yang Shu and King of Ying to Yang Kan. In this month, tribes in Yuzhou, Jingzhou, and Xiangzhou rose in revolt, burning, killing, looting, and attacking the counties and states. On Geng Shen day in August, Wang Qian, the governor of Yizhou, rebelled and refused to relinquish his military command. The court quickly appointed Liang Rui as the marching marshal to confront him. On Ding Mao day, the court bestowed the title of Duke of Su Guo upon General Xin Wei and the title of Duke of Shan Guo upon Governor Yi Ang.

On the Gengwu day, Wei Xiaokuan defeated Yu Chijiong in Ye City, and Yu Chijiong committed suicide. Xiangzhou was also pacified. The court moved Xiangzhou to Anyang, and Ye City along with the original towns were all destroyed. At the same time, Yangping County in Xiangzhou was changed to Maozhou, and Changle County was renamed Weizhou. On the Bingzi day, the court appointed Han Wang Zan as Grand Tutor, and the governor of Bingzhou, Duke Li Mu of Shen, as Grand Preceptor. Wang Shi of Song was appointed as the Grand Front Doubt, Qin Wang Zhi as the Great Right Assistant, and Duke Yu Shi of Yan as the Great Left Assistant.

On the Jimao day, the emperor issued an edict that said: I have inherited the great achievements of my ancestors and have been emperor for two years. Thanks to my ancestors' protection and the help of various officials, the country has been stable and peaceful. The traitor Yu Chijiong, of mediocre talent and treacherous heart, relied on his slight connection to the royal family to attain a high official position. Just as disaster befell us from heaven, the late emperor passed away, and the whole nation was in mourning. Yet, this Yu Chijiong, not knowing right from wrong, actually raised an army to rebel, attempting to seize the world. Thus, I ordered the troops to suppress him, and after our soldiers fought bravely, we finally quelled the rebellion and captured the chief culprit, Yu Chijiong. The other rebels were so terrified that they surrendered. Taking advantage of the beautiful autumn weather and following the will of heaven, we completely pacified the rebellions along both banks of the Yellow River. The whole nation rejoiced. During the lifetime of the late emperor, wars were not easily initiated; the sage governed the world, emphasizing ruling by virtue. I, this time, had no choice but to resort to military force, and I feel quite ashamed. I now wish to implement lenient and simple policies to meet the people's expectations, so I have decided to grant a general amnesty. However, Yu Chijiong's accomplices, those obstinate individuals, as well as Yu Chijiong's sons and nephews, and the rebel Sima Xiaonan, Wang Qianzhi and others, will not be included in the amnesty.

In the year 580 AD, known as Gengchen, Sima Xiaonan gathered his troops at Lushan and Zengshan, then headed straight for Chenzhou. The emperor dispatched General Song Angong Yuan Jingshan to pursue him, which led to the capture and execution of over five hundred individuals, and Yunzhu was also brought under control. Yang Yong'an, the leader of the Di tribe in Shazhou, also gathered troops in response to Wang Qian's rebellion. The emperor then dispatched General Cheng Angong Daxi Ru to quell the rebellion. Meanwhile, Yang Su defeated Yuwen Zhou in Xingzhou and subsequently killed him at Shiji. The emperor promoted Dou Yi to Grand Marshal and Yu Zhi to the position of Grand Minister of Works. Additionally, he abolished the positions of the governors of six states: Xiangzhou, Qingzhou, Jingzhou, Jinzhu, Jinzhou, and Liangzhou.

On September 1st, Mars and Jupiter aligned in the Wing constellation. On September 3rd, the emperor abolished the governorship of Heyang, converting it into a garrison under Luozhou's authority. Yang Hui was appointed Grand Zongbo. On September 7th, the Sima clan was deposed and reduced to commoners. On September 9th, Mars entered the Taiwei Palace. On September 13th, Wang Yi was granted the title of Shangzhuguo. On September 16th, the emperor transferred the six states under Tongzhou's jurisdiction—Xinxian, Suizhou, Puzhou, Hezhou—and the two states under Luzhou's jurisdiction—Luzhou and Rongzhou—to the governorship of Xinzhu. On September 21st, Mars was in conjunction with the Left Law Star. On September 26th, Yu Yi and Yuwen Xin were both granted the title of Shangzhuguo; Yu Yi was made Duke of Renguo, and Yuwen Xin was made Duke of Yingguo. On September 28th, the title of the Prime Minister's office was revised to remove "Left" and "Right," and Yang Jian was appointed Grand Prime Minister.

On October 1st, a solar eclipse occurred. On October 2nd, a meteor appeared, as large as five douds in size, emerging from the Zhang constellation and flying south, illuminating the ground. On October 9th, Chen Wang Chun was killed out of resentment towards the ruling ministers. Yang Jian was promoted to Grand Zongzhai, and the five prefectures were placed under the authority of the Tianguan. On October 14th, Liang Rui defeated Wang Qian in Jiannan, pursued him, and sent Wang Qian's head to the capital, while Yizhou was also pacified.

On the first day of the eleventh month, Daxi Ru defeated Yang Yong'an in Shazhou, bringing peace to the region. On the second day of the eleventh month, the Star of Fortune lingered in the Taiwei Palace. On the fourth day of the eleventh month, the Grand Chancellor and Duke of Yunguo, Wei Xiaokuan, passed away.

On the Renzi day in December, Liang Rui, conferred the titles of Grand Chancellor and Duke of Jiangguo, was elevated to Grand Chancellor. On the day of Guichou, Mars entered the Di constellation. On the day of Dingsi, the following Grand Chancellors were all promoted to Grand Chancellor: Yang Xiong (Duke of Hanguo), He Lanxuan (Duke of Puan), Liang Shiyan (Duke of Chengguo), Chilie Changcha (Grand General, Duke of Xinning), Cui Hongdu (Duke of Wuxiang), Yuwen En (Grand General, Duke of Zhongshan), Yuwen Shu (Duke of Puyang), He Ganzi (Duke of Weiyuan), Wang Jing (Duke of Rencheng), Yang Rui (Duke of Yuyang), Li Chong (Shang Kaifu, Duke of Guangzong), and Li Xun (Duke of Longxi). On the day of Gengshen, Dou Luji (Grand Chancellor, Duke of Chuguo) was also promoted to Grand Chancellor.

On the day of Guihai, the Emperor issued an edict declaring: "The Book of Songs says 'better to be of the same surname,' and the Commentary on the Book of Songs says 'different surnames are for the latter.' This is to clarify kinship relationships and avoid confusion. The Great Ancestor Emperor was commanded by Heaven; at that time, the virtue of the dragon was concealed. The edict for the change of dynasties, like the stars, signifies the renewal of the old. At that time, the world was divided into three factions, and we were united in our desire to support the royal family of Northern Wei, making numerous adjustments in hopes of aligning with the will of Heaven. Among the civil and military officials, many were granted surnames, and they originally came from different countries and places, which actually violated the principle of land distribution. Instead of being close to one's kin, they permitted individuals of different lineages to serve the Emperor together; instead of being close to one's relatives, they arranged them in hierarchical order according to clan law in the court. Furthermore, the practice of changing surnames is an inherent trend in history; the mandate of Heaven belongs to those who yield and yield again, ultimately still cannot be avoided. Therefore, we have reigned over the world for several generations. We can no longer follow the principle of yielding and implement temporary measures for a long time. All individuals who have changed their surnames should revert to their original surnames."

On the Jiazi day, Yang Jian, the Grand Chancellor and Duke of Sui State, was elevated to the title of king and given control over ten commanderies. On the Xinwei day, Prince Da of Dai and Prince You of Teng were executed for conspiring to usurp power. On the Renshen day, Yang Yong, the Grand General and Duke of Changning, was appointed as the Senior Minister and Grand Marshal; Yuan Xiaojun, the Junior Chancellor and Duke of Shiping, was appointed as the Grand Minister of Justice.

On the Renwu day in the first month of the first year of the Great Ding period, the Emperor issued an edict that said: "Due to my insufficient virtue, I have faced severe punishment early in my reign. Time flies, and before I knew it, we are at this moment. My heart is heavy with pain and turmoil, and words fail to express it. More than a year later, I have changed the era name following past customs. Now, I will change the name of the Great Elephant era to the first year of Great Ding." On the same day, the planet Venus was in retrograde motion, located at the Right Law Star's position; the planet Mars obscured the first star of the Northern House.

A few days later, the Emperor issued another edict that said: "The emperor establishes official positions, promoting only those who are talented; for ministers serving the state, recommending talented individuals is crucial. Since last year, there have been repeated rebellions, and thanks to the chancellors' wise decisions, the rebellions have been quelled. After the rebellions were suppressed, although the wars have ended, the people in various regions are still quite weary, and life has not yet returned to normal. Among those in office, only a handful can truly contribute to the state. This is why the country has come to this point, as many talented individuals have not been properly utilized. Now that the world is unified and peace reigns, the chancellors are overseeing governance and educating the populace. If all the talented individuals can enter the court and be assigned positions according to their abilities, then I can leave everything to them, and the nation will naturally thrive." Therefore, the Emperor decreed that officials above the rank of governor, those above the level of minor officials, and those above the level of inspector should each recommend three honest and hardworking individuals. Those recommended, if they demonstrate merits or faults during their three years in office, will result in the recommenders also receiving rewards or punishments. Additionally, Yang Yong was appointed as the governor of Luozhou.

In February of the year of Gengshen, Yang Jian was appointed as the Prime Minister, overseeing all officials, and was granted an additional ten commanderies, bringing the total to thirty commanderies including the previous twenty. He was allowed to wear court robes to the palace, did not have to walk quickly to attend court, was exempt from kneeling ceremonies, enjoyed the honors of the Nine Seals, and was granted a seal, a ritual axe, and a crown for distant travels. The Prime Minister's seal was made with a green silk ribbon, elevating his status above all princes. Furthermore, he was crowned with twelve tassels, used the emperor's banners, had a ceremonial retinue when traveling, rode in a golden carriage drawn by six horses, equipped with a secondary carriage for various occasions, and had ceremonial standards, including the Cloud and Rare Head banners. There were also eight sets of music and dance, and bells hung in the palace. The titles and ranks of the empress and princes were determined according to the precedents of the Wei and Jin dynasties. On the Jiazi day, Yang Jian proclaimed himself emperor, and the former emperor retired to another palace.

The Sui Dynasty respected the former emperor as the Duke of Jie, with a fief that included ten thousand households. His ceremonial dress, music, and rites were the same as those of the Zhou Dynasty; there was no need to write memorials, and the emperor's replies did not need to be called edicts. Although there were such regulations, they were not actually enforced. In the first year of the Kaihuang era, on the day of Ren Shen in May, this emperor passed away at the age of nine. The historical records of the Sui Dynasty note this. His posthumous title was Emperor Jing, and he was buried in Gongling.

Historians note that Emperor Jing ascended to the throne at a young age, inheriting a declining empire. The ministers Sun and Liu manipulated power, and the influence of the imperial family was not as strong as that of the Qi and Dai states. The Sui Dynasty seized the opportunity to invade and removed the turtle-shaped cauldron that symbolized imperial authority. Although resistance was later organized around Mount Min and Mount Emei, the outcome was the loss of the empire; even the loyal armies along the Zhanghe and Fuhe rivers could not reverse the fall of the Great Zhou Dynasty. Alas, reflecting on the empire that Emperor Taizu built with great effort, it was only less than twenty years before it was extinguished, which is truly a pity! This is probably all the legacy left by Emperor Xuan, and should not be held against the young emperor.

This young emperor has taken on a heavy responsibility at such a young age, but he has found himself in such a mess. Inside the court, there are two bad actors, Sun and Liu, causing chaos, and outside, the influence of his relatives is too weak, not as strong as the former Qi and Dai states. The Sui Dynasty, seeing this situation, immediately took action and seized the treasured turtle-shaped cauldron that symbolizes imperial power. Although resistance was later organized in Sichuan, ultimately, they still couldn't hold on, and the country was lost. Even if troops were sent from the Zhanghe and Fuhe areas to help, they couldn't save the Great Zhou. Sigh, the world that Emperor Taizu worked so hard to establish was lost in less than twenty years, which is truly a shame! This is all the mess his grandfather, Emperor Xuan, left behind, and we can't really blame this young emperor.

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Written by: Realhistories

Category: Book of Zhou （周書）

Published: 09 January 2025

Created: 09 January 2025

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Emperor Xuan, named Yang Yun, courtesy name Qianbo, was the eldest son of Emperor Gao, Yang Jian. His mother was Empress Dowager Li. In the first year of Wucheng, which is 559 AD, he was born in Tongzhou. On the fifth day of the fifth month in the first year of Baoding, he was granted the title of Duke of Lu. By the fourth month of the first year of Jiande, Emperor Gao personally went to the ancestral temple to offer sacrifices to his ancestors, and then conducted the coronation ceremony for him at the ancestral hall steps, formally establishing him as the Crown Prince. After that, the emperor ordered the Crown Prince to inspect the western regions and handle state affairs.

Later, Empress Wenxuan passed away, and Emperor Gao felt very sad and somewhat dazed, allowing the Crown Prince to oversee state affairs, but this arrangement lasted only fifty days before it was revoked. Each time the emperor toured the provinces, the Crown Prince remained behind to manage state affairs in his stead. In the second month of the fifth year, the emperor again ordered the Crown Prince to inspect the western regions and campaign against the Tuyuhun.

On a certain day in June of 578 AD, Emperor Gao passed away. The next day, the Crown Prince ascended to the throne, honoring the empress as Empress Dowager. A few days later, a celestial phenomenon appeared in the sky, with the planets Jupiter, Mars, and Venus aligning in a rare conjunction near the Eastern Well star. Subsequently, the court put to death the Grand Minister of State, Qi Wang Xian, and conferred the title of Duke of Qi upon Zhi.

In the intercalary month, the emperor ordered relief for the disaster-stricken and displaced people in Shandong, as well as for those whose families were destroyed by attacks from the Turks, offering them a year of relief. He also elevated Yang Shi to the position of empress. After that, he promoted Zhao Wang Zhao to Grand Tutor and Chen Wang Chun to Grand Preceptor, while also bestowing the title of Grand Minister of State upon Dai Wang Da, Teng Wang You, Lu Guo Gong Wei Chi Yun, and Xue Guo Gong Chang Sun Lan. The Duke of Pingyang, Wang Yi, was also promoted and granted the title of Duke of Yang. In that month, Lu Changqi from Youzhou rebelled in Fanyang, and the emperor ordered Yuwen Shenju to lead troops to quell the rebellion, which was swiftly suppressed.

In the autumn of July, the moon obscured the star of the Heart. In the following days, the emperor conducted rituals at the ancestral temple, the Round Altar, and the Square Altar. Then, Hushi Zheng was appointed as the Grand Minister of State Rites. Next, Mars and Venus merged near the Seven Stars, and Venus even approached the Xuanyuan Star. Yang Jian was granted the title of Grand Minister of State and Grand Marshal. The emperor also honored his biological mother, Lady Li, as the Empress Dowager.

In August, the moon set in the western suburbs. The residents of Chang'an and Wannian counties in the capital received three years of relief. The emperor also made an incognito visit to Tongzhou and sent envoys to inspect various provinces. At the same time, the emperor issued nine new policies to be distributed to all provinces and counties: First, all cases and convictions must be strictly judged according to the law; Second, women from families other than their maternal ones are allowed to marry; Third, corporal punishment must be carried out in accordance with the law; Fourth, if thieves are reported in the counties but remain uncaught, this must be reported to the court; Fifth, filial sons, righteous husbands, and chaste women must be recognized for their family backgrounds, and those with talent should be recommended for government positions; Sixth, those who were oppressed in the past and did not receive promotion, or unknown yet talented individuals, must be investigated and recommended; Seventh, officials of the Northern Qi of grade seven and above have already been appointed, while those below grade seven and those who are exiled can participate in the selection, with their positions lowered by two ranks; Eighth, provinces must recommend talented and learned individuals to become scholars, and counties must recommend morally upright individuals as filial and incorrupt officials, with one from each upper province and upper county annually, and one from each lower province and lower county every three years; Ninth, elderly people over seventy should be granted official positions, and the lonely, widowed, and impoverished must receive relief. Then, Liang was appointed as the Governor of Anzhou, Changsun Lan as the Grand Minister of Instruction, and Wang Yi as the Grand Minister of Works. Following this, Venus entered the Taiwei Palace. Chun was appointed as the Grand Minister of Justice.

In September, Mars entered the Taiwei Palace. You Wensheng, Wang Jie, Xin Wei, and Wei Xiaokuan were all appointed as the Grand Pillar of State. The emperor's brother Yuan was granted the title of King of Jingzhou. The court mandated that all worship ceremonies must include three bows. Liu Shouluo, the leader of the Qihu tribe in Fenzhou, raised an army to rebel, and the emperor appointed King Sheng of Yue as the Grand Marshal to suppress the rebellion. Ultimately, Mars moved close to the Left Law Star again.

On Guiyou day in October, I returned from Tongzhou. The emperor appointed the Grand Minister of Works, Duke Wang Yi of Yang, to serve as the governor of Xiangzhou. On Wuzi day, Baekje sent envoys to pay tribute with treasures. On Jihai day in November, the emperor conducted a military drill in the Daohui Garden, personally wearing armor. This month, the Turks invaded the borders, besieging Jiuquan and killing and plundering its inhabitants. On Jiazi day in December, the emperor appointed the Grand Pillar of State, King Xian of Bi, as the Grand Minister of Works. On Guiwei day, Mars entered the Di constellation, where it remained for a month. On Jichou day, the emperor appointed the Grand Pillar of State, Governor Teng Wangyou of Heyang, as the commander-in-chief to lead the army against the Chen dynasty. Criminals serving in the capital were pardoned and ordered to join the army.

On Guisi day in the first month of the first year of the Great Elephant Era, the emperor received worship at the Lumon, wearing the Tongtian crown and a crimson silk robe, while the ministers were dressed in the clothing of the Han and Wei dynasties. A general amnesty was issued, and the era was renamed the Great Achievement Era. Four assistant minister positions were established, appointing the Grand Pillar of State, Grand Chancellor King Sheng of Yue, as the Grand Front Advisor, Governor Weichi Jiong of the State of Xiang as the Grand Right Assistant, Duke Li Mu of the State of Shen as the Grand Left Assistant, and Grand General Yang Jian of the State of Sui as the Grand Rear Counselor. On Guimao day, Prince Yan was bestowed the title of King of Lu. On Jiachen day, the emperor embarked on an eastern hunting expedition. On Bingwu day, a solar eclipse occurred. The Grand Pillar of State, Duke Yu Yi of Changshan, was appointed as the Grand Tutor. On Xinhai day, the Grand Pillar of State, Duke Yuwen Shan of Xu, was appointed as the Grand Ancestor. On Guichou day, another solar eclipse occurred. On Wuwu day, the emperor went to Luoyang. Prince Yan was declared Crown Prince. On Guihai day in February, the emperor issued an edict:

Speaking of Luoyang, this place has been a prosperous city since ancient times, situated at the intersection of heaven and earth, where yin and yang converge, and serving as a hub for tribute routes from various regions. Its geographical location is quite significant. Ancient enlightened rulers recognized its significance and established a kingdom here. Over the course of several dynasties and hundreds of years, Luoyang grew into a grand city with magnificent architecture, truly magnificent. Unfortunately, the Wei dynasty eventually fell, and Luoyang became a ruin. Educated individuals reminisced about the old capital, and the common people had a deep attachment to this land. Our founding emperor received the imperial mandate in Haojing, unified the area around Xiaohan, and pacified the world, always thinking of rebuilding Luoyang, this land of good fortune. The great founding emperor was both wise and formidable, unified the country, and once came to Luoyang to assess the people's welfare and understand local customs, even handling state affairs here, which shows the importance he placed on Luoyang.

Now that I have inherited the throne, I hope to fulfill my ancestor's wishes and cannot forget the duty of restoring the old capital. A few days ago, I inspected the palace ruins in Jinyong City, Luoyang, and found that they are relatively well-preserved, so restoring them should be relatively straightforward. Therefore, I have decided to rebuild the old capital of Luoyang. In the construction process, it should neither be extravagant nor too simple, but well-balanced; the project's organization must adhere to regulations. Luoyang is very close to Hanoi, not too far away, so the projects we were previously working on in Hanoi can now be put on hold.

So, I gathered the troops from various prefectures in Shandong, extended the construction period by one month, totaling 45 days, and began the construction of the Palace of Luoyang. There were 40,000 troops working on the project continuously until my passing. I also relocated the six government offices from Xiangzhou to Luoyang, referred to as the Six Offices of Dongjing. At the same time, I executed Zhu Guo, the Pillar of the State, and Wang Gui, the Duke of Tang, and halted military actions in the south. To strengthen relations with the Turks, I conferred the title of Princess of a Thousand Golds upon the daughter of the Zhao royal family and married her off to the Turks. On the day of Wuchen, I appointed Wei Xiaokuan, the Grand Chancellor, and Duke of Yun, as the governor of Xuzhou. On the day of Yihai, I inspected Ye City. On the day of Bingzi, I decreed that only governors, inspectors, and military leaders would be permitted to carry the ceremonial staff, and this privilege was revoked for all others. On the day of Xinsi, I issued a decree:

It is said that the Great Zhou Dynasty is truly an extraordinary nation! Our ancestors accumulated virtue, and the mandate of heaven is upon us. With both civil and military achievements, it shines brilliantly, and this nation is destined to prosper and flourish, leaving a legacy for generations to come! This is all thanks to the protection of heaven and the blessings of our ancestors! As for me, the emperor, I consider myself of mediocre talent and feel unworthy; I merely inherit the foundation laid by my ancestors and benefit from the unwavering loyalty of past rulers and ministers, which has led to today's situation. Look, tributes come from all corners, the country is peaceful, and the people are thriving; it truly brings joy! Now, for the long-term stability of the nation and the future of our state, I have decided to pass the throne to Crown Prince Yan.

Crown Prince Yan is my successor, the rightful heir, and he possesses exemplary virtues. He will surely be able to inherit my legacy and govern the country even better! This is not a decision I made lightly, but rather in accordance with the will of heaven, as it is destined by the heavens! My passing of the throne to Yan is also in line with the people's wishes; the common folk are looking forward to this! In this way, I can also retire with success, stepping away from the noise of the world and enjoying a quieter life. People of the nation, I trust you all understand my intentions? Now, I announce: a great amnesty for all! At the same time, the first year of Dacheng will henceforth be known as the first year of Daxiang!

After I announced my abdication, I took the title of "Emperor Tianyuan," and the place where I resided was named "Tiantai." My crown was embellished with twenty-four tassels, and my chariot, clothing, flags, and music were all standardized to twenty-four. The Minister of Internal Affairs and the Chief of the Imperial Guard were both elevated to the rank of Senior Officials. After Crown Prince Yan took the throne, his palace was called "Zhengyang Palace," and he also appointed officials such as advisors, imperial attendants, and various guards, all with the same standards as my "Tiantai." My mother was revered as "Empress Dowager Tianyuan," and Zheng Yi was granted the title of Duke of Pei. Legend has it that in the year of Guiwei, at dawn and dusk, dark objects appeared in the sky, roughly the size of eggs, and lasted for four days before disappearing. In the year of Wuzi, I appointed King Sheng of Yue as Grand Protector, Wei Chijiong as Grand Front Minister, and Wang Da as Grand Right Assistant. In the year of Xinmao, I commanded the stone classics from Ye City to be transported to Luoyang. I also issued an edict proclaiming: "Luoyang is the old capital, and it has now been restored. All the people who were relocated back then can return to Luoyang! Other people who wish to go can also choose freely. The seven governors of Heyang, Youzhou, Xiangzhou, Yuzhou, Bozhou, Qingzhou, and Xuzhou are to comply with the directives of the six offices in Dongjing."

On the first day of March, the Emperor appointed Changsun Lan as the governor of Jingzhou. A few days later, the Emperor embarked on an eastern tour and returned to court. The Dachen army was grand and formidable, and the Emperor himself entered the city clad in armor through the Qingmen Gate. The ceremonial escort followed into the city, and the officials welcomed him outside the Qingmen Gate. On that day, a heavy rain fell, resulting in disarray among the ceremonial escort. Subsequently, the Emperor bestowed the title of King of Yongkang County upon the second son of Prince Zhao.

On the first day of April, the officials announced a solar eclipse. The Emperor refrained from attending court and waited until the eclipse concluded before having his meal, and then he came to the court. On that day, the Emperor conferred the title of Empress Tianyuan upon Lady Zhu. After that, he appointed Bi Wangxian as the Grand Minister of State, to conduct sacrifices at the ancestral temple, and conducted a grand sacrificial ceremony at the Zhengwu Hall. During this period, the celestial spectacle of the three stars, Venus, Jupiter, and Chen, gathered in the eastern constellation of Jing.

On a certain day in May, the emperor renamed the Xiangguo County of Mingzhou as the Zhao Kingdom, the Jinan County of Qizhou as the Chen Kingdom, the Wudang County and Anfu County of Fengzhou as the Yue Kingdom, the Shangdang County of Luzhou as the Dai Kingdom, and the Xinye County of Jingzhou as the Teng Kingdom, with each kingdom granted ten thousand households. King Zhao of Zhao, King Chun of Chen, King Sheng of Yue, King Da of Dai, and King You of Teng were respectively appointed as kings of these kingdoms. That month, a meteor as large as a dipper appeared, shooting out from the Taiwei constellation like a burning fireball. The emperor also dispatched officials to Jingzhao Prefecture and various state capitals to select young women to enrich the imperial harem. Meanwhile, the Turks invaded Bingzhou.

In June, another egg-sized meteor appeared, flying out from the Di constellation, heading northwest, measuring about ten feet in length, and ultimately flying into the moon. Afterwards, the moon obscured the second star of the Fang constellation. Then, another meteor as large as a dipper appeared, flying out from the Ying Shi constellation and into the Dongbi constellation. That month, the ponds in Xianyang turned a blood-red color. The emperor also ordered the mobilization of the people of Shandong to construct the Great Wall.

In July, the emperor appointed Bi Wangxian as the governor of Yongzhou, Yang Jian as the Grand Front Minister, and Sima Xiaonan as the Grand Rear Minister. During this time, the comet obscured the first star of the Fang constellation. The emperor married Sima Xiaonan's daughter, making her the empress, bestowed the title of Empress Dowager upon the Li family, designated the Zhu family as the Empress, and named the Yuan family as the Right Empress and the Chen family as the Left Empress.

On the seventh of August, the emperor went to Tongzhou for an inspection. On the ninth, he returned to the palace. On the eleventh, the emperor conferred the title of Grand Minister on both Chen Shanti, the father of Empress Tianzuo, and Yuan Cheng, the father of Empress Tianyou. Chen Shanti was made Duke of Yanguo, and Yuan Cheng was made Duke of Yiguo. Yang Xiong was made Duke of Hanguo, and Yifusheng was made Duke of Daiguo. Legend has it that when Emperor Gaozu first established the "Code of Punishments," the punishments were extremely harsh. However, after he ascended the throne, worried that the populace might hold resentment after the recent pacification of the realm, he abolished it. This time, the emperor held a grand sacrificial ceremony in the Zhengwu Hall to report this to the heavens. On the eighteenth, the comet was seen in the fifth star of the Southern Dipper. On the nineteenth, the emperor promoted Bi Wangxian to Grand Preceptor and Han Jianye to Grand Left Minister. This month, swarms of ants could be seen fighting everywhere, with battle lines four to five feet wide, and eight or nine out of ten were either killed or injured.

On the sixth of September, the planet Venus entered the Southern Dipper. On the eleventh, Feng Wangzhen was appointed as Grand Chancellor. Wei Xiaokuan was appointed as the Grand Marshal of the Army, leading Duke Liang of Qiguo and Duke Liang Shiyan of Chengguo into battle against the Chen Kingdom. The emperor also sent Du Gao and Xue Shu as envoys to the Chen Kingdom.

On the ninth of October, the planet Jupiter was observed in the Xuanyuan star. On this day, the emperor went to Daohui Garden to hold a large sacrificial ceremony, also honoring Emperor Gaozu Wudi. After the sacrifices, everyone discussed matters in the temporary residence. This year, the worship of Buddha and Heavenly Lord statues was restored. By this time, the emperor sat southward with these two statues and arranged various performances for the citizens of the capital to enjoy. On the twelfth, the comet and the Zheng star converged in the Xus constellation. This month, Duan Deju from Xiangzhou staged a rebellion but was ultimately killed.

On the second day of November, the emperor went to Wen Tang to soak in the hot springs. On the fifth day, he went to Tongzhou for an inspection. On the ninth day, he returned to the palace. On the twelfth day, a star appeared in the sky, the size of a somersaulting figure, emerging from the Zhang constellation and moving southeast, its light illuminating the earth. On the fourteenth day, the minting of the Yongtong Wanguo coins began, with one coin worth ten old coins, circulating together with the cloth of the five elements. This month, Wei Xiaokuan captured Shouyang, Duke Qiguo Liang captured Huangcheng, and Liang Shiyan captured Guangling. The Chen army was defeated and fled. Thus, the entire area north of the Yangtze River was pacified.

On the fifth day of December, due to the frequent occurrence of disasters and strange occurrences, the emperor summoned all officials in the imperial chamber and issued an edict saying: Heaven is above, and wise men are below. Good fortune and misfortune are in our own hands; demons and monsters do not cause trouble on their own. My virtue is lacking, yet I have become emperor; I have not yet implemented the great principles of governance, and focusing only on small favors is not a good thing. Since autumn, a series of ominous signs have appeared, constantly warning me. For instance, Venus has entered the Southern Dipper, Jupiter has offended Xuanyuan, Mars has collided with the Fang constellation and is in conjunction with Saturn, and meteors are streaking across the night sky, falling from the southeast.

The Southern Dipper governs nobility and rank, the Xuanyuan constellation corresponds to the imperial harem, the Fang constellation represents the decision-making center of the court, the conjunction of Mars and Saturn foretells disaster, and meteors are a sign of military calamity. Could it be that because officials do not abide by the rules, and the harem concubines interfere in politics, leading to chaos in governance, that disasters are about to come? These ominous signs are so obvious and so severe. I look to heaven and observe the people's feelings below, and I am truly afraid! I will temporarily relocate from the sleeping palace, fast and meditate, wear simple clothing and eat sparingly, remove decorations, remove hanging items, and treat everything with sincerity, to allow my subjects to speak freely.

I wish that punishments are not abused, rewards should be commensurate with ranks, talent selection relies on true ability and knowledge, and the imperial harem emphasizes moral cultivation. These words should be conveyed to all officials within and outside the court, with the hope that everyone will work together, follows the will of the people, and thus resolves heavenly retribution.

So, I forwent the ceremonial guard and retinue and went to Tianxing Palace. All officials submitted memorials urging me to return to normal eating and living habits, and I agreed. On the day of Jiazi, I returned to the palace. In the Zhengwu Hall, I summoned all officials, palace maids, and inner court women, and organized a grand performance of music and dance, even allowing the Hu ethnic group to perform a winter begging act, splashing water on each other as a form of entertainment. On the day of Yichou, I went to Luoyang. I personally rode a relay horse myself, covering three hundred miles in a day. Four empresses and hundreds of civil and military officials rode relay horses in my wake. I also ordered the carriages of the four empresses to move in unison; those who lagged behind would be punished, and both horses and riders were exhausted. On the day of Jimao, I returned to the palace.

In January of the year 580, the emperor received morning worship at Daohui Garden. On this day, which was the day of Guisi, he visited the Grand Ancestral Temple to offer sacrifices. On the day of Yisi, he commissioned two decorative pieces, each adorned with sun and moon patterns, placed on the left and right sides respectively. On the day of Wushen, it began to rain mixed with snow. After the snow stopped, a fine yellow dirt rain fell, which only ceased after some time. On the day of Yimao, the emperor issued a decree exempting the newly affiliated residents of Jiangzuo from taxes for twenty years, and those who first began collecting taxes in the market only took one coin from each person.

On the Ding Si day in February, the emperor attended the ceremony of learning and offering sacrifices at Lu Men. On the Wu Wu day, the Turks sent envoys to offer various tributes and requested to marry the esteemed princess. On the Yi Chou day, the emperor changed the edict to read as "Tian Zhi Zhao" and the decree to "Tian Chi." On the Ren Wu day, Empress Dowager Tian Yuan was elevated to Empress Dowager Tian Yuan Shang, and Empress Dowager Li was honored as Empress Dowager Tian Yuan Sheng. On the Gui Wei day, Yang was established as Empress Dowager Tian Yuan, Zhu as Empress Dowager Tian, Yuan as Empress Dowager Tian You, and Chen as Empress Dowager Tian Zuo; the empress of Zhengyang Palace was referred to simply as the empress. On that day, in Luoyang, a gathering of bald eagles assembled in front of the New Camp of the Tai Chi Hall; in Xingzhou, a black dragon appeared, fighting with a red dragon by the Bian River, which resulted in the black dragon's demise.

On the day of Dinghai in March, the emperor ordered a grand banquet for the officials and the common people. The edict stated: "After great virtue, the reputation endures; merits are conferred upon the people, and righteousness shines upon the sacrificial rites. Confucius' virtues are preserved through history, and the truth gives rise to knowledge. Entrusted with the fortunes of the ages, he embodies the talent of a great sage, carrying forward the Confucian cause and promoting moral principles. Regarding the profound praises of the principles governing heaven and humanity, they shape the duties of rites and music, thus serving as a model for all kings, leaving a legacy for generations. I respectfully accept the precious history, internalizing the teachings, cherishing the rivers Zhu and Si, and deeply embracing the Way. Moreover, to commend the achievements and honor the past, although the old facts are made evident, the sacred merits are still not adequately recognized. He may be posthumously honored as the Duke of Zou, with the territory adjusted according to the old standards, and a successor established. A temple shall be specifically built in the capital for timely sacrifices." On the day of Wuzi, the commander of the army, Duke Liang Shiyan of Qi, rebelled, attacking the army marshal, Duke Wei Xiaokuan of Yun, in Yuzhou. Liang Shiyan was defeated and captured, and Wei Xiaokuan executed him. On the day of Xinmao, Duke Yongchang, Chen, was appointed as the Duke of Qi, succeeding the position of Duke Jian Lian. The emperor traveled to Tongzhou, with tight security along the route, accompanied by attendants, stretching for dozens of miles, banners shading the sky, drums and music resounding, the imperial guard cavalry riding horses and holding weapons, vigilantly protecting the emperor until reaching Tongzhou. On the day of Yimai, the emperor ordered the palace in Tongzhou to be renamed Tiancheng Palace. On the day of Gengzi, the emperor returned from Tongzhou. The emperor ordered the officials of the Tiantai guards to wear multicolored garments or red, purple, and green, with mixed colors as trim, called "colored garments." For important occasions, they were to wear these garments, while on ordinary days they would wear official attire or casual clothes. On the day of Renyin, the emperor ordered that both internal and external ladies of the court must hold a ceremonial tablet and bow in reverence at the ancestral temple and Tiantai. On the day of Jiachen, the title of Empress of Tianzhong was conferred, and the Chen family was granted the title of Empress of Tianzhong, while the Weichi family was granted the title of Empress of Tianzuo.

On the Yichou day of April, a star the size of a dipper appeared in the sky, that appeared from the Tianchu constellation, moving into the Purple Palace, and disappearing upon reaching the Gouchen constellation. On the Jisi day, the emperor went to the ancestral temple to offer sacrifices. On the Jimao day, the emperor issued a decree saying: "I possess limited abilities and am not well-versed in the art of governance. I cannot achieve harmony between heaven and earth, nor can I balance yin and yang. From spring to summer, the rainfall has been insufficient, and I am greatly concerned about potential agricultural failures. I worry day and night and do not dare to be negligent. This is due to my failure to fully implement virtuous governance, and there have been many mistakes in my policies and laws, causing suffering to the common people, with the responsibility falling on my shoulders. I wish to grant generous clemency and extend it to all. All prisoners sentenced to death shall have their sentences commuted to exile, and those in exile shall have their sentences reduced to penal servitude, with all sentences of five years or less being pardoned. As for those who rebel, commit treason, or act disloyally and unjustly, as well as those not included in the general amnesty, they are not subject to this decree." On Renwu day, the emperor traveled to Zhongshan to pray for rain, and upon arriving at Xianyang Palace, rain began to fall. On the Jiashen day, the emperor returned to the palace and commanded the people of the capital to play music in the streets to welcome him. On the Jichou day in May, he appointed Yang Jian, the Grand General and Duke of Sui, as the governor of Yangzhou. In the early hours of Jiazi, the emperor rode in the imperial carriage to Tianxing Palace. On the Yiwei day, the emperor felt unwell and returned to the palace. The emperor issued a decree summoning Duke Yang Jian of Sui to the palace to attend to his illness. On the Jiachen day, a star the size of three dippers appeared in the sky, emerging from the Taiwei constellation and flowing into the Wing constellation, producing a sound like wind blowing through a drum. On the Dingwei day, he summoned King Zhao, King Chen, King Yue, King Dai, and King Teng to court. On the Jiyou day, the emperor's health deteriorated. The Grand Minister Liu Fang and the Grand Minister Zheng Yi forged a decree permitting Duke Yang Jian of Sui to assume the role of regent. On that day, the emperor passed away in Tiande Hall at the age of twenty-two and was posthumously titled Emperor Xuan. On the Bingshen day in July, he was laid to rest in Dingling.

When the crown prince was still in the Eastern Palace, Emperor Gaozu felt that he was unworthy and would never be able to become emperor, so he was particularly strict with him. Every morning during court, the crown prince was required to follow the same rules as the other officials, with no leniency whatsoever, regardless of the biting cold or sweltering heat. The crown prince, already fond of drinking, was explicitly forbidden from receiving wine in the Eastern Palace. If he committed even the slightest infraction, Gaozu would punish him. He once told the crown prince, "Many crown princes in history have been deposed; can’t my other sons become emperor?" Gaozu also had the officials in the Eastern Palace record the crown prince's words and actions, reporting them to him every month. Fearing Gaozu's severity, the crown prince pretended to be diligent to hide his shortcomings, so his misdeeds never got out.

Once he became emperor, he could no longer contain himself and did whatever he wanted. When Emperor Gaozu had just passed away and had not yet been buried, the crown prince showed no signs of grief and even went to see the late emperor's palace maids, forcing them into illicit encounters. In just over a year of being emperor, he became addicted to indulgence and began to collect beautiful women from across the realm for his harem. He reveled in showing off and concealing his mistakes, and he refused others' advice. After abdicating, he squandered excessively, indulged in wine and carnal pleasures, and sometimes did not show his face for over ten days while hiding in the harem. Ministers who wanted to see him had to go through the eunuchs to relay their messages. The palace he resided in was lavishly adorned with gold, jade, and jewels, gleaming and luxurious to the extreme. Later, he also built a palace in Luoyang, which, though still unfinished, was grand and magnificent, far surpassing the palaces of the Han and Wei dynasties.

The emperor, speaking of him, held himself in high esteem and regarded no one as worthy. He arbitrarily changed the national system and court etiquette as he pleased. The titles of the concubines in the harem were not properly documented. He often referred to himself as "Heaven" to his ministers and decorated the Tian De Hall where he lived with five-colored earth, with colors that matched the cardinal directions. Even more outrageous, he dined in the harem with the empress and her companions using fine vessels meant for ancestral worship. He also mandated that all ministers who came to see him at the Heavenly Terrace must fast for three days and cleanse themselves for one day beforehand. His vehicle flags and attire were far more numerous than any previous emperor's.

Since he compared himself to God, he did not want anyone to rival him. One time, wearing a heavenly crown adorned with a golden cicada, he saw attendants and nobles sporting golden cicadas or wearing jade sashes and immediately commanded them to take off these items. He also prohibited anyone from using terms such as "tall" or "great," changing all surnames that included the character "高" (meaning "tall") to "姜," and modifying the term for "ancestor" across nine generations from "高祖" (high ancestor) to "长祖" (long ancestor), with "曾祖" (great-grandfather) replaced by "次长祖" (next long ancestor). Any official titles containing "上" (upper) or "大" (great) were changed to "长" (long), and those with "天" (heaven) were similarly altered. He also decreed that all vehicles in the country must have wheels made of solid wood, and prohibited all women from wearing makeup, permitting only palace maids to ride in vehicles with spokes and wear makeup.

Xi Yang Gong Wen was the child of Qi Guo Gong Liang and also the emperor's distant cousin. His wife, Wei Chi, was beautiful, and during one visit to the palace, the emperor forcibly made her drink and then assaulted her. Upon hearing this, Liang, fearing for his life, raised an army to revolt. The emperor executed Wen and then summoned Wei Chi to the palace, first making her a concubine and later proclaiming her as empress.

The emperor summoned his ministers to discuss affairs, only wanting to try out new gimmicks, constantly switching things up, and never discussing serious matters. Later, he became even more obsessed with pleasure, living a completely unstructured life, going out at all hours, with a grand entourage that would leave in the morning and not come back until night. Sometimes he would go to Tianxing Palace, and other times he would visit Daohui Garden to play, leaving his officials completely worn out. Various songs, dances, and performances, like fish-dragon shows, paraded before him all day. He also enjoyed having young guys from the capital dress up in women's clothes and dance for him and the concubines in the palace, getting a kick out of it.

He shoved his close ministers aside, particularly paranoid about others. Moreover, he was barely rewarding anyone. Fearing that the ministers would advise him and prevent him from realizing his ideas, he often sent people to secretly monitor them, and their actions and words were all recorded. Even the slightest deviation from his wishes meant instant punishment. Countless were severely beaten, executed, dismissed, or demoted, with a number too high to count. Each beating was a brutal one hundred and twenty strikes, which he ironically called "Heavenly Rod." The palace maids and eunuchs faced the same treatment. Even favored concubines, regardless of how favored they were, often ended up battered and bruised.

As a result, both inside and outside the palace, people lived in fear, all wanting to survive without drawing attention, with no one daring to hold onto their own ideas, living in constant trepidation until his death.

The historian said: Emperor Gaozu knew that his son was not a talented person, but because of the patriarchal system, he placed great importance on him. This favoritism resembled that of Emperor Wu of Jin, but when compared to Emperor Xuan of Song, it was lacking. He only wanted to use strict measures to intimidate his son, hoping that his son would become more alert because of it, but was this really an effective way to educate him? As a result, it led to a foolish and tyrannical ruler, with treacherous and unscrupulous people running rampant, doing nothing good and committing one atrocity after another. Even if all the bamboo slips from Nanshan were used to record his wrongdoings, it still wouldn’t be enough; even if all the ink and brushes of Dongguan were used to document his crimes, it would still be unending. Yet, he managed to survive, while his son didn’t make it—how fortunate he was!