The founding monarch of the State of Jin, Tang Shuyu, was the son of King Wu of Zhou and the younger brother of King Cheng of Zhou. King Wu, while with Shuyu's mother, dreamt that someone in the sky told him, "I give you a son, Yu, and I will give him the land of Tang." When the child was born, the character "Yu" miraculously appeared on his hand, so he was named Yu according to the instructions in the dream.
After King Wu died, King Cheng took the throne. There was a rebellion in Tang, which was quelled by the Duke of Zhou. One day, King Cheng played with Shuyu and fashioned a jade gui from a paulownia leaf to give to Shuyu, saying, "This makes you a vassal." The historian Shi Yi requested a lucky day to enfeoff Shuyu. King Cheng said, "I was just joking with him." Shi Yi replied, "You can't take the emperor's word lightly. What the emperor says has to be recorded, there's a ceremony, and a song has to be written." Therefore, King Cheng officially gave Shuyu the land of Tang. Tang was located east of the Yellow River and Fen River, a hundred miles in every direction, hence he was called Tang Shuyu. His surname was Ji, and his courtesy name was Zi Yu.
Tang Shuyu's son, Tang Shu Xie, became the Marquis of Jin; his son, Ning Zu, became Marquis Wu; Marquis Wu's son, Fu Ren, became Marquis Cheng; the son of Marquis Cheng, Fu, became Marquis Li; and the son of Marquis Li, Yi Jiu, became Marquis Jing. Starting from Marquis Jing, the specific chronology can be deduced. From Tang Shuyu to Marquis Jing, there were a total of five generations, but the exact years are not recorded in historical records.
During the seventeenth year of Marquis Jing's reign, King Li of Zhou was a terrible, cruel ruler, leading to a peasant uprising. King Li fled to Zhi, and the state affairs were handled by the ministers, a period called the "Republic."
After Marquis Jing died in his eighteenth year of reign, his son Li Hou Situ succeeded him. Li Hou reigned for fourteen years, and King Xuan of Zhou ascended the throne. Eighteen years later, Li Hou died, and his son Xian Hou Ji succeeded him. After reigning for eleven years, Xian Hou died, and his son Mu Hou Fei Wang succeeded him.
After four years on the throne, Duke Mu married a woman named Jiang from Qi. In the seventh year, he went to war with Tiao and had a son named Qiu. In the tenth year, he took on a vast territory and achieved military success. He also had a son named Chengshi. The minister of Jin, Shi Fu, said, "Man, those names are weird! 'Qiu' means enemy! And 'Chengshi' means 'to achieve great things'! You pick the names, but fate decides what happens. With names like that for your heir and his half-brother, how can Jin not end up in a mess?"
After reigning for twenty-seven years, Duke Mu passed away, and his brother Shangshu seized power. Prince Qiu escaped. Shangshu ruled for three years until King Xuan of Zhou passed away. Three years later, Prince Qiu, Duke Mu's son, led his men to attack Shangshu, reclaiming the throne and becoming Duke Wen of Jin.
Duke Wen ruled for ten years. King You of Zhou was a terrible ruler and was killed by the Quanrong, causing the Zhou dynasty to move eastward. Meanwhile, Duke Xiang of Qin was now counted among the vassal states.
In 780 BC, after Duke Wen of Jin passed away, his son, Duke Zhao, succeeded to the throne. In his first year of rule, Duke Zhao made his brother Chengshi the ruler of Quwo. Quwo was larger than the capital city of Jin, Yicheng, and Chengshi was popular there, known as Huan Shu. At the age of fifty-eight, Huan Shu was well-regarded, and many people in Jin rallied around him. Privately, people were saying, "Jin's heading for a fall, and it'll all start in Quwo! That guy's more popular than the king himself – trouble's brewing, for sure!"
Seven years later, the minister Panfu of Jin killed Duke Zhao and installed Huan Shu of Quwo as the ruler. Huan Shu tried to enter the capital city, but the people of Jin united against him. Huan Shu was defeated and retreated to Quwo. The people of Jin then made Duke Zhao's son, Ping, their new ruler – Duke Xiao of Jin – and they also killed Panfu.
During the eighth year of Duke Xiao's rule, Huan Shu of Quwo passed away, and his son, Xun, succeeded him, taking the title of Duke of Quwo. In the fifteenth year of Duke Xiao's rule, the Duke of Quwo actually killed Duke Xiao of Jin! The Jin people weren't about to let that slide, so they attacked Quwo. Xun was forced to retreat back to Quwo. The Jin then appointed Duke Xiao's son, Qi, as king, who became known as Duke E.
In the second year of Duke E's rule, Duke Yin of Lu had just taken the throne. Six years later, Duke E kicked the bucket. When Xun of Quwo heard about Duke E's death, he immediately led troops to attack Jin. King Ping of Zhou sent Duke Guo to fight Xun, who had no choice but to retreat to Quwo. The Jin then appointed Duke E's son, Guang, as king, who became known as Duke Ai of Jin.
In the second year of Duke Ai's rule, the Duke of Quwo croaked, and his son, Cheng, succeeded him, taking the title of Duke of Quwo. In the sixth year of Duke Ai's rule, Lu killed their own king, Duke Yin. In the eighth year of Duke Ai's rule, Jin invaded Xingting, and Xingting and the Duke of Quwo joined forces. In the ninth year, they defeated Jin by the Fen River and captured Duke Ai. Jin had no choice but to appoint Duke Ai's son, Xiaozi, as king, who became known as Duke Xiaozi of Jin.
In the first year of Duke Xiaozi's rule, the Duke of Quwo sent Han Wan to kill the captured Duke Ai of Jin. Quwo became stronger, and Jin had no way to deal with it.
In the fourth year of Duke Xiaozi's rule, the Duke of Quwo played a trick and lured Duke Xiaozi of Jin to be killed. King Huan of Zhou sent Guo Zhong to punish the Duke of Quwo, who retreated back to Quwo and later appointed Jin Ai's brother, Min, as king of Jin.
In the fourth year of Duke Min's rule, Song captured Jie Zhong of Zheng and appointed Tu as the king of Zheng. In the nineteenth year of Duke Min's rule, Guan Zifu of Qi killed their own king, Duke Xiang.
In the twenty-eighth year of the Jin marquis, Duke Huan of Qi started calling the shots among the other states. Later, Duke Wu of Quwo defeated the Jin marquis, destroyed his country, and handed over all the loot to King Li of Zhou. King Li of Zhou made Duke Wu of Quwo the ruler of Jin, and a vassal lord to boot, thus completely unifying the territory of Jin. It's like one local lord conquering another, seizing their land, and then giving the spoils to the Emperor to get the job officially sanctioned.
Duke Wu of Quwo ruled Jin for thirty-seven years before changing his name to Duke Wu of Jin. He was the first to move the capital of Jin to Jin. Before that, he ruled Quwo for a total of thirty-eight years. Basically, he was a Quwo lord for ages before becoming the official ruler of Jin and moving the capital.
Duke Wu of Jin was the great-grandson of Duke Mu of Jin and the grandson of Huan Shu, the Quwo lord. Huan Shu was the first person to be appointed as a vassal in Quwo. Duke Wu of Jin was the son of Duke Zhuang. From Huan Shu's appointment as Quwo lord to Wu's conquest of Jin, it took sixty-seven years. In the end, Duke Wu replaced the original ruler of Jin and became a vassal of Jin. He ruled Jin for two years before dying, making his total reign thirty-nine years (including his time in Quwo). After his death, his son Duke Xian succeeded him.
In Duke Xian's first year, King Hui's brother rebelled, attacked him, and sent him fleeing to Liyi in Zheng.
In the fifth year, Duke Xian defeated the Li Rong, captured Li Ji and her brother, and made a right fuss over them.
Eight years into his reign, the minister Shi Shuang advised Duke Xian, "In the past, Jin had many princes. If we do not kill them all, there will definitely be a rebellion in the future." So Duke Xian had all the princes killed, then built walls around the capital, naming it Jiāng (modern-day Jiang), which became the capital of Jin from then on. This story illustrates how, in order to consolidate his rule, Duke Xian heeded treacherous advisors and killed all his brothers.
Nine years later, the princes of Jin fled to the state of Guó, leading to Guó attacking Jin twice but failing both times. In the tenth year, Jin wanted to attack Guó, but Shi Shuang suggested, "Let's wait until they cause chaos themselves before taking action."
It is said that in the twelfth year of Duke Xian's reign, his most beloved concubine Li Ji gave birth to a son named Xi Qi. Duke Xian wanted to depose the crown prince Shen Sheng, so he found an excuse, claiming that Quguo, near the ancestral temple; Pu, bordering Qin; and Qu, bordering Di—were unsuitable places for his sons. So he arranged for the crown prince Shen Sheng to be sent to Quguo, his son Chong Er to be sent to Pu, and his son Yi Wu to be sent to Qu, while he and Li Ji's son Xi Qi lived in Jiāngdū. Everyone in Jin could see that the crown prince Shen Sheng was going to be deposed. By the way, Shen Sheng's mother was the daughter of Duke Huan of Qi, named Qi Jiang, who had passed away earlier. Shen Sheng's half-sister married Duke Mu of Qin. Chong Er's mother was the daughter of the Hu clan of Di, and Yi Wu's mother was the younger sister of Chong Er's mother. Duke Xian had a total of eight sons, and the three sons Shen Sheng, Chong Er, and Yi Wu were all very talented. But after Li Ji's arrival, he grew distant from these three capable sons.
Sixteen years ago, Duke Xian of Jin led troops into battle, splitting them into two columns of troops. Duke Xian commanded the upper column himself, while Crown Prince Shensheng led the lower column. Zhao Su served as the charioteer, and Bi Wan was the commander of the right column. Together, they attacked and destroyed the states of Huo, Wei, and Geng. After the battle, Duke Xian had the city of Quwo built for Crown Prince Shensheng, rewarded the land of Geng to Zhao Su, and the land of Wei to Bi Wan, making them nobles. A man named Shi Yu said, "The Crown Prince has no chance this time! Giving him fiefdoms and arranging a position for him is clearly setting him up for a fall! It's better to escape now before committing a major crime and regretting it later! Why not follow Tai Bo of Wu's example and make a name for himself by leaving?" Crown Prince Shensheng did not heed his advice. Another man named Bu Yan said, "The descendants of Bi Wan will surely prosper!" He explained, "'Wan' means ten thousand, signifying abundance; 'Wei' suggests greatness. The vast land granted to Bi Wan is a heavenly blessing! The Son of Heaven governs the millions, and the feudal lords govern the tens of thousands. Now, granting such a large fiefdom to Bi Wan fits the fullness of the number 'Wan,' and his descendants will surely prosper!" It is said that initially, Bi Wan divined to become an official in the state of Jin, and the divination yielded the Tun and Bi hexagrams. A diviner named Xin Liao interpreted, "Auspicious! ‘Tun’ means building strength, and ‘Bi’ means unity—a perfect combination for success, and a sure sign of prosperity for his descendants!"
Seventeen years later, the Marquis of Jin sent Crown Prince Sheng to attack Dongshan. Li Ke advised Duke Xian of Jin, "The Crown Prince is responsible for offering sacrifices to the ancestors and serving you in your daily life, so he is called the heir apparent. When you're away at war, he's in charge here; that's how it's always been. Leading troops in battle requires independent strategy; swearing to go to war is a plan for the monarch and the country, and these are not things the Crown Prince should handle. The army only follows orders; he'd look weak taking orders, but bossy giving them – neither's good for a prince. If you let the Crown Prince lead the troops, he can't command respect from the enemy or earn your trust, so what good is he?" Duke Xian said, "I've got plenty of sons; I haven't decided on my heir yet." Li Ke didn't say anything else and left, then went to see the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince asked Li Ke, "Are you saying they're going to dump me?" Li Ke said, "Crown Prince, you must work hard! Learn the ropes of warfare; as long as you don't make major mistakes, what are you afraid of? Furthermore, you should fear being disrespectful, not fear not being able to be the Crown Prince. Just keep your nose clean and don't go picking fights, and you'll be fine." Later, the Crown Prince led the troops to battle, and Duke Xian personally dressed him in his finest robes and gave him a golden pendant. Li Ke feigned illness to avoid going. The Crown Prince eventually went to attack Dongshan.
Nineteen years later, Duke Xian of Jin said, "My grandfathers put down a rebellion, but Guo helped the rebels and even hid one of our princes – that's why they're in trouble now. If we do not punish them, it will leave troubles for future generations." So, he sent Xun Xi to ask Yu for safe passage, using Qu Chan's best wagons. Yu State agreed to provide passage, and Jin attacked Guo State, capturing its city of Xiayang, then marched back home.
Duke Xian privately said to Lady Li, "I want to depose the crown prince and make Xi Qi the crown prince." Lady Li cried and said, "The crown prince has been established as the crown prince, all the noblemen know about it, and he has led troops into battle multiple times; the people all support him. How can you ditch the rightful heir and put your side dude in charge just because of me? I'm just a nobody! If you must do this, I will commit suicide!" While Lady Li openly praised the crown prince, she secretly started a smear campaign against him, aiming to have her own son become the crown prince.
In the 21st year of Duke Xian of Jin, Lady Li said to the crown prince Shen Sheng, "You dreamt of Lady Qi, hurry and go to Quwo to sacrifice to your mother Lady Qi, then offer the sacrificial meat to Duke Xian." The crown prince did as told and offered the meat sacrificed to Lady Qi to his father Duke Xian. At that time, Duke Xian was out hunting and the meat was left in the palace. Lady Li had someone poison the meat.
Two days later, Duke Xian returned from hunting and the chef brought the meat for him to eat. Duke Xian was about to eat when Lady Li stopped him and said, "This meat was brought from a faraway place; it's best to try it first." So they first offered sacrifices to the land, the land cracked open; then fed it to the dogs, and the dogs died; and then fed it to some low-level schmuck, who also died. Lady Li cried and said, "How can the crown prince be so ruthless! The guy wants to off his own dad to grab the throne—can you even imagine? Moreover, you are old and could kick the bucket any minute; he can't even wait till you're six feet under to take over, huh?"
Li Ji told Xian Gong, "The reason why the Crown Prince did this is all because of me and Xi Qi. I hope you can send me and Xi Qi to another country. If I had committed suicide earlier, the mother and son would not have been butchered by the Crown Prince like animals. When you wanted to oust the Crown Prince back then, I thought it was a pity, but now I see that I was totally wrong!" After hearing this, the Crown Prince fled to Xincheng. Xian Gong was furious and killed the Crown Prince's teacher, Du Yuankuan. Some people advised the Crown Prince: "Li Ji is the one who poisoned you; why don't you explain it yourself?" The Crown Prince said, "My father is old. Even if it wasn't Li Ji who poisoned him, he wouldn't be able to sleep well or eat properly. If I explain, my father will only get angrier; it's not possible." Another person suggested, "You can flee to another country." The Crown Prince replied, "Who'd take me in with this hanging over my head? I can only commit suicide." On the Wushen day of the twelfth month, Shensheng committed suicide in Xincheng. At this time, Chong Er and Yi Wu paid their respects to Xian Gong. Someone told Li Ji, "The two princes blame you for framing the Crown Prince." Li Ji was afraid, so she went to set up the two princes: "Shensheng ate the poisoned meat, and the two princes knew about it." Chong Er and Yi Wu, upon hearing this, were very scared. Chong Er fled to Pucheng, and Yi Wu fled to Qucheng, both bolstering their defenses. Initially, Xian Gong sent Shi Feng to build Pucheng and Qucheng for the two princes, but Shi Feng slacked off. Yi Wu informed Xian Gong about this, and Xian Gong was very angry, blaming Shi Feng. Shi Feng explained, "There are rarely any enemies attacking border cities; what's the use of building city walls?" Then he sang a song, "With fox fur and rabbit skin, a country with three lords, who should I follow?" In the end, Shi Feng still built the cities. After Shensheng's death, Chong Er and Yi Wu returned to their cities, fortifying their positions.
So, the story goes that in the twenty-second year of Jin Xiangong's reign, because his two sons left without informing him, he smelled a rat and led troops to attack the state of Pu. In Pu, there was a eunuch named Bodi who ordered Chong'er to commit suicide. Quick as a flash, Chong'er escaped by climbing over a wall. Bodi caught up and even cut off a corner of Chong'er's clothes. Chong'er then escaped to the state of Zhai. Jin Xiangong sent troops to attack the state of Qu, but the city of Qu held out.
In the same year, Jin asked Yu for passage, preparing to attack Guo. Gong Zhiqi of Yu hurriedly advised the ruler of Yu, saying, "Don't let Jin cross our land; they're totally gunning for us!" The ruler of Yu said, "We're related; they wouldn't dare attack us, would they?" Gong Zhiqi continued, "Tai Bo and Yu Zhong? Sons of Tai Wang, right? Tai Bo gave up the throne. Guo Zhong and Guo Shu? King Wen's guys, their achievements are all written down in the royal records! So Jin's wiping out Guo – they'll care about little old Yu? Yu and Guo are like lips and teeth! Lose your lips, your teeth freeze! Huan and Zhuang messed with Jin and got wiped out. Are we closer than they were?" The ruler of Yu did not listen to advice and agreed to Jin's request. Gong Zhiqi skipped town with his family. That winter, Jin destroyed Guo, and Guo's ruler, Guo Gongchou, fled to the Zhou dynasty. Then Jin turned on Yu, capturing the ruler of Yu and ministers Jingbo and Baili Xi, and gave them away as a wedding gift to Qin Mugong before finally offering sacrifices to the ancestors of Yu. Xun Xi presented the horse previously left to Yu's Qu Chan to Jin Xiangong, who smiled and said, "Yep, that's my old nag, just a little long in the tooth!"
After the twenty-second year, in the twenty-third year, Duke Xian of Jin sent Jia Hua and others to attack the Qu state, which was quickly overwhelmed. Yi Wu planned to escape to the Zhai state. Ji Rui advised him, "No, Prince Chong Er is already in the Zhai state. If you go now, Jin will definitely send troops to attack Zhai, and Zhai fears Jin. It'll cause trouble for both of us, and we will be in danger. It's better to go to the Liang state, which is close to the Qin state. Qin is powerful. After he's gone, we can always go to Qin." So Yi Wu fled to the Liang state. In the twenty-fifth year, Jin attacked the Zhai state. Thanks to Chong Er, Zhai fought against Jin at Nie Sang, and the Jin army was defeated and retreated.
At that time, Jin was very powerful, west, it bordered Qin; north, it had Zhai; and east, Henei. Li Ji's brother fathered Daozi.
In the summer of 651 BC, Duke Huan of Qi held a meeting of noblemen at Kuiqiu. Duke Xian of Jin was ill at the time and had intended to go but encountered Kong, the prime minister of the Zhou dynasty on the way. Kong advised Duke Xian, "Duke Huan of Qi is too arrogant now, not focusing on virtue, only on military campaigns. The lords are dissatisfied. What's the harm in skipping it?" Due to his severe illness, Duke Xian returned. When he was very ill, he said to Xun Xi, "I want to appoint Xi Qi as the heir, but he is too young and the court officials do not support him. It may cause chaos. Can you help me place him on the throne?" Xun Xi said, "Yes." Duke Xian asked, "How can you prove that you can do it?" Xun Xi replied, "Bring the dead back to life, and make sure nobody's embarrassed, and you've proven yourself." So Duke Xian entrusted Xi Qi to Xun Xi. Xun Xi became the prime minister and took control of Jin's political power.
In September, Duke Xian of Jin died. Li Ke and Pi Zheng plotted to support Chong'er as the ruler, using Duke Xian's three sons and their followers to create chaos. They said to Xun Xi, "Those three princes are about to revolt. The state of Qin and some people from Jin will support them. What's your plan?" Xun Xi replied, "I can't go back on my word to the late Duke." In October, before they buried Duke Xian, Li Ke killed Xi Qi next to the coffin. Xun Xi realized his own life was in danger; he was advised to support Daozi, Xi Qi's younger brother, and help him rule. Xun Xi supported Daozi and buried Duke Xian. In November, Li Ke killed Daozi. Xun Xi also died as a result.
People say the Book of Songs' line about a blemish on jade applies perfectly to Xun Xi: his words had irreversible consequences. When Duke Xian planned to attack the Li Rong, the divination warned of disaster. They conquered the Li Rong, taking Li Ji captive. The Duke's infatuation with her plunged Jin into chaos.
Li Ke and his faction had already killed Xi Qi and Dao Zi. They sent people to welcome Prince Chong'er in the state of Zhai, hoping to establish him as the ruler. Chong'er declined, saying, "I fled because of my father's orders. My father has passed away, and I have not been able to fulfill my duties as a son to serve in the funeral rites. How can I dare to go back? Guys, you should choose someone else." This news was reported back to Li Ke, and they sent people to welcome Prince Yi Wu in the state of Liang. Yi Wu wanted to go, but Lü Xing and Xi Rui said, "We've got plenty of princes right here; why are we looking outside? It makes no sense! It's better to go to the state of Qin first and seek the help of the powerful state of Qin to enter the state of Jin; otherwise, it's very dangerous." So they let Xi Rui take a hefty bribe for Duke Mu of Qin, agreeing, "If we can enter the state of Jin smoothly, we will give the land west of the Yellow River in Jin to the state of Qin." At the same time, they wrote a letter to Li Ke, saying, "If I become king, I will grant you the cities of Fenyang." Duke Mu of Qin then sent troops to escort Yi Wu into the state of Jin. Duke Huan of Qi heard that there was chaos in the state of Jin, so he led the army of vassals to the state of Jin. The Qin army and Yi Wu also arrived in the state of Jin. Duke Huan of Qi sent Xi Peng to escort Yi Wu into the state of Jin together with the state of Qin, and he was enthroned as the ruler of the state of Jin, known as Duke Hui. Duke Huan of Qi turned back at the Jin border.
In the first year of Duke Hui of Jin, he sent his envoys, Pi Zheng, to Qin to apologize, saying, "My lord, Duke Hui previously promised you the land west of the river. Now, having thankfully ascended the throne, my court advised, 'The land west of the river belongs to the late ruler. After the late ruler passed away, you fled abroad. How can you arbitrarily give the land to Qin?' My pleas fell on deaf ears, so I have come to apologize to Qin." He did not grant the cities of Fenyang to Li Ke, but instead took away his power. In April, King Xiang of Zhou, along with envoys from Qi and Qin, formally invested Duke Hui. Duke Hui, worried about Li Ke's loyalty while Chong Er remained abroad, ordered the execution of Li Ke. Duke Hui said to Li Ke, "If it weren't for you, how could I have become ruler? But you killed two rulers and a minister. As my subject, I cannot simply overlook your actions." Li Ke replied, "My lord, without removing obstacles, how could you have risen? Was there any other way? I acted as I did. I accept my punishment." After speaking, he drew his sword and committed suicide. Pi Zheng's mission to Qin was still underway, so the matter was left unresolved.
The State of Jin reburied Prince Shen Sheng, son of Crown Prince Gong. In autumn, Fox Tuo (a Jin official) went to other countries as an envoy and encountered the ghost of Shen Sheng on the way. Shen Sheng got on Fox Tuo's carriage and told him, "I've complained to Heaven, and I intend to cede Jin to Qin; they'll offer me sacrifices." Fox Tuo replied, "I heard that spirits don't usually accept offerings from those outside their family. That seems a bit much, don't you think? Maybe you should reconsider!" Shen Sheng said, "Alright, I'll ask Heaven again. Ten days later, in a secluded spot west of Xin Cheng, a wizard will see me." Fox Tuo agreed, but later did not see Shen Sheng again. On the agreed day, Fox Tuo went to that place again, and sure enough, there was Shen Sheng. Shen Sheng told Fox Tuo, "Heaven's promised punishment for the wicked; Han will be the first to suffer." Then Shen Sheng sang a song: "Crown Prince Gong has been reburied; fourteen years later, Jin will not prosper; his brother (Chong'er) will prosper."
Pi and Zheng sent envoys to Qin, and upon hearing that Li Ke had been killed, they persuaded Duke Mu of Qin, "Lu Xing, Xi Cheng, and Ji Rui are actually not loyal to Duke Hui of Jin. Bribe them, oust Duke Hui, and put Chong'er on the throne – it's a sure thing." Duke Mu of Qin agreed, sent people to escort them back to Jin, and gave them a lot of money. These three thought, "Qin's showering us with cash and promises. Pi and Zheng must have sold us out!" So they killed the envoys of Pi and Zheng, as well as Li Ke's accomplices, a total of seven high-ranking officials. The Princes of Pi and Zheng fled to Qin and instigated Duke Mu of Qin to attack Jin, but Duke Mu did not listen.
After Duke Hui of Jin ascended the throne, he broke the agreement with Qin, killed Li Ke, and executed the seven high-ranking officials. The people in the country did not support him. Two years later, the Zhou Dynasty sent Duke Shou to visit Jin, and Duke Hui treated Duke Shou with blatant arrogance, prompting Duke Shou to criticize him.
Four years later, the state of Jin suffered from a famine and sought to purchase food from the state of Qin. Duke Mu of Qin asked Bailixi for advice, and Bailixi said, "Stuff like famines happens, and helping your neighbors out is the right thing to do. We should give them food." But some guys from Pi and Zheng said, "We should attack them!" Duke Mu of Qin replied, "Although Duke Hui of Jin is a bad person, what crime have the people of Jin committed?" In the end, Duke Mu of Qin still provided food to the state of Jin, from Yong right to Jiang.
Five years later, the state of Qin suffered from a famine and sought to purchase food from the state of Jin. Duke Hui of Jin discussed this matter, and Qing Zheng said, "Qin helped put Hui on the throne, but he totally screwed them over. They fed us when we were starving, so now they're starving, so why not just give 'em the food?" However, Guo She argued, "Heaven gave Jin to Qin, but Qin didn't appreciate it and just lent us the food instead. Now that heaven has rewarded Qin to Jin, can we defy fate? We should attack them!" Duke Hui of Jin accepted Guo She's suggestion, did not provide food to Qin, and instead sent troops to prepare to attack Qin. Qin was furious and also sent troops to attack Jin.
In the spring of 658 BC, Duke Mu of Qin led troops to attack Jin. Duke Hui of Jin asked Qing Zheng, "The Qin army's on the march, what do we do?" Qing Zheng replied, "Qin's a mess right now. And Hui broke his promise – he stiffed them on the bribe. They fed us when we were starving, but now we're doing the same to them. So yeah, them attacking us now makes total sense!" Duke Hui of Jin checked with the diviners, and Qing Zheng got good readings, but Hui said, "Qing Zheng's not listening!" So he swapped out his driver for Buyang and some servants and kept attacking.
In September, on a Renxu day, Duke Mu of Qin and Duke Hui of Jin clashed in a brutal battle at Hanyuan. Duke Hui's chariot horse balked, and with the Qin army closing in, Duke Hui was in dire straits, so he quickly summoned Qing Zheng to drive the chariot. Qing Zheng said, "Forget the divinations, we're toast!" and then left. Duke Hui then switched to Liang Yaomi to drive the chariot, with Guo She as his assistant, but ended up with Duke Mu's chariot bearing down on them. Duke Mu's warriors smashed through the Jin lines, and the Jin were routed, with Duke Hui captured instead of Duke Mu. The Qin planned to sacrifice Duke Hui to the heavens. Duke Hui's sister, in mourning, wept uncontrollably. Duke Mu said, "I was counting on taking him as a trophy, but look what happened! And anyway, I heard Jizi said Tang Shu's descendants would prosper. So, can we really wipe out Jin?" So, in the royal city, Duke Mu and Duke Hui made a deal: Duke Hui would be released.
Duke Hui of Jin sent Lü and others to convey a message to the Jin populace: "Although I can return to my country, I cannot face my ancestors' tablets. I have already chosen a date to establish Zi Yu as the crown prince." When the people of Jin heard this news, they all burst into tears. Duke Mu of Qin asked Lü, "How is the situation in Jin?" Lü replied, "Things aren't looking good. Those who stood to lose are desperate to establish Zi Yu as the crown prince, saying, 'We must seek revenge, even if it means throwing in our lot with the barbarians.' Meanwhile, the loyal subjects love and respect the monarch, know they are in the wrong, and await the orders of the State of Qin, saying, 'We must return Qin's favor.' Because of these two types of people, the kingdom is in turmoil." Therefore, Duke Mu of Qin changed his mind and no longer treated Duke Hui of Jin as a sacrificial offering, but held a lavish sacrifice for him. In the eleventh month, Duke Mu of Qin sent Duke Hui of Jin back to Jin. After returning to his country, Duke Hui of Jin immediately killed Qing Zheng, cleaned house, and brought about educational reforms. He secretly plotted, saying, "Chong'er's in exile, and many lords wanted him back." So he wanted to send someone to assassinate Chong'er in the Di state. After receiving the news, Chong'er escaped to the state of Qi. Eight years later, Duke Hui of Jin sent Crown Prince Yu as a pledge to Qin. Initially, Duke Hui of Jin had fled to the state of Liang, where the Marquis of Liang married his daughter off to him, and they had a son and a daughter. After divination, the Marquis of Liang learned that his son would become a minister and his daughter would become a concubine, so he named his son Yu and his daughter Qie. Ten years later, Qin conquered the state of Liang. The Liang ruler was obsessed with building projects, constructing walls and digging ditches, which exhausted the common people, who complained bitterly. Many people privately speculated, saying, "The Qin army is coming!" Panic spread like wildfire, and as a result, Qin indeed conquered the state of Liang.
After thirteen years, Duke Hui of Jin fell ill, and several of his sons in the palace wanted to vie for the throne. The Crown Prince Yu said, "My mother's family's in Liang, now conquered by Qin. I've got no clout in Qin, and no support back home. If you, the ruler, pass away, those bigwigs might just ignore me and pick another brother." So he planned to escape to Jin with his wife. His Qin wife said, "You're the crown prince! To have to put up with this! Qin put me here to keep you loyal. If you escape, I can't follow you, and I can't say anything." The Crown Prince Yu eventually fled back to Jin. In the ninth month of the fourteenth year, Duke Hui died, and Prince Yu took over as Duke Huai.
After Crown Prince Yu fled, Qin held it against him and wanted to support another son, Chong'er, to take the throne. Once Prince Yu was king, he was terrified of Qin attacking, so he ordered everyone who'd run off with Chong'er to get back by a certain date, or their whole families would be wiped out. Hu Tu's sons, Hu Mao and Hu Yan, who were following Chong'er in Qin at the time, refused to return. Duke Huai was furious and arrested Hu Tu. Hu Tu said, "I have served Chong'er for many years. Now you call him back, isn't this instigating him to rebel against you? What's that supposed to mean?" Duke Huai ultimately killed Hu Tu. The Qin king then sent troops to get Chong'er back, tipped off the Luan and Xi clans to help from the inside, and had Duke Huai bumped off, putting Chong'er on the throne. Chong'er succeeded to the throne, becoming Duke Wen of Jin.
Chong'er, the future Duke Wen of Jin, was the son of Duke Xian of Jin. He was a natural networker, even as a young man. By seventeen, he'd gathered a following of five key advisors: Zhao Shuai, Hu Yan, his uncle Jiu Fan, Jia Tuo, Xian Zhen, and Wei Wuzi. Chong'er was already grown by the time his father became crown prince. When Duke Xian ascended the throne, Chong'er was twenty-one years old. In the thirteenth year of Duke Xian's reign, thanks to Lady Li's scheming, Chong'er was posted to Pucheng to defend against the Qin. In the twenty-first year of Duke Xian's reign, Duke Xian killed Crown Prince Shen Sheng. Lady Li's machinations scared Chong'er off to Pucheng without a word to his father. In the twenty-second year of Duke Xian's reign, Duke Xian sent the eunuch Ludi to kill Chong'er. Chong'er scrambled over the wall, the eunuch hot on his heels, slashing at his robes. Chong'er then fled to his mother's homeland, the Di state. At that time, Chong'er was forty-three years old. These five, plus a few dozen others, joined him in the Di state.
So, Chong'er fled to the Di state, where he married two local women while his father ruled Jin. His older wife bore him two sons, Bo Zhuo and Shu Liu, while the younger married Zhao Shuai, having a son named Dun. Then Duke Xian died, plunging Jin into chaos. Li Rik, after killing Xi Qi and Daozi, decided to bring Chong'er back as ruler.
Chong'er was absolutely terrified when he heard about the plot against him, so he refused to return. Later, the state of Jin brought Chong'er's brother, Yi Wu, back to be their new king, Duke Hui of Jin. Duke Hui ruled for seven years, but he still feared Chong'er and sent a eunuch named Lv Di and some goons to off him. When Chong'er received the news, he quickly discussed with Zhao Shuai and the others: "Look, I didn't run off to Di to live there forever. It's just close to Jin, easy to keep in touch, so I've been laying low. I've been here long enough; time to move on to a bigger pond. Duke Huan of Qi is all about grabbing talent and ruling the world, bringing in everyone he can. Now that Guan Zhong and Xi Peng are both dead, Qi needs some serious help. Why don't we head over there?"
So Chong'er set off for the state of Qi. Before leaving, he told his wife from Di: "If I'm not back in 25 years, you're free to move on." His wife smiled and said, "Honey, in 25 years, I'll be six feet under. But I'll still be waiting for you." Chong'er stayed in Di for a total of twelve years before leaving.
Passing through the state of Wei, Duke Wen of Wei didn't even give him the time of day. Continuing on his journey, he reached Wulu, where he was starving and had to beg for some grub. A villager served him rice in a clay bowl, which angered Chong'er. Zhao Shuai quickly persuaded him: "Hey, a clay bowl means they've got food and land. Just eat it!"
When Chong'er arrived in Qi, Duke Huan of Qi treated him like gold, even marrying off his daughter and giving him twenty horses. Chong'er lived comfortably in Qi for two years. But then Duke Huan kicked the bucket, Qi went nuts, and other states started attacking, so Chong'er stayed in Qi for another five years. He was crazy about the Qi princess and couldn't bear to leave.
Later, Zhao Sui and Jiu Fan discussed leaving the Qi state under a mulberry tree. The princess's maid overheard their conversation and told the princess. The princess killed the maid and urged Chong Er to leave quickly. Chong Er said, "Hey, life's about enjoying yourself, who knows what tomorrow brings? Even if I kick the bucket, I'm not leaving." The Qi princess said, "You're a Jin prince, down on your luck here, and your guys treat you like their whole world. You don't go back and repay them, but you're all lovey-dovey here? I'm embarrassed for you! And if you don't hustle, when are you gonna make it big?" So, she and Zhao Sui planned together, got Chong Er smashed, and then took him away.
After walking a long way, Chong Er woke up, very angry, and pulled his sword to kill Jiu Fan. Jiu Fan said, "Killing me will fulfill your great cause, this is my wish." Chong Er said, "If this whole thing goes south, I'm eating your father-in-law!" Jiu Fan replied, "If this whole thing goes south, my flesh'll be all tough and nasty, what's the point?" Chong Er then stopped and continued on the road.
They arrived in the Cao state, where Duke Cao was a real jerk to him, even wanting to check if Chong Er had any weird ribs. The Cao minister Li Fuzhi said, "The Prince of Jin's a good guy, and he's one of us. How can we not show him some respect when he's down on his luck?" Duke Cao did not listen to his advice. Fuzhi secretly sent some food to Chong Er, placing a jade bi under the food. Chong Er accepted the food and returned the jade bi to him.
After leaving the Cao state, they arrived in the Song state. Duke Xiang of Song had just been defeated by the Chu state in the Battle of Hongshui and was injured. He heard that Chong Er was wise and gave him the royal treatment. The Song state's Sima, Gongsun Gu, knew Jiu Fan well and said, "Song's a small fry, just got beat up, ain't gonna get us anywhere. We gotta go somewhere bigger." So they left the Song state.
When he arrived in Zheng State, Duke Wen wasn't very hospitable to Chong'er. Shuzhan, a Zheng official, advised the ruler, saying: "The Jin prince is sharp, and his followers are all ministers from various states, and we're kin. Zheng State is descended from King Li of Zhou, while Jin State is descended from King Wu of Zhou." Duke Wen of Zheng said: "Loads of exiled princes show up here – I can't treat them all like royalty!" Shuzhan replied: "If you don't treat him with respect, you might as well just kill him, to nip it in the bud." Duke Wen ignored him.
Chong'er fled to Chu. King Cheng of Chu greeted him with the full honors due a visiting prince, but Chong'er declined, saying he didn't deserve such an honor. Zhao Shuai said, "You've been exiled for over a decade; even small fry wouldn't give you the time of day, let alone a major power. Now that the powerful state of Chu is treating you with such respect, you should not refuse; it's a sign from Heaven!" So Chong'er accepted the king's hospitality. King Cheng of Chu warmly entertained Chong'er, who behaved very humbly. King Cheng asked, "If you return to your country, how do you plan to repay me?" Chong'er said, "Your Majesty has more feathers, horns, jade, and silk than you know what to do with – I couldn't possibly repay you!" King Cheng said, "Even so, how do you plan to repay me?" Chong'er replied, "If all else fails, when our armies meet on the plains, I'll cede you three campsites." Chu's General Ziyu exploded, shouting, "The king has treated the prince of Jin so well, and now Chong'er speaks so disrespectfully, asking the king to kill him!" King Cheng said, "The Prince is brilliant, despite his years in exile, and his followers are all top-notch. This is fate; we can't kill him. Besides, how could we ever make up for it?" Chong'er stayed in Chu for several months. At this time, the crown prince of Jin fled to Qin, causing Qin to hold a grudge against Jin. When they heard that Chong'er was in Chu, they sent someone to bring him back. King Cheng said, "Chu is far from Jin; you have to pass through several countries to get there, while Qin borders Jin, and Duke Mu of Qin is wise. You better hurry on your way!" Then he gave Chong'er a grand send-off.
When Prince Chong'er arrived in the state of Qin, Duke Mu of Qin married off five of his daughters to him, and even included Crown Prince Yu's wife. Chong'er did not want to accept, but Jizi, the Sikong, said, "Qin is about to attack the state of Jin, not to mention she is his original wife! You should accept this marriage in order to consolidate the friendly relationship between Qin and Jin and seek a way to return to your country. Why get hung up on formalities and ignore the bigger picture?" So Chong'er accepted. Duke Mu of Qin was very happy and drank with Chong'er. Zhao Sui sang the poem *Shu Miao*. Duke Mu of Qin said, "I know how eager you are to get back home." Zhao Sui and Chong'er bowed together and said, "Your Highness, we loyal ministers depend on you like thirsty crops depend on rain." This was autumn, the fourteenth year of Duke Hui's reign. In September, Duke Hui passed away, and Crown Prince Yu succeeded to the throne. In November, Duke Hui was buried. In December, Jin officials like Luan and Xi heard that Chong'er was in the state of Qin and secretly came to persuade him and Zhao Sui to return to their country. There were also many people in Jin who supported them. So Duke Mu of Qin sent troops to help Chong'er return to Jin. When Jin's army was mobilized in response to the news of the Qin army's approach, everyone secretly knew that Chong'er was coming back. Only Duke Hui's former powerful ministers, the Lu and Xi families, opposed Chong'er's succession. Nineteen years of exile ended when Chong'er, now sixty-two, finally returned to a Jin overwhelmingly in his favor.
In the spring of 636 BC, the state of Qin escorted Chong'er to the Yellow River. Jiu Fan said, "I have made too many mistakes serving you in your travels through the various states. I am well aware of these mistakes, let alone you. Please let me leave!" Chong'er replied, "If you return to the state of Jin, let the river decide our fate!" Then, Chong'er threw the jade bi into the Yellow River and made an oath with Jiu Fan. At that time, Jie Zi Tui was also on the boat, smiling and saying, "The heavens are helping you return to your country, but Jiu Fan is taking all the credit and demanding a reward from you, which is truly shameful! I refuse to be implicated in his actions." So, Jie Zi Tui quietly crossed the Yellow River himself.
The Qin army surrounded Linghu, while the Jin army camped in Luliu. On the day of Xinchou (the 11th day of the second month), Jiu Fan formed an alliance with the officials of Qin and Jin in Xun. On the day of Renyin, Chong'er joined the Jin army. On the day of Bingwu, Chong'er entered Quwo. On the day of Dingwei, Chong'er met with the ministers in Wugong and became the ruler of the state of Jin, known as Duke Wen. The court paid homage. The son of Duke Huai, Yu, fled to Gaoliang. On the day of Wushen, Duke Wen ordered Duke Huai's death.
Duke Wen's predecessors, Lü Xing and Xi Rui, hadn't supported him from the start. Once Duke Wen took the throne, fearing for their lives, they and their cronies plotted to torch the palace and off him. Duke Wen was completely unaware of this. The eunuch, Lü Di – who'd previously tried to bump off Duke Wen – learned of their plot and wanted to report to Duke Wen to redeem himself, asking to see him. Duke Wen blew him off, sending a message: "In Pucheng, you nearly did me in! And later, while I was hunting with the Di king, you showed up on behalf of Duke Hui, trying to get me killed. We agreed on three days, but you came after one! What gives? Think about it!" The eunuch replied, "I barely escaped with my life, and I wouldn't dream of betraying you, so forgive my earlier offense. Now that you're back, you still gotta bring up Pucheng and Di? Haven't you heard of Guan Zhong? He hit a hook with an arrow, and look what happened to Duke Huan! A punished man comes to warn you, and you ignore him? You're asking for trouble!" So Duke Wen met with him, and Lü Xing, Xi Rui, and their crew's conspiracy was revealed.
Duke Wen wanted to call them in, but they had too many supporters, and he feared the people would turn on him so soon after his return. So he went undercover, met secretly with Duke Mu of Qin in Wangcheng, and nobody was the wiser. On the Ji Chou day of the third month, Lü Xing, Xi Rui, and their crew rebelled, torching the palace but missing Duke Wen. Duke Wen's guards fought back, and Lü Xing and his men tried to run. Duke Mu of Qin tricked them, then had them whacked by the Yellow River, ending the Jin rebellion. Duke Wen made it back. That summer, Duke Wen brought his wife back from Qin, and she became his wife. Qin sent 3,000 men as bodyguards, just in case.
Duke Wen of Jin reorganized the court, treating the people well. He rewarded those who followed him into exile and those who had achievements, giving land to the big shots and promotions to the rest. Before the rewards were fully distributed, King Xiang of Zhou sent his brother, all the way to Zheng, to beg Jin for help. Jin was just getting back on its feet, ready to send troops, but worried about more trouble brewing elsewhere, so the rewards had not reached those who were in seclusion, like Jiezitui. Jiezitui didn't ask for anything, so he got nothing.
Jiezitui said, "There were nine people who followed the prince into exile, and now only you are still alive. Hui and Huai have no trusted aides and have been abandoned both inside and out. Heaven hasn't abandoned Jin. Someone will inherit the throne, and it's obviously you. So why take all the credit? That's dishonest, isn't it? Stealing from others is called theft; how much more so is it to covet the credit from Heaven and claim it as your own? Those below conceal their faults, while those above reward the wicked, deceiving each other. How can such a situation be tolerated?" His mother said, "Why not also go and request rewards? Who're you gonna blame if you die?" Jiezitui replied, "I've already made a mistake. To seek rewards again would only compound the offense. Besides, if I speak out, I won't accept his rewards." His mother asked, "Even if he knows your thoughts, what difference does it make?" Jiezitui answered, "Words are a person's reputation; I wish to live in seclusion. Why should I care about reputation? To care about reputation is to seek fame!" His mother said, "Can you really do this? Then let us live in seclusion together." So Jiezitui and his mother vanished into the mountains, never to be seen again.
Jie Zitui's followers felt sorry for him, so they posted a notice at the palace gate, which read: "A dragon soared to heaven with five snakes. Four returned to their dens once it reached the clouds, but one stayed, bitter and lost." When Duke Wen of Jin came out and saw this notice, he said, "That's Jie Zitui. I haven't gotten around to thinking about rewarding him yet." So he sent someone to summon him, but he had already escaped. Duke Wen went looking for him everywhere and heard that he was living in Mianshan. Therefore, Duke Wen ordered to block Mianshan, gave Jie Zitui Mianshan as a gift, and named it Jieshan, "to show how sorry I am and honor this great man."
Hushu, a humble minister who followed Duke Wen of Jin into exile, said, "You have rewarded deserving people three times, but you have not rewarded me. I deserve to be punished." Duke Wen of Jin replied, "Look, guiding me towards what's right, showing me the better way—that's the best reward. Helping me reform and succeed? Second best. Fighting bravely, working hard—that's also second best. Just doing the work, without helping me improve? That's the lowest reward. You're next in line." Everyone in Jin was really touched by this.
In the spring of 636 BC, the Qin army was on the verge of attacking the Zhou royal court, ready to invade. Zhao Suai stepped forward and said, "The best way to dominate is to support the Zhou king and enhance the prestige of the Zhou royal house. The Zhou dynasty and the Jin state are of the same bloodline. If Jin does not support the Zhou king first and lets Qin take the lead, what appeal will Jin have in the world? Now's the perfect time to boost the Zhou king; this is the capital for Jin to dominate!" On the third day of the third month, Jin sent troops to Yangfan, surrounded Wendi, and escorted King Xiang back to the Zhou capital. In April, Jin also killed King Xiang's younger brother Dai as a show of strength. In order to thank Jin, King Xiang gave the territories of Henei and Yangfan to Jin. Four years later, King Cheng of Chu united with other vassal states to besiege the state of Song. Song urgently sought help from Jin. Xian said, "Repaying Song's kindness while establishing our hegemony—now's our chance!" Hu Yan added, "Chu had just taken Cao and formed an alliance with Wei. If we attack Cao and Wei, Chu will definitely come to their aid, and Song will be relieved." So Jin organized three armies. Zhao Suai recommended Xi Hu to command the central army, assisted by Xi Zhen; Hu Yan led the vanguard, supported by Hu Mao; and Luan Zhi commanded the rearguard, with Xian as his second-in-command. Zhao Suai himself was appointed a minister. Xun Linfu managed the charioteers, with Wei Jie as his deputy, and then they set off in grand fashion. In December of that winter, the Jin army first captured the eastern Shandong region, and then Duke Wen of Jin rewarded Zhao Suai.
In the spring of 634 BC, Duke Wen of Jin wanted to attack Cao, planning to pass through Wei, but the Wei people did not agree. The Jin army had to bypass from the south bank of the Yellow River to attack Cao, and also to give Wei a good thrashing. In the first month, the Jin army seized Wulu. In the second month, Duke Wen of Jin and Duke Huan of Qi formed an alliance in Lianyu. The Wei ruler wanted to form an alliance with Jin, but the Jin people did not agree. The Wei ruler wanted to seek refuge with Chu, but the Wei people did not agree, so he had to step down to appease Jin. The Wei ruler lived in Xiangniu, and Gongzi Mai was responsible for guarding Wei. Chu came to rescue Wei, but was unsuccessful. The Jin army surrounded Cao. On the third day of the third month, the Jin army entered Cao. Duke Wen of Jin criticized the ruler of Cao for not following the advice of his loyal advisors, but instead favoring three hundred beautiful women who rode in luxurious carriages. He also ordered his troops to avoid the homes of the loyal advisors, showing his gratitude. At this time, Song was besieged by Chu and once again sought help from Jin. Duke Wen of Jin wanted to save Song by attacking Chu, but because of the previous favor Chu had shown to Jin, he was stuck between a rock and a hard place. He also considered ignoring Song, but since Song had also shown favor to Jin in the past, he was in a real bind. Xian Zhen then said, "Capture the ruler of Cao, and divide some of the land of Cao and Wei to Song. This way, Chu will be busy dealing with Cao and Wei, and will naturally withdraw its troops to rescue Song." Duke Wen of Jin took Xian Zhen's advice, and King Cheng of Chu promptly withdrew.
General Ziyu of the State of Chu said, "Your Majesty is so friendly with Jin. Knowing Chu's preoccupied with Cao and Wei, attacking them now—isn't that a slap in the face?" The King of Chu replied, "Jin's been in exile nineteen years, suffered plenty. If he gets back, he's seen hardship, knows how to handle his people. It's destiny, can't be stopped!" Ziyu requested, "I can't promise victory, but this'll shut those gossips up." The King of Chu was angry and only gave him very few troops. So Ziyu sent Wanchun to tell the State of Jin, "Please restore the Marquis of Wei's title, reward the State of Cao, and I will also make the State of Song cease hostilities." Jufan, a minister of Jin, said, "Ziyu is too rude. Jin gets one thing, Chu wants two. No way." Xianzhen said, "World peace is the real courtesy. Chu just decided the fate of three states (Cao, Wei, and Song) with one sentence. You can take that away from him just as easily. So why bother with niceties? Refusing Chu means losing Song. Better to secretly agree with Cao and Wei, lure them in, grab Wanchun to piss Chu off, then figure things out after the fight." The Marquis of Jin then imprisoned Wanchun in the State of Wei and privately agreed to restore the titles of Cao and Wei. Cao and Wei then cut off relations with Chu. When Chu learned that the minister Wanchun was imprisoned, they were very angry and attacked the army of Jin, causing the Jin army to retreat. The officers asked, "Why retreat?" Duke Wen said, "We used to retreat three li (thirty miles) in Chu. Let's double it!" The Chu army wanted to leave, but General Ziyu disagreed. On the fourth month's Wuchen day, the Song Duke, Qi and Qin armies, and the Marquis of Jin met at Chengpu. The next day, Jisi, they slammed into the Chu army—and won. Ziyu and his stragglers ran. By Jiawu, the Jin army was back in Hengyong, building a palace on the conquered land.
At first, Zheng State helped Chu State. After Chu State was defeated, Zheng State became afraid and sent messengers to request a pact with the Duke of Jin. The Duke of Jin then teamed up with the Earl of Zheng.
On the day of Dīngwèi in May, the Duke of Jin presented the captured Chu prisoners of war to the Zhou Emperor, along with a hundred four-horse chariots and one thousand infantry soldiers. The Zhou Emperor appointed Prince Hu of Jin as the leader of the vassals, granting him a fancy carriage, a hundred red bows and arrows, a thousand top-of-the-line bows and arrows, a jug of ceremonial wine, some jade trinkets, and three hundred elite guards. The Duke of Jin declined three times before finally bowing and accepting. The King's decree read: "Your father (Duke Xian of Jin) based his actions on righteousness, glorifying the achievements of King Wen and King Wu, and was able to carefully promote noble character, shining brightly above, with blessings spreading below. Just as the mandate of heaven was passed down to King Wen and King Wu. You have inherited the legacy of the former kings and continue to hold your royal position." Thus, the Duke of Jin became the top dog among the vassal states. On the day of Guǐhài, Prince Hu of Jin formed an alliance with the vassals in the royal court.
The Jin army crushed the Chu army, and the resulting fire raged for days. Yet, the Duke of Jin sighed. Those around him asked, "You have won against Chu State, why are you still so worried?" The Duke of Jin replied, "I heard that only a sage can remain unharmed after victory in battle, that's why I am afraid. Besides, the chief minister of Chu, Ziyu, is still alive. What is there to be happy about?" Later, Ziyu returned to Chu in defeat. King Cheng of Chu, angered by Ziyu's refusal to heed his advice and insistence on fighting Jin, scolded him harshly. Ziyu eventually committed suicide. It was then that the Duke of Jin said, "I struck them from the outside, and Chu State internally executed Ziyu. This internal and external response has finally resolved the issue." Finally, he felt a sense of relief.
In June, the Jin army once again brought the Wei king back. On the day of Renwu, Duke Wen of Jin crossed the Yellow River and returned to his country. After returning, Duke Wen of Jin handed out rewards, with Hu Yan ranked first. Some people said, "The victory at the Battle of Chengpu was due to Xian Zhan's tactics!" Duke Wen of Jin said, "The victory at the Battle of Chengpu was because Hu Yan advised me not to break my promise to others. Xian Zhan once said, 'In military matters, victory is the most important,' and I accepted his advice to achieve victory. However, this was a quick fix at the time, while Hu Yan considered the long-term gains! Can't we see the bigger picture here? That's why Hu Yan was placed first."
In winter, Duke Wen of Jin met with the vassals in Wendu, intending to lead them to pay homage to the Zhou king. However, his strength was not enough, and he was worried that someone would betray him, so he spread rumors that King Xiang of Zhou was hunting in Heyang. On the day of Renshen, Duke Wen of Jin led the vassals to Jiantu to pay respects to the king. When Confucius read this passage about Duke Wen of Jin in the "Records of the Grand Historian," he pointed out that phrases like "the vassals didn't summon the king" and "the king was hunting in Heyang" were typical Spring and Autumn Period polite ways of putting things.
On the day of Dingchou, the vassals surrounded the Xu state. The Cao officials advised Duke Wen of Jin, saying, "Duke Huan of Qi united the vassals but did not eliminate fellow vassals, while you are now uniting the vassals and getting rid of your kin. Cao state is descended from Shu Zhenduo, Jin state is descended from Tang Shu. By uniting the vassals and exterminating your own brothers, you are not playing by the rules!" Upon hearing this, Duke Wen of Jin reinstated the Earl of Cao.
So, the Jin state began to implement a three-army system, with Xun Linfu as the commander of the central army, Xian Hu as the commander of the right army, and Xian Nie as the commander of the left army.
Seven years later, Duke Wen of Jin and Duke Mu of Qin besieged the state of Zheng because Zheng had been disrespectful to Duke Wen while he was in exile and had also aided the state of Chu during the Battle of Chengpu. The siege of Zheng aimed to capture the minister Shuzhan. Upon hearing this, Shuzhan committed suicide. Zheng then took Shuzhan's body to Jin and said, "We have killed Shuzhan; is this satisfactory?" Jin replied, "We will only be satisfied when we capture Zheng's ruler." Fearing this, Zheng secretly sent someone to Qin and suggested, "It would be advantageous for Jin if Zheng were destroyed. Jin has benefited, but Qin has not. Why not withdraw your troops and act as a host, fostering friendly relations between our two countries?" Upon hearing this, Duke Mu of Qin withdrew his troops. Jin also withdrew its troops.
In the winter of the ninth year, Duke Wen of Jin passed away, and his son Duke Xiang succeeded him. In the same year, Zheng's ruler also died.
Some folks in Zheng wanted to sell out to Qin. Upon hearing this, Duke Mu of Qin immediately led his troops to attack Zheng. By December, the Qin army had already reached the outskirts of Zheng. By the spring of Duke Xiang's first year, the Qin army rolled into Zhou territory like they owned the place, drawing harsh criticism from the Zhou royals. When the Qin army reached Huadi, a Zheng merchant named Xianguo happened to be on his way to Zhou to do business. He encountered the Qin army on the way and used twelve oxen to reward the Qin soldiers. This surprised the Qin army, who promptly retreated after destroying Huadi.
Xianzhen said, "The Qin king did not listen to Jian Shu's advice but instead disregarded his troops' morale. This is a good opportunity for us to attack!" However, Luan Zhi replied, "Shouldn't we repay our ancestors' kindness first? It may not be appropriate to attack now." Xianzhen became anxious and exclaimed, "The Qin have shown no respect for our widows and orphans! They even attacked our kinsmen. What favor do we owe them?" Therefore, the Jin state decided to send troops. At that time, Duke Xiang was still in mourning attire, wearing a mourning cap. In the fourth month, the Jin army defeated the Qin army in the battle of Xáo, capturing three Qin generals: Meng Mingshi, Xi Qishu, and Bai Yibing, and brought them back to Jin. It was only after this that Duke Wen received a proper burial. Duke Wen's wife was a princess of the Qin state, who told Duke Xiang, "The Qin will demand those generals back and kill them." Duke Xiang agreed to her request and prepared to send the three generals back. When Xianzhen heard about this, he hurried to inform Duke Xiang, "This is a grave mistake!" So Xianzhen personally led troops to pursue the Qin army. The Qin generals were about to cross the river when they hastily prostrated themselves and begged for mercy, but in the end, they did not dare to go back.
Three years later, the Qin state indeed sent Meng Ming to attack the Jin state, seeking revenge for the defeat in the battle of Xáo, and also took the city of Wangyi before returning. In the fourth year, Duke Mu of Qin raised troops again to attack us, crossed the Yellow River, captured the strategic outpost of Wangguan, and took away the bodies of those who died in the battle of Xáo. The Jin were too terrified to retaliate, so they had to quickly fortify their defenses. In the fifth year, the Jin state attacked the Qin state, recapturing Xincheng, avenging the occupation of Wangguan.
In the sixth year, Zhao Suai, Chengzi, Luan Zhenzi, Jiuzi, and Huobo all passed away. Zhao Dun succeeded Zhao Suai as the ruler. In August of 657 BC, Duke Xiang of Jin passed away. The young Prince Yi Gao was still a child. Some people in the Jin state wanted to appoint an older prince as the ruler for various reasons.
Zhao Dun said, "We should install Yong as ruler, the younger brother of Duke Xiang. He is a good man, older, and well-liked by our late ruler. Moreover, he has good relations with the state of Qin, which has always been on good terms with us. A strong country needs a capable ruler, and having an older ruler makes for a smoother transition. It's only right to respect the late ruler's wishes, and keeping our good relationship with Qin will keep the peace."
Jia Ji, however, said, "It's better to crown Le, another younger brother of Duke Xiang. Chen You was the mistress of two previous rulers, and the people will surely support her son."
Zhao Dun countered, "Chen You's status is lowly, not even ranking among the nine concubines. What claim does her son have? Moreover, her past as a favorite concubine of two late rulers is immoral. Her son, due to his mother's connections, failed to gain a good position in the state of Jin and ended up in the small and distant state of Chen. A mother with such a past and a son exiled to a distant land lack the necessary prestige; Chen is small and far away, with no external support. This is simply unacceptable!"
So Zhao Dun sent Shi Hui to Qin to welcome Prince Yong, while Jia Ji also sent someone to Chen to summon Prince Le. Zhao Dun later fired Jia Ji for killing Yang Chu, his father.
In October, Duke Xiang of Jin was buried. In November, Jia Ji fled and went to the state of Zhai. That year, Duke Miao of Qin also passed away.
In April of 656 BC, Duke Kang of Qin said, "When Duke Wen of Jin returned to his country without a guard, it led to the disasters of the Lu and Xi families." So Duke Kang of Qin provided Prince Yong with many guards. The mother of the Crown Prince, Lady Miao, cried day and night holding the Crown Prince in the court, saying, "What did the late ruler do wrong? What did his son do wrong? Bypassing his rightful heir, what's going to happen to this poor kid?"
After crying, she brought the Prince to Zhao Dun, bowed, and said, "The old king entrusted this child to me and instructed me, 'If this child is talented, it is my blessing; if this child is not talented, I blame you.' Now that the old king has passed away, his words still echo in my ears. Yet you want to abandon him—what's the deal?"
Zhao Dun and the other ministers feared Miǔ Míng and her potential retaliation, so they went against their previous decision and made Prince Yí Gāo the ruler, Duke Ling of Jin. They also sent troops to intercept the Qin escort accompanying Young Lord Yōng. Zhao Dun personally led the troops to attack Qin, defeating the Qin army. Xiān Miè and Suí Huì escaped and fled to Qin. In the autumn, the rulers of Qi, Song, Wei, Zheng, Cao, Xu, and other states came to meet Zhao Dun, forming an alliance in Hù, because Duke Ling of Jin had just ascended to the throne.
In 636 BC, Jin attacked Qin and captured Shào Liáng. The Qin state took advantage of this and seized the Jin state's Xiào territory. Four years later, Duke Kang of Qin launched another attack on Jin and took control of Jī Mǎ. The Duke of Jin was furious and sent Zhao Dun, Zhao Chuān, and Xì Quē to lead the army in a counterattack, engaging in a large-scale battle in Hé Qū, where Zhao Chuān made significant contributions. A year later, the six Jin ministers worried that Suí Huì, who was being held hostage in Qin, would bring disaster to Jin, so they feigned Wèi Shòu Yú's rebellion and surrender to Qin. Qin sent Suí Huì to Wèi, but Wei returned Sui Hui to Jin.
In 634 BC, King Heng of Zhou's death plunged the court into a power struggle. Jin skipped King Zhou's funeral. Jin dispatched Zhao Dun with eight hundred chariots to quell the Zhou rebellion and install King Kuāng. In the same year, King Zhuāng of Chu had just ascended to the throne. In 628 BC, the people of Qi killed their ruler, Duke Yì of Qi.
In 626 BC, after Jin Linggong grew up, he became a real party animal, fleecing the common folk and building lavish palaces. He even made a sport of shooting people for target practice, pelting them with stones to see them dodge. Once, when the chef failed to cook the bear paw properly, Jin Linggong blew a gasket, killed the chef, and had a maid carry the chef's body out to be dumped, but the body passed through the court. Zhao Dun and Sui Hui repeatedly advised him, but Linggong wouldn't listen. Later, they saw a dead body and advised him again. Sui Hui was the first to advise, but it was of no use. Jin Linggong was livid and sent Chu Xi (a hired assassin) to assassinate Zhao Dun. Zhao Dun's house was heavily guarded, and he kept a tight schedule. When Chu Xi saw that the assassination was unsuccessful, he sighed, saying, "Killing a loyal minister, going against the king's orders, it's all the same crime!" After saying that, he ran himself through on a tree and died.
Earlier, Zhao Dun often went hunting on Shoushan Mountain and saw a guy who looked like he hadn't eaten in days under a mulberry tree. This guy was later known as "Mi Ming." Zhao Dun gave him food, but he only ate half of it. When Zhao Dun asked him why, he said, "I've been an official for three years, and I still don't know if my mother is alive. I want to save the food for her." Zhao Dun was really moved, so he gave him more food and meat. Later, this guy became the chef of the State of Jin, but Zhao Dun no longer recognized him. In September, Duke Ling of Jin hosted a banquet for Zhao Dun, secretly ambushing warriors to attack him. Chef Mi Ming learned about this and was worried that Zhao Dun would get drunk and not be able to leave, so he advised, "The king's given you good wine; three cups and you're good to go." He wanted Zhao Dun to leave first to avoid any mishaps. Just as Zhao Dun left, Duke Ling's ambush had not yet acted, and Duke Ling released a fierce dog named "Ao." Mi Ming fought the dog to protect Zhao Dun and killed it. Zhao Dun said, "Using a dog? Even a mean one, what's that gonna do?" He did not know that Mi Ming was secretly protecting him. Afterwards, Duke Ling released the ambush to chase Zhao Dun, but Mi Ming fought back against Duke Ling's ambush, preventing them from advancing, and Zhao Dun finally got away. Zhao Dun asked why he'd saved him, but Mi Ming didn't say a word and took off.
Zhao Dun fled, but had not yet escaped Jin territory. In the year of Yi Chou, Zhao Dun's brother Zhao Chuan killed Jin Ling Gong in the peach garden and then supported Zhao Dun. Zhao Dun originally held a high status and was deeply loved by the people; Ling Gong was young and extravagant, so the common people did not support him, making his killing understandable. Zhao Dun once again became the chief minister. Jin state historian Dong Hu published in the history books: "Zhao Dun killed his sovereign," and made it public. Zhao Dun said, "It was Zhao Chuan who killed Ling Gong; I am not guilty!" Historian Dong Hu replied, "As chief minister, when the country is in such chaos and you did not escape the country but instead returned, isn't the responsibility yours?" Confucius, upon hearing this, commented, "Dong Hu, they say, was one of the greatest historians of antiquity, never shying away from the truth. Zhao Dun is also a good statesman, but he has borne the blame for this incident. Unfortunately, only by escaping from Jin can he be off the hook."
Zhao Dun sent Zhao Chuan to the Zhou dynasty to welcome the younger brother of Duke Xiang, Hei Tun, and established him as the ruler of the state, Jin Cheng Gong. Jin Cheng Gong was the youngest son of Duke Wen of Jin, and his mother was a princess of the Zhou dynasty. In the year of Ren Shen, Cheng Gong went to the Wu Palace to pay his respects to the emperor.
In the first year of Cheng Gong's reign, Jin Cheng Gong ennobled the Zhao clan. Jin attacked Zheng for betraying them. Three years later, the new ruler of Zheng switched its allegiance to Jin and abandoned Chu. Chu was angry and attacked Zheng, so Jin sent troops to help.
In the sixth year, Jin attacked Qin and captured the general Chi of Qin.
In the seventh year, Jin Cheng Gong and King Zhuang of Chu vied for power and summoned the vassal states in Hu territory. Chen state was afraid of Chu and did not attend. Jin then sent Zhongxing Huanzi to attack Chen, rescue Zheng, and fought the Chu army, defeating them. That year, Jin Cheng Gong passed away, and his son Jing Gong succeeded to the throne.
In the first year of King Jing's reign, nobleman Xia Zhengshu of the State of Chen killed their lord, King Ling. Two years later, King Zhuang of Chu attacked the State of Chen and killed Xia Zhengshu. In the third year, King Zhuang of Chu besieged the State of Zheng, and Zheng sought help from the State of Jin. Jin appointed Xun Linfu as the commander of the central army, Hui as the commander of the upper army, Zhao Shuo as the commander of the lower army, and Xie Ke, Luan Shu, Xian Hu, Han Jue, Gong Shuo, and others as deputy commanders to lead the troops. In June, the Jin army arrived at the Yellow River. It was said that the State of Chu had already made Zheng surrender, and the ruler of Zheng even stripped to the waist and swore fealty to Chu before leaving. Xun Linfu wanted to withdraw the troops. Xian Hu said, "We came to rescue Zheng; we can't go back before reaching the destination. It'll demoralize the troops." So the army crossed the Yellow River. With Zheng already surrendered, they withdrew under the pretext of watering their horses at the Yellow River. As a result, the Chu army and the Jin army still fought a major battle. Zheng had just surrendered to Chu, fearing Chu, but instead helped Chu fight against Jin. The Jin army was defeated, fled to the Yellow River, and fought to get across the river, the boats packed. The Chu army also captured our commander Zhi Ying. When they got back, Xun Linfu said, "I'm the commander; we lost – I deserve to die!" King Jing of Jin wanted to agree. Hui said, "Remember when Duke Wen whipped Chu at Chengpu? Now that they've beaten us, killing their commanders would just be doing their dirty work for them." So King Jing of Jin abandoned the idea of killing Xun Linfu. In the fourth year, Xian Hu, who had used bad tactics that led to the defeat of the Jin army at the Yellow River, fearing being killed, fled to the State of Zhai and conspired to attack the State of Jin. When Jin found out, they annihilated Xian Hu's entire clan. Xian Hu was the son of Xian Zhen.
In the fifth year, the State of Jin attacked the State of Zheng because Zheng had previously helped the State of Chu. This was revenge for an earlier Chu victory over Jin forces by the Yellow River, under the powerful King Zhuang of Chu.
In the sixth year, Chu attacked the State of Song, and Song sought help from Jin. Jin was inclined to help, but Minister Bo Zong cautioned, "Chu's too strong; we can't win." So Jin sent Jie Yangdai to pretend to rescue Song. Zheng seized Jie Yangdai and handed him to Chu. Chu rewarded him handsomely, and he was tasked with persuading Song to surrender. Jie Yangdai agreed, betraying Jin's plans to Chu. Chu considered killing him, but on second thought, let him go.
In the seventh year, Jin sent Sui Hui to eliminate the Chi Di.
In the eighth year, Jin sent Xi Ke as an envoy to the State of Qi. The Queen Mother of Qi sneered at Xi Ke's hunchback, figuring that since Lu and Wei had sent similarly disabled envoys, she'd do the same. She sent a similarly deformed envoy to meet him. Xi Ke was angry and said, "'If we don't get even with Qi, the Yellow River itself will rise up in protest!'" Upon returning to Jin, he requested to attack Qi. Jin Jing Gong inquired about the reason and said, "Don't drag the whole country into your personal beef!" He did not agree to Xi Ke's request. Wei Wenzi requested retirement, and Xi Ke took over his position and began to govern.
In 620 BC, with Chu's King dead, Jin attacked Qi. To avoid a war, Qi hastily sent its Crown Prince as a hostage to Jin.
Two years later, in the spring of 618 BC, Qi attacked Lu again and seized Long. Desperate, Lu appealed to Wei for help, and Wei, in turn, asked Jin for assistance. Jin obliged, dispatching Xi Ke, Luan Shu, and Han Jue with 800 chariots to join Lu and Wei against Qi. In the summer, the two sides battled at Andi, where Qi's Duke Qing was injured and almost captured. Duke Qing quickly thought of a plan, switched positions with someone beside him, took a sip of water in the chaos, and managed to escape. Qi was defeated, and Jin pursued them into Qi's territory. To secure peace, Duke Qing offered lavish gifts, but Jin insisted on Xiao Tong's nephew as a hostage. Qi's envoy argued, "That's the Duke's mother! She's like the Jin ruler's mother! How can you demand her? That's crazy! Let's fight!" Jin, finally agreeing to peace, withdrew.
At that time, Chu's Shen Gong Wu Chen snatched Xia Ji and ran off to Jin. Jin made Wu Chen a lord in Xingdi.
In the winter of 617 BC, Duke Qing of Qi went to Jin to try and get Jing Gong crowned emperor, but Jing Gong politely refused. During this time, Jin was reorganizing its army into six divisions, elevating Han Jue, Gong Shuo, Zhao Chuan, Xun Zhui, Zhao Kuo, and Zhao Zhan to high office. Zhi Ying returned from Chu.
In 616 BC, Duke Cheng of Lu went to Jin to pay his respects, but the Jin received him poorly. Angered, Duke Cheng of Lu left, leading to a falling out between Lu and Jin. Jin then went on to attack the State of Zheng and occupied Fandi.
In 614 BC, a landslide struck Liangshan. When someone asked Bo Zong about it, Bo Zong said, "No big deal."
In 612 BC, the general Zifan of the State of Chu had a grudge with 巫臣 (Wū chén) and wiped out Wū chén's family. Wū chén was furious and wrote a letter to Zifan saying, "I'll make sure you work yourself to death!" Then, Wū chén requested to go to the State of Wu and have his son become an envoy to teach the people of Wu how to drive and fight. This forged an alliance between Wu and Jin against Chu.
In 611 BC, Jin executed Zhao Tong and Zhao Kuo, wiping out their families. Han Jue said, "Can we forget the contributions of Zhao Shuai and Zhao Dun? How can we cut off their family line?" So, he allowed Zhao Wu, the son born out of wedlock of Zhao Tong and Zhao Kuo, to inherit the Zhao clan and gave him land.
In the summer of 609 BC, Duke Jing of Jin fell ill and appointed his son Shouman as the ruler, who became Duke Li of Jin. One month later, Duke Jing died.
In 617 BC, shortly after Duke Li ascended the throne, he wanted to get along with the other states and formed an alliance with Duke Huan of Qin by the river. However, as soon as the alliance was signed, Qin backed out and conspired with the Di people to prepare to attack Jin.
Three years later, Duke Li sent Lv Xiang to confront Qin and bring in other states to help attack Qin. They fought at the banks of the Jing River, defeated the Qin army at Masui, and captured the Qin general Cheng Cha.
Five years later, members of the Xishi families framed Bo Zong and had him executed. Bo Zong fell victim for speaking truth to power, causing the people of Jin to no longer support Duke Li.
In the spring of the sixth year, Zheng State betrayed Jin State and formed an alliance with Chu State, which made Jin State very angry. Luan Shu said, "We cannot lose the support of other vassal states just because of this minor setback!" So they sent troops. Duke Li personally led the troops and crossed the Yellow River in May. It was said that the Chu State army was coming to rescue, and Fan Wenzi advised Duke Li to withdraw the troops. However, Xi Zhi said, "We have already sent troops to suppress the rebels. If we retreat when we see the enemy is strong, how can we command the vassal states in the future?" So they continued to fight against the Chu army. On the 癸巳 day (a day in the lunar calendar), the Jin army shot the eye of King Gong of Chu, and the Chu army was defeated in Yanling. The main general of the Chu army, Zi Fan, rallied his remaining troops, trying to re-engage, which made the Jin army feel uneasy. King Gong of Chu summoned Zi Fan, and Zi Fan's attendant Shuyanggu offered him wine. Zi Fan, intoxicated, was unable to attend to the king's summons. King Gong of Chu was furious and blamed Zi Fan, who was then killed. The Chu King then withdrew his troops and returned to his country. Jin State, because of this victory, sent shockwaves through the vassal states and aspired to hegemony.
Duke Li of Jin especially favored a number of his concubines, and after returning to the country, he wanted to dismiss all his ministers and only leave the brothers of his concubines as officials. A brother of one of his concubines was named Xu Tong, who had a grudge with Xi Zhi. Because Xi Zhi did not adopt Luan Shu's strategy, which led to the defeat of Chu State, Xu Tong manipulated Xi Zhi into apologizing to Chu. Chu officials misled Duke Li, claiming, "The Battle of Yanling was actually Xi Zhi secretly colluding with Chu State, wanting to rebel, with his wife Zhou Shi's support, but their plans had been thwarted by insufficient preparation."
Duke Li of Jin told Luan Shu about this matter. Luan Shu said, "Sounds like it's true! I hope you can send someone to investigate secretly." So he sent Xi Zhi to investigate in the state of Zhou. Luan Shu also asked Duke Zhou's son to meet with Xi Zhi, who had no clue he was being set up. After Duke Li of Jin found out the truth, he blamed Xi Zhi and wanted him dead. Eight years later, Duke Li of Jin went hunting and drinking with his concubines. Xi Zhi offered Duke Li a pig, but a eunuch took it away. In a fit of rage, Xi Zhi shot the eunuch dead. Duke Li was furious and said, "Jizi (Xi Zhi's courtesy name) deceived me!" He was ready to execute the three Xi brothers but had not yet taken action. Xi Qi wanted to attack Duke Li, saying, "Even if I die, you're still screwed!" Xi Zhi said, "A loyal man doesn't betray his lord, a wise man doesn't hurt the people, and a brave man doesn't start a rebellion. I've failed on all three counts. Who's gonna help me now? I'm done for!" On the Renwu day of the twelfth month, Duke Li ordered Xu Tong to lead eight hundred soldiers to attack and kill them. Xu Tong took the opportunity to hold Luan Shu and Zhongxing Yan hostage in the court, saying, "If I don't get rid of you two, the Duke's gonna be next!" Duke Li said, "I can't stomach killing three ministers at once." Xu Tong replied, "Do you think people will stand for this?" Duke Li did not listen to him, apologized to Luan Shu and the others, saying that they were executed because of the crimes of the Xi family, and said, "The ministers can get back to their jobs." Luan Shu and Zhongxing Yan thanked him, and Duke Li appointed Xu Tong as a minister. In the intercalary month, on the Yimao day, Duke Li went to Li Shi to play. Luan Shu and Zhongxing Yan, together with their allies, attacked and seized Duke Li, imprisoned him, killed Xu Tong, and then sent people to welcome Duke Zhou's son back to the country to succeed to the throne. And that's how Duke Dao of Jin came to power.
In January of Duke Dao's first year, on Gengshen day, Luan Shu and Zhongxing Yan assassinated Duke Li, burying him with only one carriage. After six days of imprisonment, Duke Li died. Ten days later, on Gengwu day, Zhi Fu welcomed Prince Zhou to Jiang. After a sacrificial ceremony, he and the ministers swore an oath, installing Prince Zhou as ruler—the future Duke Dao. A court meeting was held at Wugong on Xinsi day. Duke Dao officially ascended the throne on Yiyu day of the second month.
Duke Dao (Zhou), whose grandfather Jie, son of Duke Xiang of Jin, was given the title Huan Shu without becoming ruler, was the highly favored Huan Shu fathered Hui Bo Tan, who in turn fathered Duke Dao. Duke Dao was only fourteen when he took the throne. Duke Dao said, "My grandfather and father both died far from home, never becoming rulers. I feel unworthy of this position. But thanks to you, ministers, and the blessings of our ancestors, who remember the ambitions of Dukes Wen and Xiang, I now inherit the Jin state's ancestral rites. How could I not serve with all my heart? I beg you, ministers, to support me!" He dismissed seven rebellious officials, reinstated past policies, showed benevolence, and promoted the descendants of ministers who had served Duke Wen. That autumn, Jin attacked Zheng, routing their army and pushing as far as Chen.
Three years later, the State of Jin and various vassal states held an alliance meeting. Duke Dao asked his ministers who were talented, and to everyone's surprise, Qi Xu recommended Xie Hu, who was Qi Xu's sworn enemy! Duke Dao then asked Qi Xu to recommend his son Qi Wu. Everyone said, "Wow, Qi Xu really doesn't play favorites! He recommends talents to outsiders without concealing his enemies; he recommends talents to insiders without hiding his own son." Just as the alliance meeting of the vassal states was taking place, Duke Dao's younger brother Yang Gan behaved improperly, and Wei Jiang executed his servant for his misconduct. Duke Dao was very angry; some people advised him, but Duke Dao ultimately believed that Wei Jiang did the right thing. He entrusted him with an important task and sent him to negotiate peace with the Rongdi, who were very close to the State of Jin. Eleven years later, Duke Dao said, "Since I have promoted Wei Jiang, I have met with the vassal states nine times and maintained friendly relations with the Rongdi, all thanks to Wei Jiang!" Duke Dao wanted to shower Wei Jiang with musical instruments as a reward, but Wei Jiang declined three times before accepting. In winter, the Qin state captured our city of Linyi. In the fourteenth year, the State of Jin sent six top ministers to lead the allied armies to attack the State of Qin. They crossed the Jing River, defeated the Qin army, and retreated only after reaching Yulin. In the fifteenth year, Duke Dao consulted Shi Kuang on the way to govern the country. Shi Kuang said, "It all comes down to benevolence and righteousness." In winter, Duke Dao passed away, and his son Duke Ping Biao succeeded him. In the first year of Duke Ping, the State of Jin attacked the State of Qi, and Duke Ling of Qi personally led the troops but was routed, causing the Qi army to flee in disarray. Yan Ying said, "Your Majesty, you've shown plenty of courage. Why not pull back?" So the Qi army retreated. The Jin army pursued, surrounded Linzi, and burned down the houses in the city. From the Jiaoguang River in the east to the Yishui River in the south, the cities of the State of Qi held out and resisted; only then did the Jin army withdraw back to their country.
In the sixth year of Duke Xiang of Lu, he paid a courtesy call to the Jin court. Luan Cheng, a Jin minister, fell afoul of the law and sought refuge in Qi. Eight years later, Duke Zhuang of Qi undertook a clandestine operation, dispatching Luan Cheng to Quwo with a military escort. When the Qi army reached the Taihang Mountains, Luan Cheng returned from Quwo and attacked Jiangyi (the capital of Jin). Jiangyi was caught completely off guard, and Duke Ping of Jin was prepared to take his own life, but Fan Xianzi prevented him and led his subordinates to attack Luan Cheng. Luan Cheng was defeated and fled back to Quwo. Quwo attacked Luan Cheng, who died, and the Luan family was wiped out. This Luan Cheng was the grandson of Luan Shu, and when he attacked Jiangyi, he conspired with the Wei family. When Duke Zhuang of Qi heard that Luan Cheng had been defeated, he returned, seizing Jin's war-chariot as spoils of war, as revenge for the loss of the Battle of Linzhu.
Ten years later, Cui Zhu assassinated Duke Zhuang of Qi. Exploiting the ensuing chaos in Qi, the Jin forces launched an invasion and defeated the Qi army in Gaotang, in retaliation for the Battle of Taihang Mountains. In the fourteenth year, Yanling Jizi of Wu arrived in Jin as an envoy, talking to Zhao Wenzi, Han Xuanzi, and Wei Xianzi, saying, "The power in Jin will ultimately rest with your three houses." In the nineteenth year, Qi sent Yan Ying to Jin to talk to Shuxiang. Shuxiang said, "Jin is in a period of decline. The ruler is obsessed with building lavish pleasure grounds, neglecting his duties. Power is concentrated in the hands of a few powerful families. How long can this possibly last?" Yan Ying agreed.
In the twenty-second year, Jin attacked Yan. In the twenty-sixth year, Duke Ping died, and his son Duke Zhao succeeded to the throne. Duke Zhao died in the sixth year of his reign. At this time, the six great families of Jin had great influence, while the ruler was a weak figure. Duke Qing succeeded to the throne after Duke Zhao. In the sixth year of Duke Qing's reign, King Jing of Zhou died, and his sons fought to inherit the throne. The six great families of Jin quelled the internal strife of the Zhou royal family and installed King Jing. In the ninth year, the Ji family of Lu drove out Duke Zhao of Lu, who had to take refuge in Qianhou. In the eleventh year, envoys from Wei and Song requested Jin to accept Duke Zhao of Lu. Ji Pingzi slipped Fan Xianshi a bribe, and Fan Xianshi accepted it, telling the ruler of Jin, "The Ji clan is not guilty." So, Duke Zhao of Lu remained in exile.
In the twelfth year, the grandson of Qi Xi, a member of the Jin royal family and the son of Shuxiang, had a bad relationship with the ruler. The six great families wanted to weaken the ruler's power, so they exterminated the entire Qi Xi family according to the law, divided their land into ten counties, and gave their sons minor positions. Jin's power waned, while the power of the six families grew stronger. In the fourteenth year, Duke Ding died, and his son Duke Wu succeeded to the throne. In the eleventh year of Duke Wu's reign, Yang Hu of Lu escaped to Jin, and Zhao Yang (also known as Jianzi) took him in. In the twelfth year, Confucius became Lu's chief minister.
Fifteen years ago, Zhao Yang sent someone to Handan, but Wu, a court physician, didn't believe him, so Zhao Yang wanted to kill him. As a result, Wu, along with Zhongxing Yin and Fan Jishe, attacked Zhao Yang, who escaped to Jinyang. Duke Jin surrounded Jinyang with his troops. Xun Li, Han Buxin, and Wei Chi, who had grievances with the Fan and Zhongxing clans, seized the opportunity to attack them. The Fan and Zhongxing clans fought back, and Duke Jin personally led the troops, defeating them. The Fan and Zhongxing clans fled to Chaoge for refuge. The Han and Wei families put in a good word for Zhao Yang with Duke Jin, who pardoned him and reinstated him. Seven years later, Jin defeated the Fan and Zhongxing clans again, and their two sons fled to the Qi state.
Eight years later, Duke Jin and King Fuchai of Wu met at Huangchi, vying for the position of alliance leader. Zhao Yang followed Duke Jin at that time, and Wu eventually emerged victorious. The next year, Tian Chang of Qi killed Duke Jian of Qi and installed Jian's younger brother Ao as Duke Ping of Qi. Two years later, Confucius passed away. Four years later, Duke Jin died, and his son Duke Chu succeeded him.
Duke Chu ruled for seventeen years, during which Zhibo, a powerful minister, along with the Zhao, Han, and Wei families, divided the land of the Fan and Zhongxing clans into several towns. Duke Chu was angry and went to Qi and Lu to get them to help attack the four powerful clans. The four clans, dreading their response, attacked Duke Chu instead. Duke Chu fled to Qi and died along the way. Zhibo then installed Jiao, Duke Zhao's great-grandson, as the new ruler, known as Duke Ai of Jin.
Duke Ai's grandfather Yong was the youngest son of Duke Zhao of Jin, known as Dai Zi. Dai Zi had a son named Ji, who had a good relationship with Zhibo and died early, so Zhibo wanted to take over the entire Jin state but never dared to take action. Instead, he appointed Ji's son Jiao as the ruler. At that time, Zhibo controlled the land of the Fan and Zhongxing clans, becoming incredibly powerful.
During the fourth year of Duke Ai's reign, Zhao Xiangzi, Han Kangzi, and Wei Huanzi joined forces to kill Zhi Bo and divided his land. Eighteen years later, Duke Ai of Jin died, and his son Duke You took the throne. During Duke You's reign, the state of Jin was already very weak, with only two territories, Jiang and Quwo, remaining in Jin's hands, while the others were divided among the Zhao, Han, and Wei families.
After fifteen years of Duke You's reign, Duke Wen of Wei had just ascended to the throne. Three years later, Duke You was having an affair with a woman, slipped out of the city in the dead of night, and was killed. Duke Wen of Wei led troops to restore order in Jin, and made Duke You's son Zhi the ruler, who became Duke Lie of Jin. Duke Lie ruled for nineteen years, and King Weilie of Zhou officially made the Zhao, Han, and Wei families marquises.
In 385 BC, Duke Lie of Jin died, and his son Duke Xiao succeeded to the throne. Duke Xiao ruled for nine years, during which Duke Wu of Wei had just taken office and attacked Handan, which failed, and they retreated. Seventeen years later, Duke Xiao also died, and his son Duke Jing took the throne. This year happened to be the first year of King Weiwang of Qi.
Duke Jing ruled for two years, when Duke Wu of Wei, Duke Ai of Han, and Duke Jing of Zhao ganged up on and destroyed the state of Jin, then divided Jin's land. Duke Jing of Jin was stripped of his title and became a commoner, and Jin never had any more sacrifices.
Sima Qian said: Duke Wen of Jin, a legendary ruler of old, spent nineteen years in exile, faced a ton of crap, and finally became the ruler. When he started rewarding his loyal men, he forgot about Jie Zitui, not to mention those pompous rulers. After the assassination of Duke Ling of Jin, Duke Cheng of Jin and Duke Jing of Jin were real hardasses, and during the reign of Duke Li of Jin, they became total dicks, causing the ministers to live in fear of execution, and thus the turmoil began. From Duke Dao of Jin onwards, Jin gradually weakened, and the six ministers ran the show. Therefore, being a ruler? No walk in the park!
