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Tag: Bing Ji

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 210): Pheasants Incidence

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 19 Scroll 27 (continued)

    A Pheasant

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Wufeng Era (55 B.C.)

    On January 26 in spring, Bing Ji, Marquis Ding of Boyang, passed away.

    Ban Gu’s commentary:
     In antiquity, assigning a name to an object always followed the principle of analogy: distant comparisons were drawn from external objects, while close analogies were taken from one’s own body. Thus the Classics speak of the ruler as the head and the ministers as the arms and legs, signifying that they form one body, each dependent upon the other to function. The harmony between ruler and minister is therefore a constant principle from age to age, the natural order of things.

    Looking at the Chancellors of the Han: when Emperor Gaozu founded the dynasty, Xiao He and Cao Shen stood foremost in establishing its basis; during the renaissance under Emperor Xuan, Bing Ji and Wei Xiang became celebrated. In their time, promotions and dismissals were carried out with proper measure, offices were administered with clarity, many officials proved themselves worthy of their stations, and the realm abounded in courtesy and deference.

    Observing their achievements—could such excellence have been mere coincidence?

    On February 25, Huang Ba was appointed Chancellor. Though he excelled in governing the common people, once he assumed the chancellorship his reputation and accomplishments no longer matched those of his tenure as a commandery administrator.

    At that time, the Intendant of Jingzhao, Zhang Chang, witnessed a pheasant fly from his own residence and alight upon the roof of the Chancellor’s mansion. Huang Ba regarded it as an auspicious bird and discussed reporting it to the Emperor. Zhang Chang then submitted a memorandum criticizing him:

    “I have seen the Chancellor, together with the central ministers of 2,000-picul rank and the erudites, question the Chiefs of Staff and Associate Prefects of the principalities and commanderies regarding the benefits their policies brought to the people, the removal of harms, the effects of instruction, and demand that they report their experiences and statistics item by item.

    “Some enumerated examples of farmers yielding their borders while plowing, men and women taking different paths to avoid suspicion, and lost objects left untouched along the roads. Those who could list filial sons and virtuous women by name were ranked foremost, ascending the hall first; those who cited examples but without names or numbers were ranked second; those who could offer none were ranked last and bowed their heads in apology before the Chancellor.

    “Though the Chancellor did not speak, it was evident that he hoped they would produce such examples.”

    Zhang Chang continued:

    “While these officials were speaking, pheasants flew from my residence and landed on the Chancellor’s roof. Hundreds of people, including the Chancellor, saw it. Officials from the frontier, who are familiar with pheasants, were questioned but pretended ignorance. The Chancellor intended to report: ‘When I questioned my subordinates on promoting reform and moral instruction, Heaven responded with divine birds.’

    “Later, when he learned they had flown from my residence, he omitted the incident. Officials of the principalities and commanderies secretly mocked the Chancellor—though he is kind and learned, he makes a spectacle of trifling events.”

    Zhang Chang then delivered a deeper admonition:

    “Your servant does not presume to belittle the Chancellor, but fears that among the ministers none dare speak plainly. The Chiefs of Staff and Associate Prefects, fearing the Chancellor’s directives, may return to their posts and alter laws, each establishing private regulations. Thus they compete in embellishment, diminishing purity and burdening simplicity, exalting appearance over substance—name without reality—causing governance to tilt, slacken, and in extreme cases, resorting to voodoo.

    “Suppose first within the capital there were imposed rites of yielding on the road, of men and women taking alternate paths, or of leaving goods untouched along the ways: these acts contribute nothing to restraining greed through frugality or restraining desire through chastity, yet hypocrisy would rise to prominence beneath Heaven, and the consequences cannot be foreseen. If the feudal lords emulate these customs and acquire reputations surpassing the capital, the matter grows graver still.

    “The House of Han inherited corruption and has adapted through reform; its laws and ordinances were established to exhort the good and forbid the wicked. Their provisions are complete and need not be multiplied further. What is fitting is that the honored ministers command the Chiefs of Staff and Associate Prefects to return and admonish the leaders of 2,000-picul rank to promote Elders of the Three Merits, Filial and Fraternal men, Diligent Farmers, Filial Worthies, and Honest Officials, and earnestly seek men of genuine merit.

    “Let all affairs of the commanderies take the statutes as their model; let none dare establish private ordinances. Whoever presumes to feign virtue and steal reputation should be first to receive punishment, thus clarifying what is to be honored and what detested.”

    The Emperor approved Zhang Chang’s admonition, summoned the officials, and ordered the Chamberlain to convey instructions in accordance with Zhang Chang’s proposals. Huang Ba was deeply embarrassed.

    In addition, Shi Gao, Marquis of Leling—a maternal relative of the Emperor and serving as Privy Counselor—was greatly esteemed. Huang Ba recommended Shi Gao for the position of Grand Commandant. The Emperor dispatched a minister of the State Secretariat to summon Huang Ba and questioned him:

    “The office of Grand Commandant has long been vacant. It is the Chancellor’s charge to promulgate moral teachings, to discern and address hidden grievances, to ensure that no wrongful punishments occur in the courts and that no thieves arise in the villages.

    “The appointment of generals and ministers is my responsibility. The Marquis of Leling, Shi Gao, is a trusted adviser of mine. Why did you overstep your authority in recommending him?”

    The Emperor ordered the Chief of the State Secretariat to receive the Chancellor’s formal reply. Huang Ba removed his cap, offered apologies, and after several days the matter was concluded.

    From then on, Huang Ba did not dare make further recommendations. Even so, since the founding of the Han dynasty, he was regarded as a preeminent local official in the governance of the people.

    In March, the Emperor traveled to Hedong to offer sacrifices to Earth. He issued a decree reducing the poll tax throughout the empire and granting amnesty to all except those condemned to death.

    On June 16, Du Yannian, Prefect of Xihe, was appointed Grand Master of the Censorate.

    The commanderies of Xihe and Beidi were organized as dependent states to resettle surrendered Xiongnu.

    Prince Li of Guangling, Liu Xu, employed a sorceress named Li Nüxu to curse the Emperor in hopes of seizing the throne. When the plot came to light, he poisoned the shamaness and more than twenty palace attendants to eliminate witnesses. The ministers and the Three Excellencies jointly petitioned for Liu Xu’s execution.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 209): Xiongnu with Five Chanyus

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 19 Scroll 27 (continued)

    Huifeng Pagoda, Puyang(Dongjun), Henan Province

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Wufeng Era (57 B.C.)

    In January of spring, the Emperor traveled to Ganquan to perform the suburban sacrifice to Heaven at the Taizhi Altar.

    The Crown Prince, Liu Shi, underwent the formal ceremony of capping and was invested with the rites of manhood.

    In autumn, the Xiongnu Tuqi Chanyu sent the Right Aojian King—brother of Xianxianchan—and the Wuji Commandant, each leading twenty thousand cavalry, eastward to guard against Huhanye Chanyu. At this time, King Hujie of the western division conspired with the Weili’danghu, falsely accusing the Right Tuqi King of plotting to make himself Chanyu. Tuqi Chanyu thereupon killed the Right Tuqi King and his son. When their innocence was later discovered, he executed Weili’danghu as well.

    Terrified, King Hujie rebelled and proclaimed himself Hujie Chanyu. Upon hearing this, the Right Aojian King also declared himself Cheli Chanyu. The Wuji Commandant followed suit, calling himself Wuji Chanyu.

    Thus, among the Xiongnu there arose five Chanyus at once.

    Tuqi Chanyu personally led his forces eastward to strike at Cheli Chanyu, sending Dulongqi to attack Wuji Chanyu. Both Wuji and Cheli Chanyu were defeated and fled northwest, joining Hujie Chanyu, forming a combined force of forty thousand. Wuji Chanyu and Hujie Chanyu then renounced their titles and supported Cheli Chanyu in unison.

    When Tuqi Chanyu learned of this, he dispatched the Left Grand General and Commandant with forty thousand cavalry east to guard against Huhanye Chanyu, while he himself led forty thousand cavalry west to attack Cheli Chanyu. Cheli Chanyu was defeated once more and fled to the northwest. Tuqi Chanyu then marched his army southwest and encamped in the Tadun region.

    At this time many advisers at the Han court said: “The Xiongnu have long harmed the frontier. Now, amid their internal chaos, we should seize the opportunity to mobilize troops and destroy them.”

    The Emperor asked the Grand Master of the Censorate, Xiao Wangzhi, for his view. Xiao Wangzhi wrote:

    “In the Spring and Autumn Annals, when Shi Gai of Jin invaded Qi, he withdrew his troops upon hearing that the Marquis of Qi had just died. The gentlemen esteemed this—attacking not during mourning—holding that benevolence wins the hearts of filial sons, and righteousness moves the feudal lords.

    “The late Chanyu admired our culture, sought harmony, called himself our younger brother, and sent envoys requesting peace and marriage alliance. The whole nation rejoiced, and the tribes of all directions heard of it. Yet before these accords could be fulfilled, he was slain by traitorous ministers.

    “If we now strike them, it would be taking advantage of their misfortune. They will surely scatter and flee. To deploy the army for an unjust cause is to labor in vain and fail to achieve success.

    “It is fitting instead to send envoys to offer condolences, aid the weak, and relieve them in their calamity. When all the tribes hear of this, they will revere the benevolence and righteousness of the Middle Kingdom. Should the rightful Chanyu receive our support and be restored, he will surely submit and serve, manifesting the greatness of our virtue.”

    The Emperor accepted his counsel.

    In winter, on December 1, there was a solar eclipse.

    Han Yanshou succeeded Xiao Wangzhi as Intendant of Pingyi. When Xiao Wangzhi heard that Han Yanshou had allegedly squandered more than ten million coins of public funds during his term in Dongjun, he dispatched an imperial censor to investigate. When Han Yanshou learned of this, he immediately ordered his subordinates to investigate Xiao Wangzhi’s use of over one million coins of public funds during his own tenure in Pingyi.

    Xiao Wangzhi reported: “My duty is to supervise the realm. I dare not disregard a reported case—yet now Han Yanshou retaliates against me.”

    The Emperor, displeased with both, ordered that each be thoroughly investigated. No substantive evidence was found against Xiao Wangzhi. However, the imperial censor sent by Xiao Wangzhi to investigate Dongjun discovered that Han Yanshou had extravagantly exceeded his official allowance in hosting guests; had taken copper from public warehouses to cast swords during lunar eclipses, imitating the operations of the imperial armories; and had used state funds and silk to recruit officers responsible for levying labor, outfitting his carriages with armor—all costing the state more than three million coins.

    Han Yanshou was ultimately convicted of deception and improper conduct, and was executed in the marketplace.

    Thousands of officials and commoners accompanied him to Weicheng. Elders and children pushed his carriage, vying to offer him wine and meat. Unable to refuse their kindness, Han Yanshou drank from each vessel, consuming more than a dou (roughly 10 liters) of wine. He instructed his clerks and scribes to thank the people who escorted him, saying: “I am grateful for the trouble you have taken to see me off. I die without regret!”

    All the common people present wept.

    The 2nd year of Emperor Xuan’s Wufeng Era (56 B.C.)

    In January of spring, the Emperor traveled to Ganquan and performed the suburban sacrifice to Heaven at the Taizhi Altar.

    The General of Chariots and Cavalry, Han Zeng, passed away. In May, Xu Yanshou was appointed Grand Marshal and General of Chariots and Cavalry.

    Chancellor Bing Ji, advanced in age, was greatly esteemed by the Emperor. Xiao Wangzhi, however, frequently spoke to him with disrespect, which displeased the Emperor. The Chancellor’s Assistant reported that Xiao Wangzhi had treated the Chancellor insolently and had also used his subordinates for private trade, gaining profits amounting to 103,000 coins. He petitioned that Xiao Wangzhi be arrested and investigated.

    In autumn, on August 2, an edict demoted Xiao Wangzhi to serve as Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince. Huang Ba, who had previously held that post, was appointed Grand Master of the Censorate.

    The Huhanye Chanyu sent his younger brother, the Right Guli King, and others westward to attack the garrison of Tuqi Chanyu, killing more than ten thousand. Upon hearing of this, Tuqi Chanyu led sixty thousand cavalry to retaliate against Huhanye Chanyu. Tuqi’s forces were defeated, and he took his own life. Dulongqi and Tuqi Chanyu’s young son, the Right Guli King Gumouloutou, fled to the Han. In the east, Cheli Chanyu surrendered to Huhanye Chanyu.

    In August of winter, Huhanye’s Left General Wuli Qu, together with his father—the Husulei (title) Wuli Wendun—observed the disorder among the Xiongnu and led tens of thousands of their people to surrender to the Han. Wuli Qu was granted the title Marquis of Xincheng, and Wuli Wendun was granted the title Marquis of Yiyang.

    At this time, the son of Li Ling reinstated the Wuji Commandant as Wuji Chanyu, but Huhanye Chanyu captured him and had him beheaded. Huhanye Chanyu then returned to the central Chanyu court, yet his following numbered only in the tens of thousands. Tuqi Chanyu’s cousin, the Xiuxun King, declared himself Runzhen Chanyu in the western region. Huhanye’s elder brother, the Left Tuqi King Hutuwusi, likewise proclaimed himself Zhizhi Guduhou Chanyu in the eastern region.

    The Chamberlain, Marquis of Pingtong, Yang Yun, was honest and impartial, but proud of his own virtue and talent. He was naturally abrasive and sharp-tongued, enjoyed exposing the faults of others, and thus provoked many resentments at court. He fell into enmity with the Grand Coachman Dai Changle. When someone submitted a memorial accusing Dai Changle of crimes, Dai Changle suspected that Yang Yun had instigated it.

    Dai Changle, in turn, submitted a memorial accusing Yang Yun, stating:

    “Yang Yun submitted a memorial defending Han Yanshou. The Court Assistant Manager Qiu Chang said to him: ‘I hear you, Marquis, spoke in defense of the Intendant of Pingyi—can you save his life?’

    Yang Yun replied: ‘Such matters are difficult; even a man of integrity may not survive! I cannot even protect myself—just like the saying, a mouse cannot hide in its hole because it is nibbing a grass crown in its mouth.’

    He also said to me: ‘Since January the skies have remained overcast without rain—so recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals, and as Master Xiahou Sheng explained—this is the omen of a minister’s rebellion.’”

    The case was referred to the Minister of Justice. Yu Dingguo, Minister of Justice, ruled that Yang Yun harbored malice and uttered pernicious words, constituting grave treason. The Emperor, unwilling to execute him, ordered instead that both Yang Yun and Dai Changle be dismissed from office and reduced to commoner status.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 207): Higher Salary Deters Corruption

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 18 Scroll 26 (continued)

    Site of Juntai, Yuzhou(Yingchuan), Henan, Province. Photo by Windmemories

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Shen’jue Era (59 B.C.)

    In spring, on March 16, the Chancellor and Marquis Xian of Gaoping, Wei Xiang, passed away.

    In summer, on April 29, Bing Ji was appointed Chancellor. Bing Ji was magnanimous, observed proper ritual, and avoided petty matters. His contemporary praised him for his broad understanding of affairs and grasp of the larger design.

    In autumn, on July 26, Xiao Wangzhi, the Grand Herald, was elevated to Grand Master of the Censorate.

    In August, an imperial edict declared: “If officials are neither upright nor impartial, governance will decay. At present even minor officials toil diligently, yet their stipends are meager. Though they may desire not to infringe upon the livelihood of the people, necessity makes restraint difficult. Increase by half the salaries of all officials below the rank of one-hundred-picul.”

    In that same year, Han Yanshou, Prefect of Dongjun Commandery, was appointed Intendant of Pingyi.

    Han Yanshou had previously served as Prefect of Yingchuan. The commandery, long troubled by resentment and discord between officials and people following the administration of Zhao Guanghan, was pacified under Han Yanshou’s governance. He emphasized propriety and harmonious conduct, summoning the elders to settle the customs of marriage, funeral, and ritual, restoring ancient forms without extravagance. Waste was strictly opposed; vendors of paper funerary horses, chariots, and other joss goods had their wares confiscated and cast away on public roads.

    When Huang Ba later succeeded Han Yanshou in Yingchuan, he continued this foundation and advanced its good order.

    Han Yanshou, in office, upheld propriety and righteousness, honored ancient teachings, and wherever he served he gathered worthy scholars, treating them with respect and seeking their counsel. He promoted filial piety and fraternal harmony, established schools, held spring and autumn archery and community gatherings to select the talented, and organized performances of music and dance. At ceremonial assemblies, the people were instructed to bow and yield in courtesy toward one another. During annual military examinations, he held demonstrations of hatchet-and-banner drills, archery, and charioteering. He supervised city defenses and the collection of taxes, issuing public notices with precise deadlines and enforcing them strictly. The people respected him deeply and willingly followed his order.

    He also instituted neighborhood wardens and corporal officers, chosen for uprightness, who promoted filial and fraternal ideals within their communities. Individuals of immoral or disreputable behavior were not permitted protection or hospitality. Whenever disorder arose, officials were notified at once, and criminals dared not enter the district. Though his governance seemed strict at first, with time it brought ease to the people, secured their safety. It reduced the burden of judicial investigation for officials, and eliminated the coercion of confessions from the accused by corporal punishment. Han Yanshou was generous to his subordinates yet uncompromising in discipline. When any subordinate committed abuse of authority, he blamed himself, saying, “This is my fault—what failure of mine allowed this to happen?”

    Once, upon hearing that, county officials who heard of it all felt wounded and repentant; the county commandant even stabbed himself and died. Then a clerk of his office cut his own throat, and though men sought to save him, he did not survive. Han Yanshou wept and sent officers and physicians to treat and tend to them, and he bestowed generous compensation upon their families. Serving three years in Dongjun Commandery, his orders were carried out and prohibitions upheld, and the number of cases sentenced was greatly reduced. By this he was summoned to enter the court as the Intendant of Pingyi., 

    When Han Yanshou was passing through to Gaolinging on his county tour, he came upon two brothers locked in a dispute over land. He was deeply distressed and said: “As Intendant of the commandery, it is my duty to cultivate morality and education. Yet I have failed to prevent brothers from quarreling over fields—this dishonors our customs, and brings shame upon the upright officers, tax clerks, the Three-Elders, and the Filials. The fault lies with me. I, the Intendant, should be the first to resign.”

    That very day he fell ill and refused to attend to official matters. He shut himself in his chambers, closed his door, and reflected upon his shortcomings.

    The people of the county did not know what to do; officials, deputies, tax clerks, Three-Elders, and Filials all awaited punishment, and the families involved blamed one another. The two brothers were struck with remorse: they shaved their heads, bared their backs, and begged forgiveness, offering to relinquish the disputed fields and vowing never again to quarrel—even at the cost of their lives. A solemn hush settled over the entire county. None dared disobey.

    Han Yanshou’s reputation for uprightness and benevolence spread through all twenty-four counties; none would deceive him, for his sincerity was such that neither officials nor commoners could bear to betray it.

    The Xiongnu Woyanqudi Chanyu again executed the two younger brothers of Xianxianchan. Wuchanmu pleaded on their behalf, but the Chanyu rebuffed him, and Wuchanmu was sorely angered. Later, when the Left Yujian Rizhu King died, Woyanqudi Chanyu appointed his young son to succeed him as Yujian Rizhu King and kept the boy at court. But the nobles of the Yujian clan jointly enthroned the previous king’s elder son in defiance, and migrated eastward. Woyanqudi Chanyu sent the Right Tuqi King with ten thousand cavalry to pursue them, but they suffered heavy losses and failed to prevail.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 200): What Said to Emperor Stays with the Emperor

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 17 Scroll 25 (continued)

    The Seals excavated from Zhang Anshi’s Tomb

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Yuan’kang Era (63 B.C.)

    In March of spring, a decree was issued conferring the title of Marquis of Haihun upon the former Prince of Changyi, Liu He.

    On March 2, another decree was proclaimed:

    “In my humble beginnings, the Grand Minister of Justice Bing Ji; the Generals of the Household Shi Zeng and Shi Xuan; the Guard Commandant of Changle Palace, Xu Shun; and the Privy Counselor and Grand Master of the Chamberlain, Xu Yanshou, all rendered significant assistance to us. In particular, the former Director of the Women’s Quarter, Zhang He, instructed us in literature and the Confucian classics. His exceptional kindness and merit are the most distinguished. As the Book of Songs says: ‘No benevolence should go unrewarded.’ Therefore, Zhang Pengzu, the adopted son of Zhang He and a General of the Household, shall be granted the title of Marquis of Yangdu. Zhang He shall be posthumously honored as Marquis Ai of Yangdu. Bing Ji shall be made Marquis of Boyang, Shi Zeng Marquis of Jiangling, Shi Xuan Marquis of Pingtai, Xu Shun Marquis of Bowang, and Xu Yanshou Marquis of Lecheng.”

    Zhang He had a grandson, Zhang Ba, seven years of age, who was appointed Cavalry Gentleman and General of the Household, bearing the title of Marquis of the Interior. Former acquaintances, down to the women housed in the commandery traveler lodges who had once nursed the Emperor, were all rewarded with offices, land, property, and wealth proportionate to the extent of their beneficence.

    As Bing Ji was about to receive his marquisate, he fell ill. The Emperor, fearing he might not recover, intended to send an envoy to confer the title in person so that the seal could be bestowed while Bing Ji was still alive. Xiahou Sheng, Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince, said, “He will not die. It is said that those with hidden merit will enjoy blessings that extend even to their descendants. Now, Bing Ji has not yet been repaid for his service, and though his illness is grave, it is not one that leads to death.” Later, Bing Ji’s health indeed improved.

    Zhang Anshi felt that the enfeoffment of both his father and himself as marquises was excessive, so he declined the stipend. A decree was then issued to reserve the emolument for the Zhang family in an unnamed account within the Ministry of Finance, and the sum eventually reached one million coins. Zhang Anshi was cautious and meticulous. Whenever major political decisions were settled, he would feign illness and withdraw early. When he later heard of the promulgation of an imperial decree, he acted as though he had never been informed and sent his subordinates to inquire at the Chancellor’s office. None of the senior ministers at court knew that he had conferred with the Emperor on these matters.

    On one occasion, a man he had recommended came to express gratitude, but Zhang Anshi was displeased, saying, “Should the advancement of worthy men warrant personal thanks?” He thereafter severed all contact with him. There was once a young officer of exceptional merit who had not been properly recognized. The officer asked Zhang Anshi to intercede, but Zhang Anshi replied, “Your merit is great, and the enlightened ruler is already aware of it. As a subject, how can you speak of your own achievements?” He firmly refused to make any recommendation. Later, the officer was indeed promoted.

    Still uneasy about the marquisates bestowed upon himself and his son, Zhang Anshi sought an appointment outside the capital for his son Zhang Yanshou. The Emperor appointed Zhang Yanshou as Prefect of Beidi. After a year, mindful of Zhang Anshi’s advanced age, the Emperor summoned Zhang Yanshou back to serve as Grand Coachman and Manager of the Left Office.

    In the summer, on April 14, the Emperor appointed his son, Liu Qin, as Prince of Huaiyang. The Crown Prince, Liu Shi, twelve years of age, had already studied the Analects of Confucius and the Classic of Filial Piety. The Grand Tutor, Shu Guang, advised the Junior Tutor, Shu Shou: “I have heard that ‘those who know contentment will not be humiliated; those who know when to stop will not be imperiled.’ Now that we have attained the rank of Two Thousand Piculs, with established fame and position, if we do not retire now, we may come to regret it later.” That very day, both father and son feigned illness and submitted petitions for retirement. The Emperor granted their requests and awarded each twenty catties of gold. The Crown Prince additionally presented them with fifty catties of gold.

    Former officials and acquaintances arranged a farewell ceremony outside the Eastern Gate, with hundreds of carriages joining the procession. Passersby along the road exclaimed, “Truly, two worthy grandees!” Some were moved to tears.

    Shu Guang and Shu Shou returned to their hometowns and instructed their families to sell the gold bestowed upon them, using the proceeds to prepare a feast for relatives, longtime friends, and guests. Some advised Shu Guang to use the gold to establish property for his descendants, but Shu Guang replied: “Am I so old and forgetful that I fail to think of my descendants? I already have ancestral fields and houses. Let my descendants work diligently in them, sufficient to clothe and feed themselves as ordinary people. Adding more would only spoil them. Wealth in the hands of the virtuous weakens their aspirations; in the hands of the foolish, it multiplies their faults. Moreover, the wealthy are resented by the masses. Since I have no means to educate my descendants well, I do not wish to increment their faults or invite resentment. This gold was bestowed by the enlightened ruler to support these elderly officials. Thus I rejoice in sharing this gift with my kin and fellow villagers, to enjoy the remainder of my years in contentment. Is this not fitting?” His relatives were delighted and deeply moved.

    Huang Ba, Prefect of Yingchuan, instructed relay lodges, postal stations and local offices to raise chickens and pigs to support widows, widowers, the poor, and the destitute. Thereafter, he drafted rules and regulations, appointed elders, teachers, leaders, and supervisors, and organized them to disseminate these ideas among the populace. He encouraged people to guard against evil impulses, cultivate their fields, practice thrift, increase their wealth, plant trees, and raise livestock, while eliminating unnecessary expenses on frivolous indulgences. Though his administrative measures seemed trivial and petty at first glance, Huang Ba was resolute and capable in enforcing them.

    When speaking with officials or commoners, he questioned them closely, following their accounts in detail and probing for any hidden matters to use as reference. Admiring his keen intelligence and understanding, neither officials nor people knew whence his analytical ability came; they all called him divine and dared not deceive him in the slightest. Lawbreakers fled to neighboring counties, and bandits and thieves diminished day by day. Huang Ba prioritized education and moral guidance over punishment, striving for lasting stability and the wellbeing of both officials and the people.

    The Associate Magistrate of Xu County had become deaf from old age, and the Investigator sought to dismiss him. Huang Ba said, “Master Xu is an upright official. Though elderly, he can still rise and greet people properly. What harm is there in impaired hearing? Assist him well, and do not disappoint the hopes placed in the virtuous.”

    When asked for his reasoning, Huang Ba replied: “Frequent changes of officials incur expenses for bidding farewell to the old and welcoming the new, and unscrupulous officials exploit such transitions to embezzle funds and property, causing great losses to both government and people. Replacement officials are not necessarily better than their predecessors; they may even be worse, thereby aggravating disorder. In governing, one need only remove those who are greedy and extreme.”

    With a broad mind and clear judgment, Huang Ba won the hearts of officials and commoners alike, and the population increased year by year. His administration was regarded as the best in the realm, and he was appointed Intendant of Jingzhao. After some time, he was implicated in a crime and demoted. A subsequent decree restored him to his former post as Prefect of Yingchuan, with a stipend of eight hundred piculs of grain.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 199): Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 17 Scroll 25 (continued)

    Mosque in Yanqi(Karasahr), Xinjiang. Photo by Rolf Müller

    The 2nd year of Emperor Xuan’s Yuan’kang Era (64 B.C. continued)

    The ministers of the Xiongnu deliberated: “The land of Jushi is fertile and lies near our borders. If Han secures it, they will possess rich fields and abundant grain, which will surely imperil our nation. We must regain it at once.”

    Thus they repeatedly dispatched troops to attack the Han settlers in Jushi. Zheng Ji led more than seven thousand soldiers from the Qu’li military farm to relieve them, but he was surrounded by the Xiongnu forces. Zheng Ji memorialized: “Jushi lies over a thousand li from Qu’li, and the Han troops stationed there are few. We cannot provide support in time. I request that additional troops be sent to defend the settlers.”

    The Emperor consulted with General of the Rear Zhao Chongguo and other ministers. They resolved to strike while the Xiongnu were weakened and send armies westward into their territory, to prevent them from further disturbing the states of the Western Territory.

    Chancellor Wei Xiang submitted a memorial of remonstrance:

    “It is said: To aid the oppressed and eradicate tyranny is righteous warfare; those who uphold righteous warfare shall reign supreme.
    To take up arms in self-defense, being compelled by assault, is reactive warfare; those who wage reactive warfare shall prevail.
    To go to battle out of anger over trifling slights, being unable to restrain one’s wrath, is irked warfare; those who wage irked warfare shall be defeated.
    To fight for the sake of population control, lands, riches, and treasures is greedy warfare; those who wage greedy warfare shall perish.
    To rely upon the might of a great state and vaunt its multitudes, wishing thereby to overawe the world, is egocentric warfare; those who wage egocentric warfare shall be destroyed.
    These five forms of warfare are not merely matters of men, but accord with the laws of Heaven.

    “Of late, the Xiongnu have shown signs of goodwill. Whenever they capture Han people, they return them, and they have not encroached on our borders. Though they contest the farmlands of Jushi, the matter is not so grave as to demand urgent reprisal. Yet I hear that the generals now wish to mobilize troops and march deep into their territory. In my folly, I do not understand under what principle this campaign shall be justified.

    “Now the borderlands suffer bitter hardship. Fathers and sons chew the hides of dogs and sheep; they survive on wild plants. They live daily in fear and can scarcely be called upon to serve. The Master said: Where armies are raised, years of calamity follow. Laozi explains that when the people’s spirits are anxious and distressed, the harmony of yin and yang is thrown into disorder. Even if the army achieves victory, lingering calamities will remain, and disaster may arise from warfare.

    “At present, many prefects of commanderies and prime ministers of principalities have not been chosen for their worth, and the customs of the people have grown depraved. Natural portents occur out of season. According to the registers of this year, there have been two hundred twenty-two cases of sons murdering fathers and brothers, and wives murdering husbands. I fear these are not trivial signs.

    “Yet instead of rectifying these pressing ills, they would dispatch an army to avenge a slight against distant barbarians. This is as Confucius said: “I fear that the trouble of the Viscount Kang of Jisun lies not in the vassal state of Zhuanyu, but within their own residential walls.”

    The Emperor accepted the Chancellor’s advice and halted the military campaign. He dispatched the Marquis of Changluo, Chang Hui, to lead cavalry from Zhangye and Jiuquan to Jushi, escorting Zheng Ji along with his officials and soldiers back to Qu’li. He then summoned Junsu, the former Prince of Jushi who was residing in Yanqi (Karasahr), and reinstated him as King of Jushi. All the people of Jushi were relocated to Qu’li, and the former territory of Jushi was ceded to the Xiongnu. Zheng Ji was appointed Marshal of the Guard, entrusted with protecting the Silk Road west of Shanshan.

    Chancellor Wei Xiang took great interest in studying the historical records of the Han Dynasty and the proposals of former ministers regarding state affairs. He frequently referenced events from the rise of the Han and the writings of esteemed ministers such as Jia Yi, Chao Cuo, and Dong Zhongshu, advocating for the implementation of their policies. The Chancellor instructed his assistants to investigate and report local affairs whenever they traveled on public duties to commanderies and principalities or when they returned to their hometowns on personal leave. Upon returning to office, they were required to report any news or events from different regions. If there were rebellions, natural disasters, or other unusual circumstances in the provinces that had not been reported to the court, the Chancellor would promptly inform the Emperor. Wei Xiang worked closely with the Grand Master of the Censorate, Bing Ji, in assisting with governance, and their efforts were highly esteemed by the Emperor.

    Bing Ji was a man of profound integrity who never boasted of his virtues. Although he had worked to protect the great-grandson of Emperor Wu—now the reigning Emperor—he remained silent about his past contributions, and thus the court did not fully recognize his merit. Later, a former palace maid, Ze, persuaded her commoner husband to submit petitions claiming that they had rendered meritorious service by raising the Emperor in his infancy. The memorial was sent down, and the magistrate of the Women’s Quarters was ordered to interrogate the matter; in Ze’s testimony she told the investigator that Bing Ji knew about the facts. The Magistrate of the Women’s Quarters then escorted the accused to the Office of the Grand Master of Censorate Bing Ji. Recognizing her, Bing Ji addressed Ze: “You were once punished for failing to properly care for the Emperor’s great grandson. How can you now claim merit? Only Hu Zu of Weicheng and Guo Zhengqing of Huaiyang took part in nurturing the Emperor.”

    Bing Ji then reported separately on the efforts of Hu Zu and Guo Zhengqing, recounting their devoted service. The Emperor issued a decree in their honor; since both were deceased, their descendants received generous rewards. Ze herself was exempted from punishment but stripped of her status and reduced to common rank, though she was granted a reward of one hundred thousand coins. After personally questioning Ze, the Emperor realized that Bing Ji had never spoken of his own past service and admired him all the more for it.

    The Emperor regarded Xiao Wangzhi as a learned and prudent man, well-versed in analyzing matters of state. Believing him suitable for the position of Chancellor, he sought to thoroughly test his administrative ability and reassigned him as Intendant of Left Pingyi. Xiao Wangzhi, fearing that his transfer from Minister of the Treasury constituted a demotion and suspecting he had fallen short of imperial expectations, feigned illness. When the Emperor learned of this, he sent the Privy Counselor, Marquis of Chengdu Jin Anshang, to convey his intentions: “All appointments are made for the sake of governing the people well. You served as Prefect of Pingyuan only briefly, and thus your performance must now be reassessed in the Three Metropolis of the capital. There have been no unfavorable reports about you.” Upon receiving this message, Xiao Wangzhi immediately returned to duty.

    The Magistrate of the Women’s Quarters, Zhang He, often praised the exceptional talent and virtue of Emperor Wu’s great-grandson—the present Emperor—, as well as the auspicious phenomena around him, in front of his younger brother, Zhang Anshi. Yet Zhang Anshi always stopped him, believing it improper to extol the Emperor Wu’s great-grandson while a young sovereign was still alive and well. After the Emperor ascended the throne and Zhang He had passed away, the Emperor said to Zhang Anshi, “The Magistrate of the Women’s Quarters continually praised me in his lifetime, and you always restrained him. That was indeed appropriate.”

    In remembrance of Zhang He’s kindness, the Emperor intended to grant him the posthumous title of Marquis of Ende (Benevolence and Grace) and assign guardians for two hundred households to maintain his tomb. Since Zhang He’s own son had died young, the heir was designated as Zhang Pengzu, the youngest son of Zhang Anshi. Though still a child, Zhang Pengzu sat at the Emperor’s side, studying books and pointing out passages. The Emperor wished to grant him a noble rank and first conferred upon him the title of Marquis of the Interior.

    Zhang Anshi earnestly refused the marquisate on Zhang He’s behalf and further requested that the number of guardian households be reduced, gradually lessening them to thirty. The Emperor replied, “I am honoring the Magistrate of the Women’s Quarters; this is not about you, General.” Zhang Anshi thereupon ceased his objections and did not dare raise the matter again.

    The Emperor harbored suspicions toward the former Prince of Changyi, Liu He, and issued a sealed letter to Zhang Chang, Prefect of Shanyang, instructing him to remain vigilant against thieves and bandits, to monitor the movements of travelers, and not to disclose the contents of the letter. Zhang Chang then submitted a report on Liu He’s whereabouts and his demeanor after being dethroned, stating:

    “The former Prince of Changyi has a dark complexion, small eyes, a sharp and flat nose, sparse eyebrows and beard, a tall frame, and suffers from lameness, which renders his gait unsteady. When I spoke with him, I attempted to observe his reactions. Upon the topic of ominous birds, I remarked, ‘Changyi has many owls.’

    “The former prince replied, ‘Indeed. When I traveled west to Chang’an, I saw no owls; but when I returned east to Jiyang, the hooting of owls could be heard again.’

    “I observed his attire, speech, kneeling, and bearing—all signs of an imbecile. Previously, I proposed dismissing Zhang Xiu and other ten singers and dancers who served Prince Ai of Changyi, Liu Bo, as they were childless. But the former prince objected, saying, ‘Let the mediocre tend the garden, and do not trouble yourselves with the sick. Those who harm or kill one another should not be punished. I want them to die sooner on their own. Why would the Prefect wish to dismiss them?’

    “His nature seemed to revel in disorder and decay, and he never displayed benevolence or righteousness.”

    Upon hearing this report, the Emperor understood that Liu He was not someone worth worrying about.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 193): Dislodging Spider Web by The Gang of Huo

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 17 Scroll 25

    Duration of 6 years

    The Hometown of Xiao Wangzhi and Shu Guang, Lanling, Shandong Province

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Di’jie Era (67 B.C.)

    In March of spring, an imperial edict was proclaimed, stating: “If merit be left unrewarded and faults unpunished, even the virtue of Emperors Yao and Shun could not transform the people. Now, the Prime Minister of Jiaodong, Wang Cheng, has diligently fulfilled his duties; the refugees under his administration have surpassed eighty thousand households, and his achievements are manifest. Let Wang Cheng be enfeoffed as Marquis Within the Passes, with the emolument of a two-thousand-picul official.” Before the decree could be carried out, Wang Cheng fell ill and died.

    Thereafter, another edict commanded the Chancellor and the Imperial Censor to investigate the affairs of the commanderies and provinces through the Chiefs of Staff and Associates of the Prefects who reported their records to the capital, in order to examine their execution of laws and decrees. Some officials memorialized, saying: “The late Prime Minister of Jiaodong, Wang Cheng, exaggerated his achievements to obtain undue reward. From this precedent, many inferior officials now seek hollow fame and empty titles.”

    In summer, on April 22, the Emperor installed his son Liu Shi as Crown Prince. He appointed Bing Ji as Grand Tutor and the Grandee of the Palace, Shu Guang, as Junior Tutor. The Emperor further enfeoffed Xu Guanghan, the maternal grandfather of the Crown Prince, as Marquis of Ping’en, and Huo Yun, General of the Household and grand-nephew of Huo Guang, as Marquis of Guanyang.

    When Grand Madame Huo Xian, the widow of Huo Guang, heard that the Crown Prince had been established, she was seized with rage and distress. She refused food, spat blood, and cried aloud: “This child is but of common birth! How can he be made Crown Prince? Should the Empress later bear a son, he would be but a prince beneath him!” Again she urged the Empress to poison the Crown Prince. The Empress often summoned the Crown Prince to dine, but the Nanny and Wet Nurse, by custom, always tasted the food beforehand, so the Empress’s scheme could not be carried out.

    On May 25, the Chancellor, Wei Xian, citing age and illness, requested leave from his duties. He was granted one hundred catties of gold and a four-horse carriage of honor, and retired to his residence. This was the first instance of a Chancellor’s retirement being formally approved.

    On June 7, Wei Xiang was appointed Chancellor. On June 16, Bing Ji was made Grand Master of the Censorate; Shu Guang was appointed Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince, and his nephew, Shu Shou, was made Junior Tutor.

    The Crown Prince’s grandfather, Xu Guanghan, Marquis of Ping’en, memorialized, requesting that his younger brother, Xu Shun, be assigned to oversee and protect the household of the young Crown Prince. When the Emperor consulted Shu Guang on this matter, Shu Guang replied: “The Crown Prince, being heir to the state, should be surrounded by worthy teachers and companions chosen from among the able men of the realm. It is not fitting to grant undue favor solely to the Xu clan, though Uncle Xu is his grandfather. Moreover, the Crown Prince already has his Grand Tutors and Junior Tutors duly appointed, and all attendants are in place. To add Xu Shun now as guardian of his household would appear superficial and unseemly, and would not elevate the Crown Prince’s virtue in the eyes of the people.”

    The Emperor commended Shu Guang’s counsel and reported it to Wei Xiang. Wei Xiang, moved by his discernment, removed his cap in respect, saying, “Shu Guang’s foresight surpasses us all.” Thus Shu Guang’s reputation for integrity and wisdom grew ever more illustrious.

    In the capital, there was heavy rain and hail. The Associate Grand Usher, Xiao Wangzhi of Donghai, submitted a memorial declaring that the concentration of power among a few great families had brought forth these calamities. The Emperor, having long heard of Xiao Wangzhi’s integrity and discernment, appointed him Imperial Usher. At that time, the Emperor earnestly sought out men of talent; many among the people presented memorials offering counsel and proposals. The Emperor ordered that such petitions be referred to Xiao Wangzhi for deliberation. Those whose proposals were substantial were recommended to serve under the Chancellor or in the Censorate; those of lesser merit were assigned magistracies with the rank of two-thousand-picul officials. They were tested in office and assessed after one year; those who proved unfit were dismissed. All matters proposed by Xiao Wangzhi received imperial approval.

    In October of winter, an imperial edict was issued, declaring: “On September 19, the ground was shaken by an earthquake, which greatly alarmed Us. We now seek those who can admonish Us for Our faults, and those who are virtuous and upright, that they may speak freely and correct Our deficiencies. Let there be no concealment before the authorities. Since Our virtue is wanting and cannot extend afar, the borders remain unsettled with troops. Now We command that the General of Chariots and Cavalry and the General of the Right withdraw their stationed forces, to lighten the people’s burdens; for prolonged deployments exhaust the realm and hinder its pacification.”

    Another edict proclaimed: “The fish ponds and aviaries that We have not visited shall be opened to the people, that the poor may share in their use. The palaces and mansions within the commanderies and provinces shall not be repaired or rebuilt. Those who have returned from exile or displacement shall be granted public lands and seed for planting, and shall be exempted from taxes and corvée.”

    The family of Huo Guang grew ever more extravagant and unrestrained. The Grand Madame Xian, enlarged their mansions with ornate halls and towers, and fashioned carriages and palanquins adorned with painted designs, embroidered silks, and gilded ornaments. Their wheels were cushioned with braided leather and cotton; attendants in garments of variegated silk drew her carriages when she took her leisure within the residence. Huo Xian engaged in illicit relations with her slave overseer, Feng Zidu. Likewise, Huo Yu and Huo Shan rebuilt and adorned their estates, holding horse races and diversions at the Pingle Resort.

    When summoned to court audience, Huo Yun often feigned illness, yet privately went abroad accompanied by many retainers. He hunted in the Huangshan Park, sending servants to stand in his stead at court; none dared to censure him. Huo Xian and her daughters passed in and out of the Changxin Palace at all hours, heedless of restraint or decorum. Their conduct exceeded the bounds of propriety.

    The Emperor, who had once dwelt among the common people, perceived the long-entrenched hubris and unchecked influence of the Huo clan, and discerned that disorder was festering within. When he took personal charge of state affairs, the Grand Master of the Censorate, Wei Xiang, often conferred with him on matters of government. Huo Xian said to Huo Yu, Huo Yun, and Huo Shan: “You neglect the charge left by the Grand General. Now, the Grand Master of the Censorate serves as the Emperor’s close adviser within the palace. Should he speak ill of you, what means do you have to save yourselves?”

    Soon thereafter, the retainers of the two households quarreled over precedence on the road. A slave of the Huo family sought to break down the gate of the Grand Master’s mansion. A Censor came forth and prostrated himself in apology, whereupon the slave withdrew. When word reached the Huo household, Huo Xian and her kin grew fearful, sensing that calamity was near.

    During the tenure of Wei Xiang as Chancellor, he often conferred with the Emperor in private. The Marquis of Ping’en, Xu Guanghan, and the Privy Counselor, Jin Anshang, freely entered and withdrew from the inner court. Huo Shan held authority over the State Secretariat. The Emperor decreed that officials and commoners alike might submit sealed memorials directly to the throne, without passing through the Secretariat; and that ministers might be received in a private audience apart from its supervision. This deeply displeased the Huo clan.

    The Emperor, having heard reports that the Huo family had poisoned Empress Xu but lacking conclusive proof, began to take precautionary measures. He appointed Fan Mingyou, Marquis of Pingling and son-in-law of Huo Guang—then serving as General of the Northern Garrisons and Commandant of the Weiyang Palace Guards—as Chamberlain. He dispatched Ren Sheng, husband of Huo Guang’s second daughter and formerly General of the Household and Supervisor of the Feather-Forest Guard, to serve as Prefect of Anding. After several months, Zhang Shuo, husband of Huo Guang’s elder sister and Grandee of Merit with duties as palace liaison, was sent to govern Shu Commandery. Wang Han, General of the Household and grandson-in-law of Huo Guang, was appointed Prefect of Wuwei. Later, Deng Guanghan, Commandant of the Changle Palace Guard and husband of Huo Guang’s eldest daughter, was transferred to serve as Privy Treasurer.

    On August 14, Zhang Anshi was made Guard General, with command over the palace guards, the city gates, and the Northern Army. Huo Yu was appointed Grand Marshal, yet he wore only a small cap and bore neither seal nor ribbon of office. The Emperor dissolved the military units formerly under his control, though Huo Yu still retained the nominal title once held by Huo Guang. Fan Mingyou, the Duliao General, was stripped of his seals and tallies, left only with his duties as Chamberlain. Zhao Ping, Commandant of the Cavalry, Cavalier Attendant, and Grandee of Merit, also son-in-law to Huo Guang, was likewise deprived of his seal and ribbon as Commandant of the Cavalry.

    All commanders of the imperial guards stationed about for eastern(residence of the Crown Prince) and western(residence of the Emperor) palaces—those of the frontier units drawn from the Nomad, the Yue tribes and the Feather-Forest guards—were replaced by men of the Xu and Shi clans, whom the Emperor trusted as his own kin and allies.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 187): Leapfrogging to The Throne

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    Old City of Qi, Zibo(Qiansheng), Shandong Province 

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C. continued)

    After the deposition of the Prince of Changyi, the choice of successor was debated among the senior ministers, including Huo Guang and Zhang Anshi. As no decision was yet reached, Bing Ji submitted a memorial to Huo Guang, saying:

    “Grand General, you served Emperor Wu, bearing the charge of raising his heir from infancy, entrusted with the care of the entire realm. When Emperor Zhao passed away untimely, leaving no heir, fear and unease spread throughout the empire. On the day of the funeral, for the sake of the great enterprise, a successor was hastily chosen; but perceiving the choice amiss, he was deposed for the greater cause, and all under Heaven assented. At this juncture, the fate of the state, the ancestral temples, and the lives of the people depend upon your judgment.

    “I have listened to the voices of the people and observed the discourse regarding the princes of the imperial clan, yet have heard no worthy name outside the court. Meanwhile, within the harem by posthumous decree, the Imperial Great-Grandson Liu Bingyi has been fostered, reared under the care of the inner palace and his maternal great grandmother. When I once served at the commandery prison, I beheld him as a child. Now he is eighteen or nineteen years of age, well versed in the Confucian classics, of comely talent and serene bearing.

    “I earnestly entreat the General, considering the highest righteousness, to seek the judgment of the tortoise oracle; if it proves auspicious, then let him be appointed attendant to the Empress Dowager and enter the palace, so that all under Heaven may behold him. Then, with the world’s gaze upon him, the final decision may be made, to the blessing of the empire.”

    Du Yannian also discerned the virtue of the Imperial Great-Grandson, and urged Huo Guang and Zhang Anshi to establish him as successor.

    In July of autumn, Huo Guang, seated in the court, convened with the Chancellor Yang Chang and the ministers to deliberate, and together they memorialized, saying: “The Great-Grandson of Emperor Wu, Liu Bingyi, is now eighteen years of age. He has been instructed in the Book of Songs, the Analects, and the Classic of Filial Piety. He himself practices frugality, kindness, and benevolence. He is fit to succeed Emperor Zhao, to continue the sacrifices of the ancestral temples, and to nurture the people. We memorialize this, even at the cost of our lives.”

    The Empress Dowager decreed: “It is permitted.”

    Huo Guang sent the Minister of the Imperial Clan, Liu De, to the residence of the Imperial Great-Grandson at Shangguanli, where he was bathed and robed in imperial garments. The Grand Coachman dispatched a light carriage to escort him to the Ministry of the Imperial Clan.

    On July 25, Liu Bingyi entered Weiyang Palace, audience with the Empress Dowager, and was ennobled as Marquis of Yangwu.

    Afterward the court officials presented the imperial seal and ribbon, and he was formally enthroned as Emperor. He went to offer sacrifice at the Temple of Emperor Gaozu, and honored the Empress Dowager with the title of Grand Empress Dowager.

    The Imperial Censor Yan Yannian accused Huo Guang, submitting a memorandum, saying: “General Huo has deposed and established an emperor of his own will, not in accord with the rites of a loyal minister. This is not fitting.” Though the charge was dismissed, the officials of the court ever after revered and feared Yan Yannian.

    On August 5, Yang Chang, Marquis of Anping, died.

    In September, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire. 

    On September 5, Cai Yi was appointed Chancellor.

    Earlier, the daughter of Xu Guanghan had been wedded to the Imperial Great-Grandson Liu Bingyi. After one year she bore him a son, Liu Shi. Within a few months thereafter, the Great-Grandson became Emperor, and the house of Xu grew in influence. At that time the General Huo Guang had a young daughter, kin to the Empress Dowager. When the choice of an empress was under discussion, some secretly inclined toward Huo Guang’s daughter, but none dared to speak openly.

    The Emperor thereupon issued a decree, seeking for the old sword he had carried in his obscurity. The wise among the ministers discerned his inkling, and proposed the daughter of Xu Guanghan as the Empress. On November 9, Consort Xu(Jieyu[Lady of Handsome Fairness]) was established as Empress. Later, Huo Guang judged Xu Guanghan, who had been punished by castration, unfit to hold the title of a head of state. After one year, he was enfeoffed as Lord of Changcheng.

    The Grand Empress Dowager returned to dwell in Changle Palace, where guards were stationed for the first time.

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Benshi Era (73 B.C.)

    In the spring, an imperial decree ordered the ministers to deliberate on the merit of securing the imperial succession and continuing the ancestral sacrifices. The Grand General Huo Guang was augmented with a fief of seventeen thousand households, in addition to his former twenty thousand. The Chariot and Cavalry General, Zhang Anshi, Marquis of Fuping, together with ten others of lesser rank, all received increases of fief. Five men were enfeoffed as marquises, and eight were created Inner Marquises.

    The Grand General Huo Guang prostrated himself, humbly petitioning to return the affairs of state to the Emperor, but the Emperor refused, insisting that he continued his duty. He decreed that all matters must first be presented to Huo Guang for judgment, and only then submitted for imperial sanction.

    From the time of Emperor Zhao, Huo Guang’s son Huo Yu, and his elder brother Huo Qubing’s grandson, Huo Yun, both served as Generals of the Household. Huo Yun’s younger brother, Huo Shan, was Commandant of Chariots and Privy Counselor, commanding troops of the northern and southern tribes. Two sons-in-law of Huo Guang held the posts of Guard Commandants of the Eastern and Western Palaces. His kinsmen by blood and marriage—brothers, sons-in-law, and grandsons—crowded the court, filling the offices of administrators, grandees, commandants, and palace liaisons. Thus they formed a tightly bound faction.

    As the power of Huo Guang grew, especially after the deposition of the Prince of Changyi, his authority became ever more preeminent. In court audiences the Emperor humbled his bearing, withdrew his countenance, and displayed undue deference toward him.

    On April 10, in summer, there was an earthquake.

    In May, phoenixes gathered in Jiaodong and Qiansheng. A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the empire, and the collection of land taxes and levies was suspended.

    In June, an imperial decree was issued, saying: “The former Crown Prince, who lies at rest in Hu County, has neither been granted a posthumous name nor received annual sacrifice. Let there be discussion on bestowing a posthumous title and establishing an estate for his tomb garden.”

    The officials in charge memorialized, saying: “According to the rites, when one inherits the title of a man, he must be accounted his son; thus the sacrifices to his true parents must cease, in order to honor the ancestral line. Now Your Majesty, as the descendant of Emperor Zhao, inherits the sacrifices of the imperial temple. We propose that the posthumous title of Your Majesty’s  true(biological) father be Prince Dao, and of Your Majesty’s  true(biological) mother be Queen Dao. Further, that the former Crown Prince, Your Majesty’s true grandsire, be posthumously named Crown Prince Li, and his consort, Lady Shi, be styled Madame Li.”

    All these were accordingly reburied with their proper honors.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 186): It Takes A Nation to Raise An Imperial Great-Grandson

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24 (continued)

    The Kingdom of Lu

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C. continued)

    Huo Guang, directing that memorials of state be submitted to the Eastern Palace, judged that the Empress Dowager should be instructed in the Confucian classics. He commanded Xiahou Sheng to expound the Book of Documents to her. Xiahou Sheng was then promoted to Privy Treasurer of Changxin Palace, and ennobled as Marquis Within the Passes.

    In former times, Crown Prince Liu Ju, born of Empress Wei, had taken to wife a Lady Shi of the kingdom of Lu, and she bore him a son, Liu Jin, styled the Emperor’s Grandson Shi. The Grandson Shi took to wife a Lady Wang of Zhuo Commandery, and she bore a son Liu Bingyi, who was styled the Imperial Great-Grandson. When the Great-Grandson was but a few months old, he was implicated in the witchcraft affair. The three sons and one daughter of the Crown Prince, with their wives and concubines, all perished in that calamity. Only the Great-Grandson survived, yet he too was cast into the commandery prison.

    At that time, Bing Ji, former Associate Minister of Justice of Lu, was charged by decree to investigate the witchcraft case. Knowing the Crown Prince to be guiltless, he grieved for the unjust suffering of the Imperial Great-Grandson. He chose trustworthy and compassionate women among the inmates—Hu Zu of Weicheng and Guo Zhengqing of Huaiyang—to nourish the child, and placed him in a drier and cleaner cell. Bing Ji himself came every other day to inspect.

    The witchcraft case dragged on unresolved. When Emperor Wu fell ill, he often lodged at the Changyang and Wuzha Palaces. Astrologers declared that an imperial aura arose within the prison at Chang’an. Emperor Wu therefore ordered that all prisoners there be executed, without regard to guilt or crime.

    One night the palace usher Guo Rang came with men to the commandery prison, but Bing Ji refused to open the gates, saying: “Within is the Imperial Great-Grandson. To kill the innocent is unlawful; how much more the close kin of the Emperor!” He barred the gates until dawn. Guo Rang returned and impeached Bing Ji.

    When Emperor Wu awoke and heard, he said: “This is Heaven’s intervention.” He issued a general amnesty, and only those imprisoned in the commandery residence were spared—preserved through the loyal protection of Bing Ji.

    Later, Bing Ji, deeming it unfitting that the Imperial Great-Grandson should remain in prison, instructed the warden Shei Ru to present a letter to the Intendant of Jingzhao. Shei Ru, together with Hu Zu, carried the letter, but the Intendant refused to receive it and sent them back. When the time came for Hu Zu’s release, the Imperial Great-Grandson clung to her with longing. Bing Ji then spent his own wealth to persuade Hu Zu to remain, and with Guo Zhengqing she continued to rear the child. After some months, Hu Zu was permitted to depart.

    Thereafter the county treasurer reported to Bing Ji that no decree authorized provisions for the Imperial Great-Grandson. Bing Ji again drew upon his own purse, each month supplying rice and meat. When the child fell ill, he arranged for wet-nurses without ceasing, and himself oversaw the use of medicines. Many times by such care Bing Ji drew the Imperial Great-Grandson back from the brink of death.

    When Bing Ji learned that Consort Shi, grandmother of the Great-Grandson, had a mother Zhenjun and a brother Shi Gong, he sent the child in a carriage and entrusted him to them. The aged Zhenjun, beholding her sole great grandson, was moved with compassion, and took upon herself the burden of nurture, cherishing him with utmost care.

    Later an imperial decree commanded that the Imperial Great-Grandson be raised within the inner palace, his name entered in the register of the Minister of the Imperial Clan. At that time Zhang He was Director of the Inner Palace. He had once served Crown Prince Liu Ju, and out of remembrance for former grace, pitied the orphaned scion. He tended the Imperial Great-Grandson with devotion, sustaining him and instructing him at his own expense. When the Great-Grandson reached maturity, Zhang He, seeking to strengthen his household bond, proposed to wed his granddaughter to him.

    At that time Emperor Zhao had just come of age. His stature was eight feet two inches. Zhang He’s younger brother, Zhang Anshi, served as General of the Right and assisted in the government. When he heard that Zhang He praised the Imperial Great-Grandson and even thought to marry his granddaughter to him, he grew angry and said: “The Imperial Great-Grandson is but a remnant scion of Crown Prince Liu Ju and Empress Wei. It is fortunate enough that the state sustains him with the livelihood of a commoner. How can you speak of wedding him to our granddaughter?” Zhang He, hearing this, abandoned the plan.

    At that time there was a clerk of the weaving chamber within the harem, eunuch Xu Guanghan. Zhang He gave a banquet and invited him. When the wine was deep, Zhang He said: “The Imperial Great-Grandson is a kin to the Emperor. At the least, he will bear the rank of Marquis Within the Passes. He would be a worthy match for your daughter.” Xu Guanghan agreed. On the morrow, when Xu’s wife heard of it, she was wroth; yet Zhang He pressed the matter, and in the end the marriage was made. Zhang He himself bore the expense of the dowry.

    Thus the Imperial Great-Grandson relied upon the support of Xu Guanghan and his brethren, together with his grandmother’s house, the Shi clan. He received instruction in the Book of Songs from Fu Zhongweng of Donghai. Though he was quick of wit and ardent in study, he also delighted in knight-errant’s hobbies, such as cockfighting and dog-racing. In this he came to know the ways of good and evil among the people, and to discern the success and failure of local administration.

    He roamed often through the counties and commanderies, visiting ancient tombs, and explored widely the Three Metropolitan regions of Jingzhao, Pingyi, and Fufeng. Once he met hardship near Lianshao Salt Lake, and he especially liked the counties of Du and Hu, and would often reside at Xiadu City. When entering court, he lodged in the quarter of Shangguanli outside the capital of Chang’an.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 182): Sudden Death of Young Emperor And His Psychotic Successor

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 16 Scroll 24

    Duration of 7 years

    Han Tomb Museum in Linyi(Langya), Shandong Province. Photo by kanegen

    The 1st year of Emperor Zhao’s Yuanping Era (74 B.C.)

    In February of spring, an edict was issued to reduce the child head tax, levied upon those between the ages of seven and fourteen, by three-tenths.

    In summer, on April 17, the Emperor, being twenty one years of age, passed away in the Weiyang Palace, leaving no heir.

    At that time, among the sons of Emperor Wu, only the Prince of Guangling, Liu Xu, remained. The Grand General Huo Guang, together with the court officials, deliberated upon the succession, and all were in agreement to support the Prince of Guangling. Yet the Prince had formerly been disfavored for his wanton conduct, and Emperor Wu had never considered him worthy.

    The Grand General was uneasy in heart. Then a Palace Gentleman memorialized, saying: “When King Tai of Zhou set aside Taibo in favor of King Ji of Zhou, and when King Wen of Zhou advanced King Wu above his elder son Bo Yikao, both decisions were founded upon virtue and capacity. To pass over an elder in favor of a younger may at times be fitting, yet the Prince of Guangling assuredly is unfit to inherit the ancestral temple.”

    These words accorded with Huo Guang’s mind. He presented the memorial to the Chancellor, Yang Chang, and others, and advanced the Palace Gentleman to the Prefect of Jiujiang.

    On the same day, acting under the decree of the Empress Dowager, Huo Guang dispatched the acting Grand Herald, the Privy Treasurer Shi Lecheng, the Imperial Clan Minister Liu De, the Grand Master of Chamberlain Bing Ji, and the General of the Household Lihan, together with others, to receive the Prince of Changyi, Liu He, and escort him to the capital in seven mail carriages. Liu He lodged in the Chang’an official residence of the Principality of Changyi.

    At the same time, Huo Guang advised the Empress Dowager to appoint the General of the Right, Zhang Anshi, as General of Chariots and Cavalry.

    Liu He was the son of Prince Ai of Changyi. In his native land he was famed for extravagance and wantonness. Even during the mourning for Emperor Wu, he indulged in dissipation, and would often ride out hunting without restraint. Once, hunting in Fangyu County, he covered two hundred li in less than half a day.

    The Commandant of the Capital Guard, Wang Ji of Langya, submitted a memorial admonishing him:

    “Sire neglects the pursuit of learning and delights only in pleasure and wandering. He rides in reckless haste, his horse’s bits and reins never held in check. His mouth grows weary from shouting, his hands sore from the bridle, his body exhausted by carriage and chariot. In the mornings he is drenched with mist and dew; by day he is covered with dust. In summer he is scorched by the fierce heat; in winter he is chilled by the bitter winds. Thus his frail and delicate frame is wearied with excessive exertion. Such practice neither preserves life nor advances benevolence and righteousness.

    “Beneath the spacious hall, upon the fine mats, eminent teachers may sit in front, while diligent reciters attend behind. There he may discourse on the eras of Emperor Yao and Shun, and examine the prosperous reigns of Yin and Zhou; there he may study the spirit of humane sages, and practice the art of governing the state. Zealous and intent, he may forget his meals, daily renewing his virtue. How could such delight be found amidst the bustle of streets and markets?

    “When at rest, let him bend and stretch to ease the body; when advancing and retreating, stepping and pacing, let him cultivate proper bearing and strength of limb. By inhaling the new and exhaling the old may he nourish his vitality; by concentrating the mind and gathering skill may he enrich his spirit. Thus shall he preserve life and attain longevity.

    “If Sire would earnestly give heed, then your mind shall cherish the aspirations of Emperor Yao and Shun; your body shall enjoy the long years of Crown Prince Jin and Chisongzi; your illustrious renown, once heard above, shall bring blessings and honors, and the realm shall be at peace.

    “The Emperor, benevolent and sagacious, even now remains ever mindful and admiring, and has not indulged in the pleasures of palace halls, gardens, ponds, or hunting. Sire ought from dawn till dusk to contemplate this, in order to carry forward the Emperor’s intent.

    “Among the feudal lords and kinsmen, none are nearer than Sire. In kinship Sire is as a son; in office Sire is as a minister. One person thus bears the double charge of both duties. Should affection and righteousness fail to be fully displayed, and come to the notice of the Emperor, it will not redound to the blessing of the state.”

    Prince Liu He issued a proclamation, saying: “We, being unable to restrain my misprision, acknowledge the earnestness of the Commandant of the Capital Guard, who often admonishes me for my faults.” He commanded the usher Qianqiu to present Wang Ji with five hundred catties of beef, five piculs of wine, and five bundles of dried meat. Yet thereafter he still abandoned himself to profligacy, without restraint.

    Chamberlain Gong Sui of Shanyang was loyal and sincere, firm and resolute in character. Within the palace he would remonstrate and contend with the Prince; outside the palace he would censure the prime minister and grand tutor, citing principle and weighing consequences, even to the point of shedding tears. He was unyielding, facing the Prince directly and pointing out his faults. The Prince, on hearing him, would cover his ears and flee, saying, “The Chamberlain is truly skilled at shaming men!”

    The Prince was often given to prolonged revels, gaming, and lavish gifts to his attendants and palace officials. Gong Sui came before him, weeping and crawling on his knees; all the attendants and ministers present were moved to tears. The Prince asked, “Why does Chamberlain weep?”

    Gong Sui replied, “I grieve deeply for the peril of the state. I beg a moment’s attention to declare my humble counsel.” The Prince thereupon dismissed his attendants. Gong Sui said, “Does Sire know why the Prince of Jiaoxi was condemned for immorality?”

    The Prince of Changyi said, “I do not know.”

    Gong Sui said, “I have heard that the Prince of Jiaoxi had a sycophant named Hou De. The Prince of Jiaoxi imitated the deeds of the despots Jie of Xia and Zhou of Shang, yet in Hou De’s mouth he was equal to Emperor Yao and Shun. The Prince delighted in Hou De’s words, favored his presence, lived and slept with him, and thus came to ruin. Now Sire is close to a band of petty men, gradually steeped in their corrupt ways. The border between survival and destruction must not be trifled with. It is meet and right so to choose men learned and upright, who follow the Way, to be Sire’s companions. When seated, let them recite the Book of Songs and the Book of Documents; when standing, let them practice ritual and propriety. This will bring benefits.”

    The Prince assented. Gong Sui then selected ten men, led by Zhang An, who were versed in the Classics and possessed a sense of righteousness, to serve the Prince. Yet after a few days the Prince dismissed Zhang An and the rest.

    Once, the Prince beheld a great white dog, whose form from the neck downward resembled that of a man. It wore a crown shaped like a square mountain and bore no tail. The Prince, in wonder, asked Gong Sui concerning it. Gong Sui replied: “This is a heavenly warning. It signifies that those who speak before Sire are dogs with human caps. If they are not kept away, calamity will follow.”

    Later, the Prince heard one exclaim, “Bear!” Looking about, he saw a great bear, yet none of those present beheld it. The Prince asked Gong Sui about this. Gong Sui said: “The bear, a wild beast of the mountains, has entered the palace, yet only Sire can see it. This again is a divine portent, declaring that the palace will soon be desolate, and peril is near at hand.”

    The Prince lamented, gazing upward to Heaven, and said: “Why do these ill omens keep appearing?”

    Gong Sui knocked his head upon the ground and said: “I dare not conceal my loyal heart. I have often spoken of the impending danger, though I know it has displeased Sire. Yet whether the state endures or falls does not rest upon my words. I entreat Sire to reflect deeply. The Book of Songs contains three hundred and five odes, embracing the affairs of men and the Way of kingship. Which conduct of Sire accords with even a single verse therein? As a prince among the lords, Sire acts more soiled than the common people. This is to imperil your life and invite destruction. It is fitting to ponder with utmost seriousness!”

    Later again blood stained the royal seat. The Prince asked Gong Sui about it. Gong Sui wailed and said: “The palace will long stand empty; portents of ill fortune are repeated. This blood signifies hidden and inauspicious omens. One must be prudent, fearful, and examine oneself!”

    Yet despite these warnings, the Prince altered nothing in his behavior.