Reflection by Rio Grande

Tag: Xiao Wangzhi

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 218): Murder by Humiliation

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 20 Scroll 28 (continued)

    Shrine of Xiao Wangzhi. Photo by Chunyuan Lai

    The 2nd year of Emperor Yuan’s Chuyuan Era (47 B.C. continued)

    On February 27, the Emperor invested his younger brother Liu Jing as Prince of Qinghe.

    On February 28, an earthquake struck Longxi Commandery, toppling walls and buildings and crushing many people.

    In March, Liu Ba, son of Prince Li of Guangling (Liu Xu), succeeded as Prince of Guangling.

    An edict ordered the discontinuation of palace carriages and the keeping of dogs and horses for the eunuchs. The inner gardens of the imperial parks under the Water Management Bureau, the Yichun Lower Garden, and the pools outside the Archer Training Office under Privy Treasury and the royal archery grounds were to be closed, cutting expenditure for the benefit of the poor. A general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm, and men of exceptional talent and those who spoke with candor and remonstrated directly were to be recommended.

    In April of summer, the Emperor appointed his son Liu Ao as Crown Prince.

    Scribe-in-waiting Zheng Peng recommended Zhang Chang, Prefect of Taiyuan, saying he had been a distinguished minister under the late Emperor and was suited to instruct and assist the Crown Prince. The Emperor consulted Xiao Wangzhi regarding this. Xiao Wangzhi replied that although Zhang Chang was a capable administrator, able to manage difficult affairs, he lacked the gravitas befitting a tutor or preceptor to a prince.

    The Emperor nonetheless dispatched an emissary to summon Zhang Chang, intending to make him Intendant of Pingyi. Before he arrived, Zhang Chang fell ill and died.

    An edict granted Xiao Wangzhi the title Marquis Within the Passes and appointed him Palace Steward, permitting him to attend court audiences at the new and full moons, instead of being there everyday.

    East of Hangu Pass famine prevailed, and in the Qi region the people turned to cannibalism.

    In autumn, on July 27, another earthquake occurred.

    The Emperor once more summoned Zhou Kan and Liu Gengsheng, intending to appoint them as Grandees of Remonstration. Hong Gong and Shi Xian advised against it, recommending instead that they be made Palace Gentlemen.

    The Emperor continued to hold Xiao Wangzhi in high esteem and intended to raise him to the Chancellorship. But Hong Gong, Shi Xian, the Xu and Shi clans, together with other attendants and officials, regarded Xiao Wangzhi and his associates with suspicion and hostility.

    Liu Gengsheng had a maternal kinsman in the palace submit a memorial, saying: “The earthquake is doubtless due to Hong Gong and his faction, not stirred by the three obstinate men alone. Your servant, in dullness, believes that Hong Gong and Shi Xian should be dismissed, thus displaying the punishment for those who obscure and conceal the worthy, and that Xiao Wangzhi and his associates should be advanced, thus opening the way for the virtuous. If this be done, the Gate of Great Peace will be opened, and the sources of calamity and anomaly will be stopped.”

    When this memorial was presented, Hong Gong and Shi Xian suspected Liu Gengsheng of instigating it. They requested an inquiry into the deceit, and Liu Gengsheng’s relative confessed. Liu Gengsheng was arrested and imprisoned, then dismissed from office and reduced to the status of a commoner.

    The son of Xiao Wangzhi, Xiao Ji, serving as Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary and Palace Gentleman, together with others, also submitted a memorial appealing his father’s earlier prosecution. The matter was referred to the judicial authorities, who again reported: “The charges against Xiao Wangzhi were clear, and no accusations were born of slander; yet he instructed his son to submit a memorial citing the verse on ‘The Exoneration of the Guiltless,’ thereby failing to exhibit the deportment of a great minister and acting with disrespect. We request that he be arrested.”

    Hong Gong, Shi Xian, and their associates knew Xiao Wangzhi to be a man of noble character who would not endure humiliation, and thus they proposed: “Xiao Wangzhi was fortunate to escape punishment, and moreover received title and land, yet he does not repent but nurses deep resentment. He instructed his son to submit a petition that reproaches the Emperor, believing that, as a former imperial tutor, he would not be punished. Unless he is imprisoned to quell his discontent, His Majesty’s further grace will not be felt by him.”

    The Emperor said, “Master Xiao is known for his firmness and loftiness; he will not submit to the officials!”

    Shi Xian and the others replied, “Human life is the weightiest of all considerations. Xiao Wangzhi’s offense is but a minor one of speech; there is no cause for concern over his life.”

    Thus the Emperor approved their proposal.

    In December of winter, Shi Xian and his faction sealed the edict and delivered it to the usher, ordering him to present it directly to Xiao Wangzhi. Shi Xian instructed the Minister of Rites to summon the Bearer of the Mace, and cavalry guards were dispatched to encircle Xiao Wangzhi’s residence.

    Xiao Wangzhi sought counsel from his disciple Zhu Yun of Lu, a man of lofty virtue. Zhu Yun advised him to take his own life. Xiao Wangzhi looked up to Heaven and sighed: “I have held high offices and am now past sixty. To be imprisoned in old age, seeking only to cling to life—what a disgrace is this!”

    He then said to Zhu Yun, “Fetch the poison quickly; do not let me languish in death!” He drank the poison and died.

    When the Emperor heard this, he was shocked and struck his hands together, saying: “I feared he would not go to prison, and now you have killed my virtuous tutor!” He happened to be taking his meal, but pushed his food aside and wept, moving all who attended him. He summoned Shi Xian and the others for questioning; they removed their caps and pleaded forgiveness. After a long while, the matter was settled.

    The Emperor, missing Xiao Wangzhi, never forgot him; each year he dispatched envoys to offer sacrifices at his tomb, and this practice continued throughout his reign.

    Sima Guang’s commentary: How grievous it is that Emperor Yuan, as a ruler, was easy to mislead yet hard to awaken! The slanders that Hong Gong and Shi Xian wove against Xiao Wangzhi—wicked in argument and deceitful in design—were indeed difficult to penetrate. At first they suspected Xiao Wangzhi would not willingly enter prison, yet claimed there was no need for concern; when he then took his own life, the deceit of Hong Gong and Shi Xian was laid bare. For a ruler of even median wisdom, who would not be moved to punish such treacherous attendants?Emperor Yuan was not so. Though he wept and set aside his meal in sorrow for Xiao Wangzhi, he could do no more than bid Hong Gong and Shi Xian remove their caps and apologize. How can treacherous ministers be checked in this way? Thus Hong Gong and Shi Xian were left to indulge their evil hearts without fear or restraint.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 217): Alliance between Eunuchs and Affinal Kin

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 20 Scroll 28 (continued)

    King Cheng of Zhou and Duke of Shao. Photo by Vitsuha

    The 2nd year of Emperor Yuan’s Chuyuan Era (47 B.C.)

    In January of spring, the Emperor journeyed to Ganquan and performed the suburban sacrifice at the Taiyi Altar. 

    The Marquis of Leling, Shi Gao—being a maternal kinsman of the Emperor—supervised the affairs of the State Secretariat, with General of the Van Xiao Wangzhi and the Grandee of Merit Zhou Kan as his deputies. Xiao Wangzhi, renowned for his learning in Confucianism, together with Zhou Kan, was trusted by the Emperor for their former service as tutors. The Emperor relied upon them, frequently hosting banquets at which they discoursed on governance, the restoration of order, and other affairs of state.

    Xiao Wangzhi recommended Liu Gengsheng—learned in the Confucian classics and a virtuous member of the imperial clan, then serving as Cavalier Attendant-in-Ordinary and Grandee of Remonstration—to serve as Palace Steward together with the Privy Counselor Jin Chang, two of the Emperor’s closest advisors. These four men, sharing a common purpose, advised the Emperor in accordance with ancient precedent and sought to rectify many disorders. The Emperor esteemed and embraced their counsel. Shi Gao, however, merely held his office without meaningful contribution, whereby estrangement grew between him and Xiao Wangzhi.

    The Chief of the Palace Secretariat, Hong Gong, together with his deputy, Shi Xian, had long overseen confidential and weighty affairs since the reign of Emperor Xuan. Both were eunuchs versed in statutes and regulations. When the present Emperor ascended the throne, he was frequently afflicted with illness. Because Shi Xian had long administered affairs, possessed no external ties or relatives, and was considered dependable in his expertise, the Emperor entrusted him with the conduct of government. All matters, great or small, were conveyed through Shi Xian to receive the Emperor’s decision. His favor and authority overshadowed the court, and all officials deferred to him.

    Shi Xian was quick-witted and deft in managing affairs, keenly discerning the Sovereign’s slightest inclinations. Yet in nature he was malicious, skilled in calumny and sophistry; those who gave him the least offense were subjected to harsh reprisals under the law. He was also closely aligned with the General of Chariots and Cavalry(Shi Gao), forming a powerful nexus between the inner court and the army. In deliberations, they clung rigidly to established practice and would not heed the proposals of Xiao Wangzhi and his associates.

    Xiao Wangzhi and the others were greatly troubled by the unchecked conduct of the Emperor’s maternal kin—the Xu and Shi clans—and were likewise concerned at the outsized influence held by Hong Gong and Shi Xian. They submitted a proposal, saying: “The Palace Secretariat is the pivot of governance and the vital mechanism of the state; it must be administered by upright and judicious ministers. Emperor Wu, because he often feasted and lingered in the rear chambers, employed eunuchs as his assistants; this was not in accord with ancient practice. The eunuchs serving in the Palace Secretariat should be dismissed, that we may conform to the ancient principle which forbids the mutilated from holding office.”

    This recommendation brought them into sharp conflict with Shi Gao, Hong Gong, and Shi Xian. At the beginning of his reign, the Emperor was humble and averse to sweeping change, wavering long without decision. Liu Gengsheng was transferred to the post of Minister of the Imperial Clan.

    Xiao Wangzhi and Zhou Kan frequently recommended eminent scholars and worthy men to serve as advisers. Zheng Peng of Kuaiji, seeking to attach himself to Xiao Wangzhi, submitted a memorial accusing the General of Chariots and Cavalry of dispatching agents to the commanderies and principalities to extort for private gain, and enumerating the crimes of the Xu and Shi clans. The memorial was handed down to Zhou Kan, who reported: “Let Zheng Peng be a scribe-in-waiting at the Jinma[gold horse] Gate.”

    Zheng Peng then wrote to Xiao Wangzhi, saying: “General, whom do you take as your examples? Are they like Guan Zhong and Yan Ying, who retired from court at midday? Or like the Duke of Zhou and Duke of Shao, who toiled past midday and forgot their meals, remaining at their posts until twilight? If you follow the way of Guan Zhong and Yan Ying and retire at noon, then I, a trifling man, shall return to the fields of Yanling and live out my days there like Ji Zha of Wu. But if you uphold the legacy of the Dukes of Zhou and Shao—working past sunset in attending state affairs, and listening broadly to all opinions—then I, a trifling man, am willing to devote the whole of my strength to but a ten-thousandth share of your exertions.”

    At first Xiao Wangzhi received him warmly, but when he discerned Zheng Peng’s deceitful nature, he broke off all contact. Zheng Peng, being of Chu origin, grew resentful and sought alliance with the Xu and Shi factions, disclosing to them all he had spoken previously, saying: “It was Zhou Kan and Liu Gengsheng who taught me these things; how would one from east of Hangu Pass know such matters on his own?” Because of this, the Privy Counselor Xu Zhang summoned him for questioning.

    Afterward, Zheng Peng publicly declared: “I have pointed out five lesser faults and one great crime of the General of the Van.” Hua Long, a scribe-in-waiting of sullied reputation, also sought to join Zhou Kan and his circle; when they refused him, he allied himself with Zheng Peng.

    Hong Gong and Shi Xian instructed Zheng Peng and Hua Long to accuse Xiao Wangzhi and his circle of conspiring to depose the General of Chariots and Cavalry and to expel the Xu and Shi clans. They awaited a day when Xiao Wangzhi was absent from court and had Zheng Peng and Hua Long present their charges. The case was then committed to Hong Gong for inquiry. When interrogated, Xiao Wangzhi said, “The imperial kinsmen in office are often extravagant and wanton. My intent is to rectify the state, not to do harm.”

    Hong Gong and Shi Xian memorialized: “Xiao Wangzhi, Zhou Kan, and Liu Gengsheng form factions, praising and promoting one another. They ceaselessly slander the high ministers, sow discord among the imperial relatives, and seek to monopolize authority. They are disloyal as ministers and deceitful toward the Throne. We request that palace heralds summon them to the Minister of Justice.”

    At this time, the Emperor had only recently ascended the throne and did not understand that being summoned to the Minister of Justice meant imprisonment. He approved their memorial. Later, when the Emperor sent for Zhou Kan and Liu Gengsheng, the reply was: “They are in prison.” The Emperor was greatly alarmed and said, “Is not the Minister of Justice merely conducting an inquiry?”

    The Emperor rebuked Hong Gong and Shi Xian; both knelt in supplication and begged forgiveness. The Emperor said, “Let them resume their duties.”

    Hong Gong and Shi Xian then had Shi Gao propose: “His Majesty has newly ascended the throne and has not yet manifested his virtue to the world; let us display it first to the Grand Tutor. Since the Minister of the Imperial Clan and the Grandee of Merit have already been imprisoned, it is fitting to pardon them through formal adjudication.”

    Thus an edict was issued to the Chancellor and the Imperial Censor: “General of the Van Xiao Wangzhi has served as my tutor for eight years and has no other transgressions. Now, as time has passed and clarity is hard to obtain, let him be pardoned. He shall be relieved of the offices of General of the Van and Chamberlain; his seal and ribbons shall be rescinded; and Zhou Kan and Liu Gengsheng shall be dismissed and reduced to commoners.”

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 215): The Emperor from Plebs

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 19 Scroll 27 (continued)

    Duling Tomb of Emperor Xuan of Han, Shaanxi Province

    The 4th year of Emperor Xuan’s Ganlu Era (50 B.C.)

    In summer, the Prince of Guangchuan, Liu Haiyang, was deposed and exiled to Fangling for engaging in lascivious and incestuous behavior and the unjust killing of innocent people.

    In October of winter, a fire broke out in the Xuanshi Hall of the Weiyang Palace.

    In this year, Prince of Dingtao, Liu Xiao was relocated and became the Prince of Chu.

    Both Xiongnu Chanyu Huhanye and Zhizhi sent envoys to the Han court with tributes. The Han treated the envoys of Huhanye with extra respect.

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Huanglong Era (49 B.C.)

    In January of spring, the Emperor went on a journey to Ganquan and performed a suburban sacrifice at the Taizhi altar.

    Xiongnu Chanyu Huhanye came to the Han court; in February, he returned to his country. 

    Zhizhi Chanyu thought that Huhanye‘s forces were weak and, subjugated by the Han, would not return to his territory. He then led his people westward, intending to annex the west region. Additionally, the younger brother of Tuqi Chanyu, who originally served Huhanye Chanyu, also fled to the west territory, gathered the remaining troops of his two brothers, and with several thousand men, declared himself Yilimu Chanyu. On the way, he encountered Zhizhi Chanyu, and they fought; Zhizhi Chanyu killed him and consolidated his forces, gaining more than fifty thousand men.

    Zhizhi Chanyu heard that the Han had sent troops through the valley to assist Huhanye and decided to remain in the west territory. Realizing that he could not establish control over all the Xiongnu, he moved further west, closer to Wusun, intending to form an alliance. He sent envoys to the Junior Kunmi, Wujiutu, but Wujiutu killed his envoys and dispatched eight thousand cavalry to confront Zhizhi Chanyu. Zhizhi Chanyu detected their plan, mobilized his troops, and attacked Wusun, defeating them. He then moved north to attack Wujie, Jiankun, and Dingling, conquering the three nations. He repeatedly sent troops to attack Wusun and always emerged victorious. Jiankun was seven thousand li east of the Chanyu court and five thousand li south of Jushi.  Zhizhi Chanyu established his capital at Jiankun.

    In March, a comet appeared in the constellations of Wangliang(Beta Cassiopeia) and Gedao(Epsilon Cassiopeiae), entering the constellation of Purple Forbidden Enclosure.

    The Emperor fell gravely ill and assembled his trusted senior ministers. He summoned his maternal relative and Privy Counselor, the Marquis of Leling Shi Gao, the Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince Xiao Wangzhi, and the Junior Tutor Zhou Kan to the forbidden inner palace. He appointed Shi Gao as Grand Marshal and General of Chariots and Cavalry, Xiao Wangzhi as General of the Van and Chamberlain, and Zhou Kan as Grandee of Merit. They all received the Emperor’s posthumous edict to assist in governance and oversee the State Secretariat. 

    In winter, on December 7, the Emperor Xuan passed away in Weiyang Palace.

    Ban Gu’s praising commentary: During Emperor Xuan’s reign, rewards and punishments were delivered with certainty, reputation and performance were meticulously examined. Those involved in administration, literature, and law enforcement were all highly competent. In terms of technical skills, craftsmanship, and tools, few subsequent reigns such as Emperor Yuan and Emperor Cheng’s could match the standards set during the eras of Emperor Xuan, which demonstrated what may look like when officials fulfilled their duties and the people lived in peace. 

    Encountering the time when the Xiongnu were riven by discord, He pressed down the one with lost moral compass and secured the one with moral standing, and with trusted might overawed the northern barbarians. The Chanyus, admiring his virtue, bowed their heads and declared themselves vassals. 

    His merit illumined the ancestors, his enterprise descended to his heirs; he may be said to have wrought a mid-renaissance era comparable in virtue to that of King Gaozong of Shang and King Xuan of the Zhou.

    On December 26, the Crown Prince(Liu Shi) ascended to the throne. He paid worship at the Emperor Gaozu Temple, honoring the Empress Dowager as the Grand Empress Dowager and the former Empress as the Empress Dowager.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 214): Qilin Hall of Fame

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 19 Scroll 27 (continued)

    Qilin Tower, Sanming, Fujian Province

    The 3rd year of Emperor Xuan’s Ganlu Era (51 B.C.)

    In January of spring,  the Emperor traveled to Ganquan and conducted a suburban sacrifice at the Taizhi altar.

    The Xiongnu Chanyu Huhanye came to the court, offering tribute and referring to himself as a vassal but not by name. He was bestowed with a diadem, robes, a golden seal with a red ribbon, a jade decorated sword and a decorated cutlass, a bow with four arrows, ten ceremonial halberds, a seated carriage, a saddle and bridle set, fifteen horses, twenty cattie of gold, two hundred thousand coins, seventy-seven sets of apparels, eight thousand bolts of brocade and silk, and six thousand cattie of cotton.

    After the ceremony, an envoy was sent to guide the Chanyu to stay at Changping for the night. The Emperor, having traveled from Ganquan, stayed at the Piyang Palace. From the Changping slope, the Emperor ordered that the Chanyu should not bow, and his attendants and all the ministers were allowed to observe, along with several tens of thousands of tribal chieftains, kings, and marquises from various distant lands, who all line the road, welcoming the Emperor below the Wei Bridge.   As the Emperor ascended the Wei Bridge, all proclaimed “Long live the Lord.” The Chanyu took residence in Chang’an.

    A banquet was held at the Jianzhang Palace to honor and bestow gifts upon the Chanyu, displaying rare treasures. 

    In February, Chanyu was sent back to his country. He requested to “remain south of the desert near the Guanglu Pass; I would seek refuge in the Han’s the city of surrender in case of emergency.” The Han court dispatched the Guard Commandant of Changle Palace, Marquis of Gaochang, Dong Zhong, and Commandant of Chariots and Cavalry, Han Chang, leading 16,000 cavalrymen, and mobilized thousands of soldiers and horses from the border commanderies to escort the Chanyu out of the Jilu Pass in Shuofang Commandery. An edict ordered Dong Zhong and others to stay and protect the Chanyu, assisting in suppressing disobedience, and to transport grain forward and back, totaling 34,000 bushels, to provide for their sustenance.

    Previously, all the countries from Wusun to Anxi, neighbors of the Xiongnu, feared them and slighted the Han. After the Chanyu Huhanye paid homage to the Han, they all revered the Han.

    To honor the compliance of the nomad tribes in the west and north and to recognize the outstanding ministers, portraits of these individuals were made and displayed in the Qilin Pavilion. Their likenesses were depicted, and their official titles and names were inscribed. Only Huo Guang was not named directly; he was referred to as “Grand Marshal, Grand General, Marquis of Bolu, surname Huo.” Next came Zhang Anshi, Han Zeng, Zhao Chongguo, Wei Xiang, Bing Ji, Du Yannian, Liu De, Liangqiu He, Xiao Wangzhi, and Su Wu. In total, eleven men renowned in their time were honored for their merits and achievements, thus they were showcased and celebrated, their contributions to the renaissance of the Han Dynasty were lauded, in the same sentence as ministers of Zhou like Fang Shu, Shao Hu, and Zhong Shanfu.

    Phoenix birds landed in Xincai County.

    On March 22, Marquis An of Jiancheng Huang Ba passed away. On May 12, Yu Dingguo became the Chancellor and was granted the title Marquis of Xiping. Grand Coachman Chen Wannian of Peijun became the Grand Master of Censorate.

    The Emperor issued an edict for the scholars to discuss similarities and differences of their exposition of Five Classics. Xiao Wangzhi and others reviewed and presented their debates, and the Emperor personally presided over the judging. Thus, scholar Liangqiu He‘s annotation of the Book of Change was established as the standard, in addition, Xiahou Sheng(Xiahou Senior) and Xiahou Jian(Xiahou Junior)’s annotation of the Book of Document and Guliang Chi‘s Spring and Autumn Annals were selected.  They were appointed as Erudites.

    The Great Kunmi of Wusun, Yuanguimi, and Chimi(Liu Jieyou’s son) both fell ill and died. The princess Liu Jieyou (their mother) wrote to the Emperor, saying: “I am old and homesick, and I wish to return my bones to be buried in the land of Han!” The Emperor sympathized and arranged for her return. In winter, she arrived at the capital and was treated according to the protocol accorded a princess. She passed away two years later.

    Yuanguimi‘s son, Xingmi, succeeded as the Great Kunmi, but he was weak. Madam Feng wrote to the Emperor: “I wish to go to Wusun as envoy to support and stabilize Xingmi.” The Emperor approved her mission. Protector-General Han Xuan suggested that the high officials of Wusun, Grand Minister and Grand Inspector, be awarded gold seals and purple ribbons to honor and assist the Great Kunmi. The Han court agreed. Later, Duan Huizong succeeded as Protector-General and comforted and settled the defectors, stabilizing the situation. Xingmi died, and his son Cilimi succeeded him.

    The favorite consort(Liangdi) of the Crown Prince, Lady Sima, fell ill and was near death. She said to the Crown Prince, “My death is not due to natural causes; it is caused by the curses and sorcery of the other consorts and attendants.” The Crown Prince believed her. Upon her death, he was overwhelmed with grief and anger, fell ill, and was deeply sad. 

    The Emperor then ordered the Empress to select a maid from the inner palace to entertain and serve the Crown Prince. They found Wang Zhengjun from Yuancheng and sent her to the Crown Prince’s palace. Wang Zhengjun was the granddaughter of Wang He, a former Embroidered-silk-gowned censor. She was presented at the Bing Chamber. She gained the Crown Prince’s favor and became pregnant. That year, she gave birth to Emperor Cheng in the Jia Chamber of the Painted Hall, becoming the first Imperial Grandson of the Emperor. The Emperor cherished him, naming him Liu Ao and giving him the courtesy name Dasun[The Grandson], always keeping him close by.

  • Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance(Part 213): From Maid to Diplomat

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 19 Scroll 27 (continued)

    Chigu[Red Valley](Issyk-Kul Lake), Kyrgyzstan. Photo by Dan Lundberg

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Ganlu Era (53 B.C. continued)

    When the Xiongnu‘s Chanyu Huhanye was defeated, the Left Yizhizi King advised Huhanye, suggesting that he should submit to the Han court, seek their assistance, and thus stabilize the Xiongnu. Huhanye Chanyu consulted his ministers, who all opposed the idea. They said, “This is impossible. The customs of the Xiongnu have always valued strength and despised being subjugated. We are a nation that fights on horseback, which has earned us our fame among all the aliens. To die in battle is the destiny of a warrior. Now, in the struggle for the throne, it will either go to an elder brother or to a younger brother. Even in death, we would still have our might, and our descendants would continue to rule over the other nations. Though the Han are strong, they still cannot annex Xiongnu. Why should we abandon our ancient customs, submit to the Han, disgrace the previous Chanyu, and become a laughing stock among the nations? Even if it brings peace, how can we continue to lead all the nomads?”

    Left Yizhizi King countered, “This is not true. The balance of power changes over time. Now, the Han are at their peak, and the states of Wusun and other fortified cities have all become their subjects. Since Qiedihou Chanyu time, the Xiongnu have been declining day by day, unable to recover. Even if we struggle mightily here, we have not had a single day of peace. Now, submitting to the Han will ensure our survival; otherwise, we face downfall and destruction. What better plan is there?”

    After a prolonged debate when other leaders challenged the Left Yizhizi King, Huhanye Chanyu accepted his  advice. He moved his people south closer to the Han border and sent his son, the Right Tuqi King Shulouqutang, to serve at the Han court. Zhizhi Chanyu also sent his son, the Right General Juyulishou, to serve at the Han court.

    On February 21, Marquis Xucheng, Xu Yanshou, passed away.

    In April of summer, a yellow dragon was seen in Xinfeng.

    On April 1, Emperor Gaozu‘s shrine caught fire; on April 9, the Emperor Wen‘s temple caught fire; the Emperor wore plain clothes and mourned for five days.

    The king of Wusun, known as the “Mad King,” married Princess Liu Jieyou of the Han, and they had a son named Chimi. However, he did not get along with the princess and was violent and cruel, losing the support of his people. The Han envoys, Guard Marshal Wei Heyi and his assistant, Ren Chang, arrived in Wusun. The princess said, “The Mad King is a disaster to Wusun and killing him should be easy..” 

    They then plotted to kill him during a banquet by having a soldier draw his sword and strike him. The sword struck off target, slipping to his side, only wounding the Mad King, who then mounted his horse and fled. His son Xishenshou gathered troops and surrounded Wei Heyi and Ren Chang, along with the princess, in Chigu(Yshtyk) City. After several months, Protector-General Zheng Ji led allied forces to rescue them, and the siege was lifted. The Han sent General of Household Zhang Zun with medicine to treat the Mad King and bestowed him gold and silk. Subsequently, Wei Heyi and Ren Chang were arrested, shackled, brought back to Chang’an in a wooden cage cart, and executed.

    Earlier the Fat King Wengguimi‘s son by a Xiongnu woman, Wujiutu, was frightened when the Mad King was injured. He fled with other Wusun chiefs(Yabghu) to live in the northern mountains, spreading rumors that the Xiongnu forces of his mother’s family were coming, thus regaining people’s support. Later, he attacked and killed the Mad King and established himself as Kunmi (King of Wusun). That same year, the Han sent General of Smashing Qiang, Xin Wuxian with an army of 15,000 to Dunhuang, to open canals and stockpile grain in preparation for an expedition against Wujiutu.

    Princess Liu Jieyou‘s former maid, Feng Liao, was skilled in document processing and familiar with state affairs of the Han. She had previously carried the Han envoy’s scepter for the princess, earning the respect and trust of the walled cities and states, who called her Madame Feng. She became the wife of the Right Grand General of Wusun. The Right Grand General and Wujiutu were close. Protector-General Zheng Ji sent Madame Feng to persuade Wujiutu that the Han army was advancing and would surely annihilate them, urging him to surrender. Terrified, Wujiutu said, “I wish to receive a junior title to settle myself!”

    The Emperor summoned Madame Feng to personally inquire about the situation. He sent Madame Feng as the envoy, Court Usher Zhu Ci and Court Guard Gan Yanshou as deputies, escorting Madame Feng. Madame Feng, in a brocade carriage with the envoy’s scepter, issued an imperial edict to Wujiutu, ordering him to meet Marquis Changluo, Chang Hui, in Chigu(Yshtyk) City. The Emperor then appointed Yuanguimi as the Great Kunmi and Wujiutu as the Junior Kunmi, bestowing upon them seals and ribbons. The General of Smashing Qiang(Xin Wuxian), without crossing the border, returned. Later, Wujiutu did not fully return with all the chiefs (Yabghu), so the Han court sent Marquis Changluo Chang Hui with three battalions to garrison Chigu and reassign the territories and populations. The Great Kunmi was assigned over 60,000 households, while the Junior Kunmi had over 40,000 households. However, the people’s allegiance remained with the Junior Kunmi.

    The 2nd year of Emperor Xuan’s Ganlu Era (52 B.C.)

    In January of spring, the Emperor established his son Liu Xiao as the Prince of Dingtao.

    A general amnesty was declared across the empire, and the head tax on the people was reduced by a quarter(30 out of 120).

    The Zhuya Commandery rebelled. In April of summer, Protector Commandant Zhang Lu led troops to suppress the rebellion.

    Du Yannian was relieved of his duties due to old age and illness. On May 1, Yu Dingguo was appointed as the Grand Master of Censorate.

    In September of autumn, the Emperor established his son Liu Yu as the Prince of Dongping.

    In December of winter, the Emperor traveled to Fuyang Palace and Shuyu Tower.

    Zhao Chongguo, the Marquis of Yingping and Marquis Zhuangwu, passed away this year. Previously, Zhao Chongguo had requested to retire due to old age, and he was granted a seated carriage drawn by four horses, and gold, and he was allowed to retire to his home. Whenever the court faced major issues involving the border tribes, he was often consulted for military strategies and planning.

    The Xiongnu Chanyu Huhanye approached the Wuyuan border, offering tribute, and the willingness of paying homage in January of next year. The Emperor ordered officials to discuss the appropriate rituals. The Chancellor and the Imperial Censor said, “According to the ancient system of the sage kings, the central court is prioritized over the principalities, and the principalities are above the barbarian tribes. When the Xiongnu Chanyu pays homage, his ceremonial rites should be equal to those of the princes and vassal kings, with his rank positioned just below them.”

    The Crown Prince’s Grand Tutor, Xiao Wangzhi, argued, “The Chanyu is not subject to our court system, and is thus considered a foreign power. We should treat him as a foreign guest, placing his rank above the princes and vassal kings. When foreign tribes bow and acknowledge their vassal status, and the Han accepts their submission without treating them as subjects, this embodies the principles of reining in cattle through kindness and enjoying the blessings of modesty. The ‘Book of Documents’ states: ‘The Rong and Di barbarians are untameable;’ indicating that their allegiance is fickle. If a future Xiongnu ruler hides and avoids appearing at court, they won’t be treated as rebellions.  This would be a long-term strategy for lasting peace.”

    The Emperor adopted this advice and issued an edict: “The Xiongnu Chanyu, referred to himself as the Northern Vassal, pays homage on January 1st of our calendar. Due to my lack of virtue, We cannot fully accept this enormous honor. Thus, he shall be treated with the respect due to a guest of the nation, with his rank above the princes and vassal kings. He will address himself as a subject but does not have to mention his name.”

    Xun Yue‘s commentary: The principle expressed in “Spring and Autumn Annals” is that the king has no external enemies, desiring to unify all under Heaven. The Rong and Di tribes are situated far away, and human contact is limited, so they are not influenced by our calendar system or ceremonial education. This is not out of respect, but due to the circumstances. The “Book of Songs” says, “From those Di and Rong tribes, none dare not come to see the king.” Therefore, the rulers of distant lands must present tribute to the king. If they do not fulfill their duties, then reprimands and commands are issued to them. They are not on equal footing  with our nation.

    Xiao Wangzhi wanted to treat them with respect due to foreign guests, placing them above princes and dukes, which is an overstep of authority, disrupting the natural order, and violation of propriety. If it were a temporary expedient, that would be a different matter.

    The Emperor issued an edict to send the Commandant of Chariots and Cavalry, Han Chang, to welcome the Chanyu. He dispatched 2,000 cavalrymen from the seven commanderies to line the road which Huhanye Chanyu passed through.

  • 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 Luli 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 Luli 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 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 198): Asking for Forgiveness Rather Than Permission

    Comprehensive Reflections to Aid in Governance

    By Sima Guang

    Translated By Yiming Yang  

    Annals of Han Book 17 Scroll 25 (continued)

    Shache(Yarkand) in 1870, Xinjiang

    The 1st year of Emperor Xuan’s Yuan’kang Era (65 B.C. continued)

    In that year, the Privy Treasurer, Song Chou, was demoted to Grand Tutor of the Prince of Sishui Liu Zong, for having once remarked: “When the phoenixes arrived at Pengcheng and had not yet reached the capital, the auspice lacked its full majesty; it might have been more fitting had they alighted upon the imperial precincts.”

    The Emperor appointed erudites and court remonstrators, who had been familiar with the administration of state affairs, to serve as prefects of commanderies and prime ministers of principalities. Xiao Wangzhi was made Prefect of Pingyuan. He submitted a memorial:

    “Your Majesty’s compassion for the people is admirable. Yet if erudites and remonstrators are sent forth to replace established officials, fearing only that Your benevolence might not reach afar, deeper concerns may be neglected. Should differing voices from remonstrators no longer be heard in court, errors may pass unnoticed, and matters of immediate urgency may overshadow the foundations of government.”

    The Emperor summoned Xiao Wangzhi and appointed him as the Privy Treasurer.

    The Prefect of Donghai, Yin Wenggui of Hedong, having excelled in his governance, was promoted to Intendant of Fufeng. Yin Wenggui was renowned for a penetrating insight into the virtues and faults of both officials and commoners under his jurisdiction. He recorded in detail the circumstances of each county and personally conducted oversight. When the magistrates handled the cases too harshly or swiftly, he made them slow down and be more lenient; If the magistrates got sloppy slightly, he reviewed their cases with careful diligence. Arrests were carried out during the autumn and winter assessments or when he visited the counties, ensuring that the accused would not linger long in confinement; those seized served as warnings to the rest. Thus officials and commoners alike held him in reverence and fear, and each strove to amend himself.

    As Prefect of Fufeng, he selected incorruptible and capable subordinates, treated them with respect regardless of his personal preference, yet dealt strictly with those who betrayed his trust. Though his merits were eminent, he remained modest and without pride, and his name became highly esteemed in the court.

    At first, Wannian, younger son of the Princess of Wusun Liu Jieyou, was cherished by the King of Shache. When the King of Shache died without an heir and Wannian was then residing at the Han court, the people of Shache, seeking alliance with Han and favor from Wusun, petitioned that Wannian be established as their king under Han authority. The court agreed and dispatched Xi Chongguo as envoy to escort Wannian back to Shache. Yet when Wannian ascended the throne, he proved cruel and harsh, and the people bitterly resented him.

    The Emperor ordered his ministers to recommend envoys to the Western Regions. The General of Van Han Zeng recommended Feng Fengshi of Shangdang to serve as Captain of the Guard, bearing the imperial scepter and escorting the tribute envoys of Dayuan and other polities to Yixun City. Meanwhile, Hutu Zheng, younger brother of the former King of Shache, conspired with neighboring states to assassinate King Wannian and the Han envoy Xi Chongguo, and then declared himself king. At the same time, the Xiongnu attacked Jushi City, but failed to take it and withdrew. The new king of Shache then sent envoys falsely reporting that the northern states had submitted to the Xiongnu and began raiding the southern route, forming a coalition against Han and cutting off communications west of Shanshan.

    At this time, the Protector-General of the Western Regions, Zheng Ji, and Colonel Sima Xi maintained military farms among the northern states. Feng Fengshi and his lieutenant Yan Chang argued that if they did not act quickly, Shache would grow powerful and threaten the entire Western Regions. Therefore, they issued an order in the Emperor’s name to the kings of the western states, mobilizing 15,000 troops from the northern and southern routes to attack Shache, and they captured its capital. The king committed suicide, and his head was sent to Chang’an. Another younger brother was appointed king in his stead. Peace having returned among the western states, Feng Fengshi disbanded the army and reported the victory to the court. The Emperor summoned Han Zeng and said: “Let congratulations be extended to General Han; you have chosen a worthy man.”

    Feng Fengshi then journeyed farther west to Dayuan. When the people of Dayuan heard that he had slain the King of Shache, they received him with honor surpassing that shown to previous envoys, and presented him with a famed steed called the “Dragon Horse.” The Emperor was greatly delighted and considered granting Feng Fengshi a noble title. The Chancellor and the generals all agreed, but the Privy Treasurer Xiao Wangzhi remonstrated: “Feng Fengshi, though an envoy, acted on his own authority and forged an imperial command to mobilize troops. Though he achieved merit, such conduct must not be made precedent. If he is ennobled, future envoys will seek fame by raising arms, provoking distant tribes and inviting calamities upon the realm. Feng Fengshi should not be granted a noble.”

    The Emperor approved Xiao Wangzhi’s counsel and instead appointed Feng Fengshi Grand Master of Merit.

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

    In January of spring, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm.

    The Emperor intended to establish an Empress. At that time, the mothers of Princess Guantao, Hua Jieyu[Lady of Handsome Fairness], mother of Prince Xian of Huaiyang, Zhang Jieyu, mother of Prince Xiao of Chu, and Wei Jieyu were all in favor. The Emperor at first wished to install Zhang Jieyu as Empress. Yet wavering for long and taking lessons from the treasonous plot of Huo Chengjun against the Crown Prince, the Emperor resolved instead to choose a palace woman who had no children of her own and was prudent and discreet.

    Accordingly, on February 26, Wang Jieyu[Lady of Handsome Fairness Wang] of Changling was established as Empress, and was commanded to rear the Crown Prince. Her father, Wang Fengguang, was ennobled as Marquis of Qiongcheng. The Empress was not beloved and seldom received imperial audiences.

    In May, an edict was issued:

    “The handling of legal cases concerns the lives of the people. If the living bear no resentment and the dead no grievance, then the officials may be deemed worthy. Yet it is not so today. Some officials manipulate the laws with cunning, twisting statutes to obscure their meaning, and justice fails to be impartial. Their written reports do not accord with the facts, and even We cannot discern the truth. How, then, can the people place their trust in their superiors? Let all officials of two-thousand-picul rank examine their subordinates and dismiss such men.

    “Some officials impose excessive labor, embellish relay hostels, entertain travelers extravagantly, exceeding the law in pursuit of name and reputation. This is like treading thin ice beneath the burning sun—perilous indeed! Now an epidemic spreads widely, and We grieve for the suffering of the people. Wherever calamity has struck most severely, taxation for this year shall be remitted.”

    Another edict declared:

    “The ancient emperors chose personal names seldom encountered, so that prohibition of their use caused no hardship. Therefore, my personal name shall be altered to be Liu Xun, so that it may be easily avoided.”

  • 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.