“Rise and Fall of the Lu State”

The ancient Chinese text describes the tumultuous history of the State of Lu, detailing the rise and fall of its rulers and the challenges they faced. The story begins with the declaration of orders and prohibitions to ensure the safety and stability of the state. The people of Lu were instructed to return any lost horses, cattle, or escaped servants they found, and to refrain from stealing or causing disturbances.

The people of Lu were organized into groups to manage resources and protect the state. They stored food, fodder, and building materials to support the military. The leaders ensured that everyone contributed to these efforts. In the year marked as Jiaxu, they prepared to attack the Xurong tribes, emphasizing the importance of following orders or facing severe punishment, including the death penalty.

This strict governance led to the successful subjugation of the Xurong tribes and the stabilization of the State of Lu. After the passing of Duke Boqin, his son Kao Duke took over, followed by Duke Yao, who constructed the Mao Gate and passed away in his sixth year of rule. His son, Duke You, ascended the throne but was later murdered by his brother Xi, who declared himself Duke Wei. Duke Wei ruled for fifty years before his son, Duke Li, succeeded him. Duke Li’s rule lasted thirty-seven years, and upon his death, his brother Duke Xian took the throne. Duke Xian’s rule was noted for being relatively peaceful and lasting thirty-two years, followed by his son, Duke Zhen.

Duke Zhen’s rule saw significant turmoil as the Zhou Dynasty weakened. King Li of Zhou was overthrown, and the state entered a period of administrative chaos known as the Gonghe Regency. During this time, the feudal lords, including Duke Zhen, asserted more independence. Duke Zhen ruled for thirty years, after which his brother Duke Ao took over and was later succeeded by Duke Wu.

Duke Wu’s reign was notable for his interactions with the Zhou royal family. He and his sons paid homage to King Xuan of Zhou, who preferred his younger son over the elder, causing internal conflict. The king’s advisor warned that favoring the younger son over the elder would lead to rebellion and instability, a prediction that came true when Duke Wu died and his younger son, Duke Yi, was installed as the heir, causing unrest.

Duke Yi’s rule was short-lived as his brother Bo attacked and killed him, seizing power. This led to King Xuan of Zhou launching a campaign against Lu, killing Bo and seeking a new ruler among the Lu nobles. Fan Mu, a respected noble, suggested Duke Yi’s brother, Duke Cheng, who was known for his respect towards elders and adherence to traditions. Duke Cheng was appointed and ruled wisely, ensuring the state’s stability.

Duke Cheng’s rule saw a decline in the central Zhou authority, with many feudal lords defying royal commands. His rule lasted twenty-seven years, and he was succeeded by his son, Duke Hui. Duke Hui’s rule saw internal strife and conflicts with the neighboring State of Jin. His son, Duke Yin, took over after his death and had a controversial rule. Duke Yin’s lack of direct heirs led to his concubine Shengzi’s son, Duke Yan, being chosen as his successor.

Duke Yan’s rule was marked by his rivalry with his brother’s son, Duke Huan. Duke Huan’s supporters plotted to kill Duke Yan, leading to Duke Huan taking over. Duke Huan’s rule was marked by military campaigns, internal conflicts, and attempts to consolidate power. He dealt with invasions from neighboring states and internal plots, struggling to maintain control.

Duke Huan’s ambition led to conflicts with the powerful State of Qi. His refusal to listen to advisors and attempts to assert dominance over his nobles resulted in betrayal and his eventual assassination during a visit to Qi. His death plunged the State of Lu into further turmoil as his son, Duke Zhuang, faced the challenge of restoring order and legitimacy.

This historical account illustrates the complex dynamics of power, loyalty, and governance in ancient China. The rulers of Lu navigated through periods of stability and chaos, dealing with internal and external threats, and their stories provide insight into the challenges of maintaining authority and order in a feudal society. The rise and fall of the State of Lu reflect the broader struggles within the Zhou Dynasty as it faced fragmentation and the eventual emergence of new power centers.