“Seasoned Warrior: The Story of Ji Bu”
Ji Bu, a native of Chu, was renowned for his loyalty and valor. In the tumultuous period following the fall of the Qin Dynasty, he played a significant role in the struggles between the contending powers. This narrative explores the life and times of Ji Bu, his relationship with other notable figures, and his actions during critical moments in Chinese history.
Ji Bu was known for his upright and chivalrous character, qualities that earned him a notable reputation in the Chu region. During the conflicts that ensued after the fall of the Qin Dynasty, he served under Xiang Yu, one of the most powerful warlords of the time. Xiang Yu’s forces repeatedly challenged the Han forces led by Liu Bang, who would later become the founding emperor of the Han Dynasty. Ji Bu’s military prowess and loyalty to Xiang Yu made him a significant figure during this period.
After Xiang Yu’s defeat and the establishment of the Han Dynasty, Liu Bang, now Emperor Gaozu, sought to capture Ji Bu. A bounty of a thousand gold pieces was offered for his capture, and anyone found harboring him would be punished severely. Ji Bu went into hiding with the help of a man named Zhu, who disguised him as a slave and sold him to a noble family in Lu. Despite the danger, Zhu’s loyalty to Ji Bu was unwavering, and he even traveled to the capital to plead for Ji Bu’s pardon.
In an audience with Liu Bang’s confidant, Teng Gong, Zhu argued that Ji Bu had only served his former master, Xiang Yu, out of duty and not malice. He emphasized Ji Bu’s virtues and loyalty, persuading Teng Gong to intercede on Ji Bu’s behalf. Teng Gong presented this argument to the emperor, who was moved by the appeal and decided to pardon Ji Bu. Ji Bu was then summoned to the court, where he expressed his gratitude and was appointed as a Langzhong, a mid-ranking official.
Ji Bu’s loyalty and service continued under the reign of Emperor Hui. He was appointed as a Zhonglang Jiang (Major General) and demonstrated his diplomatic skills during a delicate situation with the Xiongnu, a nomadic people threatening the Han borders. The Xiongnu’s leader had sent an insulting letter to Empress Dowager Lü, causing outrage in the court. While other officials, including the general Fan Kuai, advocated for military action, Ji Bu wisely cautioned against it, reminding them of the heavy losses suffered by the Han in previous campaigns. His prudent advice helped prevent unnecessary conflict.
Ji Bu’s later career saw him appointed as the governor of Hedong, where he was known for his fair and efficient administration. However, he also had detractors who criticized him for being difficult to approach and prone to excessive drinking. Despite these criticisms, Ji Bu’s reputation as a capable and loyal official remained intact.
A notable incident in Ji Bu’s life involved Cao Qiu Sheng, a persuasive orator and opportunist known for currying favor with the powerful. Cao sought an audience with Ji Bu, hoping to secure a position or favor. Initially, Ji Bu was wary of Cao’s reputation and avoided him. However, Cao cleverly appealed to Ji Bu’s sense of honor and reputation, citing a popular saying from Chu: “A hundred pieces of gold are not worth a single promise from Ji Bu.” Flattered and convinced by Cao’s argument, Ji Bu welcomed him and treated him generously. This incident further enhanced Ji Bu’s reputation for being a man of his word.
Ji Bu’s family also played notable roles in this period. His brother, Ji Xin, was known for his bravery and loyalty, serving in the Han military. However, another relative, Ding Gong, faced a tragic fate. Ding Gong had once spared Liu Bang during a critical battle, an act of mercy that later led to his downfall. When he came to pay respects to Liu Bang after the establishment of the Han Dynasty, Liu Bang had him executed, accusing him of betraying Xiang Yu. This harsh act was intended as a warning to others about loyalty and the consequences of switching allegiances.
Another prominent figure associated with Ji Bu was Luan Bu, a man from the Liang region who had shared a close relationship with the Liang king, Peng Yue. After a period of hardship and being sold into servitude, Luan Bu rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a military leader under the Han. Despite the tragic end of Peng Yue, Luan Bu remained loyal to his benefactor, even mourning him publicly, which almost cost him his life. However, Luan Bu’s eloquent defense of Peng Yue’s contributions and his own loyalty to the Han Dynasty convinced the emperor to spare him. Luan Bu’s later career saw him serving as the governor of Yan, where he became known for his fair administration and military prowess.
In conclusion, Ji Bu’s story is one of loyalty, valor, and the complexities of serving under different regimes. His life exemplifies the virtues of a true warrior, loyal to his cause and his comrades. Despite the political turmoil of the time, Ji Bu navigated these challenges with integrity and honor. His legacy, along with that of his contemporaries, provides valuable insights into the nature of loyalty, duty, and the delicate balance of power in ancient China. The stories of these individuals, as recorded by historians like Sima Qian, continue to inspire and educate, highlighting the timeless values of courage and integrity.