The Struggle for Power in Ancient Qin and Jin

The Historical Context of Qin and Jin

In the early spring of the ninth year of Duke Xiang of Jin, the armies of Qin and Jin faced each other in a tense standoff. The rulers of both states decided to withdraw their troops, avoiding a costly battle. Shortly after, Duke Wen of Jin passed away, and his son Duke Xiang ascended the throne. That same year, the ruler of Zheng also died, leaving the state in turmoil.

The Betrayal in Zheng

Some individuals in Zheng attempted to sell out their country to Qin. According to records, Qin and Jin had previously planned to invade Zheng, but a wise diplomat from Zheng, Zhuozhi Wu, managed to dissuade Qin, resulting in both armies retreating. However, three prominent officials from Zheng—Qi Zi, Feng Sun, and Yang Sun—conspired to betray Zheng to Qin. Qi Zi, who was responsible for guarding the northern gate of Zheng, secretly informed Qin that if they launched a surprise attack, the state could easily be captured.

The Bold Move of Qin

In response to the invitation, Duke Mu of Qin mobilized his army and launched a surprise attack on Zheng. By December, the Qin army had reached the outskirts of Zheng. However, Zheng’s merchant Xian Gao, who was on his way to trade in Zhou, encountered the Qin forces and cleverly offered twelve oxen to appease them. Surprised by this gesture, the Qin army hesitated and eventually withdrew, deciding instead to sack the nearby town of Hua.

Internal Strife in Jin

Back in Jin, General Xian Zhen advised attacking Qin, arguing that Duke Mu had lost the support of his people by ignoring the advice of his trusted advisor, Jian Shu. However, another advisor, Luan Zhi, cautioned against this, reminding the court of the benevolent relationship Jin owed to Qin. Nonetheless, Xian Zhen’s argument prevailed, and Jin launched an attack on Qin.

Duke Xiang, mourning the recent death of his father, dressed in mourning attire to lead his army. In April, the Jin forces defeated the Qin army at the Battle of Yao, capturing three prominent Qin generals—Meng Ming Shi, Xi Qi Shu, and Bai Yi Bing. Duke Xiang decided to wear mourning clothes for the burial of Duke Wen, which was deemed inappropriate by some but seen as a significant gesture of filial piety.

Qin’s Retaliation

Three years later, Qin launched a retaliatory campaign against Jin, led by Meng Ming Shi. The Qin forces captured the strategic location of Wangguan. Despite this success, internal conflict and disagreements over strategy plagued the Qin court. Duke Mu’s decision to embalm the bodies of the fallen soldiers from the Battle of Yao before retreating showed a lack of confidence and failure to capitalize on their initial victory.

The Ascendancy of Duke Xiang

The seventh year of Duke Xiang’s reign saw his death and the succession crisis in Jin. The courtiers debated whether to install Duke Xiang’s young son Yi Gao or another elder relative. Zhao Dun argued for the appointment of Duke Xiang’s brother Yong, emphasizing his virtues and the benefits of maintaining a good relationship with Qin. Others, like Jia Ji, favored another candidate, Le, citing his connections and the peace his rule might bring. Ultimately, Zhao Dun’s counsel prevailed, and Yong was installed as ruler.

Duke Ling and the Crisis in Jin

The reign of Duke Ling marked a period of significant internal strife. Known for his extravagance and harsh taxation policies, Duke Ling alienated many of his subjects. His behavior, including the cruel execution of a cook who failed to prepare a bear’s paw properly, led to widespread discontent. Advisors Zhao Dun and Sui Hui repeatedly cautioned Duke Ling against his excesses, but their warnings went unheeded.

The Assassination Plot

Fearing the growing discontent, Duke Ling plotted to kill Zhao Dun. He ordered the warrior Chu Ni to carry out the assassination, but Chu Ni, moved by Zhao Dun’s integrity, chose to take his own life instead. Zhao Dun, once saved a starving man under a mulberry tree, who later turned out to be the same person who saved him from assassination, showing the virtuous cycle of kindness.

The Overthrow of Duke Ling

Zhao Dun eventually fled the capital but did not leave Jin territory. His brother Zhao Chuan led an attack against Duke Ling, ultimately assassinating him in the Tao Garden. Zhao Dun was reinstated, highlighting the respect and support he had among the people. The young and extravagant Duke Ling, who had failed to garner popular support, was easily overthrown.

This period in Chinese history is marked by a complex interplay of power, loyalty, and betrayal. The actions of key figures in Qin and Jin shaped the course of events, leading to both internal strife and external conflict. The leadership transitions, the strategic decisions made during battles, and the moral choices of individuals reveal a richly textured narrative of ancient Chinese statecraft and politics.