Ancient China’s Political Intrigue
The Seventeenth Year of Duke Xi’s Reign
In the spring of the seventeenth year, the ruler of Xiao Zhu, Duke Mu, visited the court of Lu, where he was warmly received. During the banquet, Duke Mu recited the poem “Cai Shu,” and Duke Xi replied with “Jing Jing Zhe E.” Zhaozi, a high-ranking official, commented, “Without proper governance, how can a country endure for long?”
In the summer of the same year, on the first day of June, there was a solar eclipse. The court astrologers requested ceremonial currency for the rites. Zhaozi explained, “When a solar eclipse occurs, the emperor refrains from public appearances and drums are sounded at the shrine. The feudal lords use currency at the shrine and drums in the court as a ritual.” Pingzi, another official, insisted, “Only on the first day of the first month, when the evil has not yet arisen, is it appropriate to use drums and currency during a solar eclipse. This is the ritual. Otherwise, it is not permitted.”
The chief historian disagreed, stating, “This month, when the day exceeds its limit and disasters befall the celestial bodies, it is customary for officials to offer sacrifices, and the ruler to remain unseen. This is recorded in the Xia books: ‘When celestial bodies do not align, the blind musicians play the drums, the couriers ride hastily, and the commoners flee.’ This refers to the first day of the month in the Xia calendar, which is the fourth month in the summer.”
Pingzi refused to comply, causing Zhaozi to withdraw in frustration, stating, “Our ruler has different ambitions now and does not rule as a true leader should.”
The Geopolitical Landscape and Rituals
In the autumn, the ruler of Tan, Duke Tanzi, also visited Lu, where he was entertained. During their meeting, Zhaozi inquired about the custom of naming officials after birds during the reign of Shao Hao. Duke Tanzi responded, “I am a descendant of Shao Hao and knowledgeable about this. In ancient times, the Yellow Emperor used clouds to mark the seasons, so he named his officials after clouds. The Yan Emperor used fire, and so his officials were named after fire. The Gong Gong clan used water, and their officials were named after water. The Da Hao clan used dragons, and their officials were named after dragons. My ancestor Shao Hao named his officials after birds because a phoenix arrived during his reign. The Phoenix clan managed the calendar, while other bird-named clans managed various seasonal duties and the people’s affairs. Since the time of Zhuan Xu, this system of naming has been simplified and adapted to more immediate concerns, leading to the current practices.”
Upon hearing this, Confucius visited Duke Tanzi to learn more, remarking, “I have heard it said that ‘when the emperor loses his position, learning is found among the barbarians.’ This proves true.”
The Conquest of the Rong and Celestial Omens
In the same autumn, Xun Wu, a general of Jin, led an army to destroy the Lu Hun Rong. The Zhou advisor, Chang Hong, advised Liuzi, “The guest looks fierce; this is not for a sacrificial offering but likely an attack on the Rong. The Lu Hun Rong are close allies of Chu. Our lord should prepare.” Consequently, the Zhou forces readied themselves for defense.
On the 7th of September, General Xun Wu crossed the Jizhen River and conducted a sacrificial ceremony at Lu. The Lu Hun Rong were unaware of the advancing army, which led to their defeat on the 10th of September. The Rong leader fled to Chu, and his people scattered to Ganlu. The Zhou army captured many, fulfilling a prophecy seen in a dream by Xun Wu, where the late Duke Wen of Jin handed him the Lu Hun Rong territory.
In winter, a comet appeared in the constellation of Great Fire, extending to the River of Heaven (the Milky Way). The advisor Shenshu interpreted this as a sign of renewal and purification. He speculated that it portended fire-related disasters among the feudal states, particularly affecting Song, Wei, Chen, and Zheng, all associated with fire constellations.
The Battle of Chang’an and its Aftermath
During this time, Wu invaded Chu, leading to a battle at Chang’an. The commander of Chu, Yang Gai, consulted the oracle, which initially predicted misfortune. However, the military advisor, Sima Ziyu, suggested a new divination, which promised victory. Despite the initial prophecy, Chu forces ultimately triumphed, capturing Wu’s commander, Yu Huang.
Following their victory, the Chu forces executed a cunning stratagem to recover their ceremonial boat, Yu Huang, from the Wu forces, leading to significant losses for Wu and a decisive victory for Chu.
These historical events highlight the intricate political and military maneuvers in ancient China, intertwined with celestial omens and rituals. The use of poetry and historical references illustrates the depth of cultural heritage and the belief in heavenly signs guiding earthly affairs. Confucius’ quest for knowledge from other cultures underscores the enduring value placed on learning and wisdom. The defeat of the Rong and the battle of Chang’an showcase the ever-present conflicts and alliances shaping the geopolitical landscape of the time.