Loyalty in Ancient China

Winter met with sorrow, and a plan was made to defend the state. Fan Xuanzi borrowed feathers from Qi and never returned them, leading the Qi people to start doubting their alliance. The Chu general Zinan returned from the war against Wu and passed away. Before his death, he left a final wish for his son Zigeng: “You must fortify the city of Ying.”

The wise men of the time remarked: “Zinan was loyal. Even as the ruler was on his deathbed, he did not forget to enhance his reputation. On the brink of death, he still remembered to safeguard the state. Can such loyalty be doubted? Loyalty is what the people expect. The Book of Songs says: ‘He travels and returns to Zhou, the hope of ten thousand people.’ This is loyalty.”

In ancient China, loyalty was a virtue held in the highest regard, deeply embedded in the moral fabric of society. It was considered a fundamental quality of a noble person and a pillar of governance and social harmony. The story of Zinan and his final words exemplifies this value, reflecting the unwavering dedication to the state and the ruler, even in the face of death.

The significance of loyalty in ancient Chinese culture can be traced back to Confucian teachings, where loyalty (忠, zhōng) was a crucial aspect of the Five Constants (五常, wǔ cháng), which also included benevolence (仁, rén), righteousness (义, yì), propriety (礼, lǐ), and wisdom (智, zhì). Confucius emphasized that loyalty to one’s superiors, especially the ruler, was essential for maintaining order and harmony within the state. This loyalty was not blind obedience but a steadfast commitment to the well-being of the country and its people.

The tale of Zinan illustrates several key aspects of loyalty in ancient China:

Loyalty to the Ruler: Zinan’s final wish to fortify the city of Ying underscores his dedication to the ruler and the state. His concern for the state’s security, even at the brink of death, shows his deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the ruler’s legacy.

Loyalty to the State: In addition to loyalty to the ruler, there was also a strong emphasis on loyalty to the state. Zinan’s actions reflect his dedication to the protection and stability of the state of Chu, demonstrating that loyalty extended beyond personal allegiance to the ruler and encompassed the broader well-being of the state.

Loyalty as a Moral Expectation: The commentary by the wise men highlights that loyalty was a moral expectation and a social norm. It was what the people looked up to and relied upon. This societal expectation reinforced the importance of loyalty as a guiding principle in both personal conduct and governance.

Loyalty and Legacy: The reference to the Book of Songs suggests that loyalty was not only a present virtue but also a legacy to be remembered and honored. Zinan’s loyalty ensured that his name would be remembered positively, contributing to his lasting legacy and serving as a model for future generations.

Loyalty and Cultural Identity: Loyalty was a defining feature of Chinese cultural identity. It was celebrated in literature, philosophy, and historical records, shaping the collective consciousness and values of Chinese society. Stories of loyal officials and generals were passed down through generations, reinforcing the cultural importance of this virtue.

In practice, loyalty in ancient China often required personal sacrifice. Officials and generals were expected to put the interests of the state and the ruler above their own, sometimes even at the cost of their lives. This selflessness was seen as the highest form of loyalty and was greatly admired and respected.

The story of Fan Xuanzi and the borrowed feathers from Qi also touches on themes of loyalty and trust. The failure to return the borrowed feathers led to mistrust and a weakened alliance, highlighting how breaches of loyalty could have significant political and social consequences. Trust was a critical component of loyalty, and maintaining it was essential for stable and harmonious relations between states and individuals.

Overall, loyalty in ancient China was a multifaceted virtue that played a crucial role in shaping the social and political landscape. It was a cornerstone of Confucian ethics and governance, influencing personal behavior, statecraft, and cultural identity. The enduring stories of loyal figures like Zinan serve as a testament to the deep-rooted value of loyalty in Chinese history and its continued relevance in understanding Chinese culture and society.

In conclusion, the virtue of loyalty in ancient China was more than just a personal quality; it was a societal pillar that ensured the stability and harmony of the state. Zinan’s story, along with countless others, exemplifies the profound impact of loyalty on Chinese culture, illustrating how this value has shaped the moral and ethical framework of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.