Rituals and Military Campaigns in Ancient China

In the fifth year of spring, during the first month, on the days of Jiaxu and Jichou, Duke Bao of Chen passed away. In the summer, the Lords of Qi and Zheng visited Ji, while the Heavenly King sent the son of Shusun to propose a marriage alliance. The burial of Duke Huan of Chen took place, and the city of Zhuqiu was built. In autumn, forces from the states of Cai, Wei, and Chen joined the king in an expedition against Zheng. Grand sacrifices were performed, and the fields were filled with the sound of cicadas. In winter, Duke Zhou of Zhou visited Cao, marking a critical diplomatic move for his state.

In the spring of the fifth year, during the first month, on Jiaxu and Jichou days, Duke Bao of Chen passed away, causing turmoil in the state. Duke Wen’s son, Tuo, killed the eldest son and took his place, as the state faced internal strife and disorder due to the Duke’s illness. The people were scattered, prompting another visit. In summer, the Lords of Qi and Zheng went to Ji, aiming to surprise them, but the people of Ji were aware of their intentions. The king intervened in Zheng’s politics, causing Zheng’s lord to refuse the visit. In autumn, the king led an alliance of states to attack Zheng, with Zheng’s lord leading the central forces. Duke Linfu of Guo commanded the right flank, supported by troops from Cai and Wei, while Duke Heijian of Zhou led the left flank, supported by troops from Chen. Zheng Ziyuan proposed to defend the left flank against Cai and Wei, and to defend the right flank against Chen, stating, “With Chen in chaos, the people have no fighting spirit. If we strike first, they will surely flee. The king will then be forced to look back, causing chaos. Cai and Wei are weak and will likely flee first, then gather near the king’s forces. We can seize the opportunity.” His plan was accepted. Manbo commanded the right flank, while Jiezhong served on the left. Yuanfan and Gaoqumi commanded the central forces, supporting the duke’s strategy, creating a wedge-shaped formation with overlapping units. The battle took place at Xuge, with the order to “move the flags with the drums.” Cai, Wei, and Chen all fled, causing chaos among the king’s troops, and Zheng’s forces united to attack them, resulting in a major defeat for the king. Zhudan shot the king in the shoulder, but the king managed to continue leading the army. Zhudan requested to join him, but the duke said, “A nobleman should not seek to surpass others, let alone dare to challenge the Son of Heaven! If we save ourselves, our state and people will not fall. There are already many challenges.” That night, Duke Zheng sent Jiezu to comfort the king and inquire about his condition. The son of Shusun, however, was weak. In autumn, a grand sacrifice was held, but it was performed out of season. All rituals began with the awakening of hibernating animals and the suburban spirits. The dragon appeared during the grand sacrifice, which started the festival, and the festival included sacrifices before the hibernation and incense burning. During the winter, Duke Chunyu visited Cao, reflecting on the decline of his state and the lack of a return.