When Goujian, the ruler of the state of Yue in ancient China, received valuable counsel from his advisor Fan Li when he found himself trapped on Mount Kuaiji by King Fuchai of Wu.
Fan Li advised Goujian on how to navigate this dire situation and emphasized that in times of crisis, one must prioritize preserving one’s life, even if it required employing humble speech and actions or serving as a minister to the enemy, as illustrated in the famous story of “sleeping on brushwood and tasting gall.”
Following a period of “ten years of gathering and ten years of learning,” Goujian diligently worked to govern his kingdom effectively. Eventually, he managed to wash away the shame of his captivity on Mount Kuaiji and emerged as a regional hegemon, wielding significant influence in the region.
During the era of conflict between the two kingdoms, pivotal figures played significant roles in their respective states besides the two reigning kings. In the Wu kingdom, Prime Minister Wu Zixu and Taizai Bo Pi held crucial positions, shaping the kingdom’s fate. Meanwhile, in the Yue kingdom, two high-ranking officials, Daifu, Wen Zhong, and Fan Li, played pivotal roles.
Fan Li stood out among these figures for his exceptional intelligence, sharp wit, and unwavering loyalty to his country. He became a legendary figure, renowned for assisting the King of Yue to reclaim and restore his kingdom during a tumultuous conflict.
Acting with honesty and integrity
After the restoration of the Yue Kingdom, Fan Li harbored concerns about amassing too much power, which could potentially threaten the king. As a result, Fan Li adopted a series of measures to balance his influence. He generously distributed his wealth among neighbors, friends, and relatives, voluntarily resigned from his official position, and chose a humble life by the seaside to farm and engage in business.
In the historical account in Records of the Grand Historian, Fan Li’s strategy for accumulating wealth is described as “completing the merchandise,” meaning he emphasized the importance of providing high-quality goods and selling perishable items promptly. Additionally, he adhered to the principle of “no interest,” which involved expediting money circulation and avoiding hoarding it for selfish gain.
Fan Li’s reputation for honesty and integrity endeared him to the people, and he cultivated strong relationships within his community. He frequently helped those in need, sometimes leading to unexpected gains when he needed help. This virtuous and altruistic approach contributed to his enduring popularity and success.
Virtuous acts bring good fortune
Another vital reason why Fan became wealthy through business was his commitment to being kind and virtuous as his guiding philosophy in life.
According to legend, Fan once faced financial difficulties and had to borrow 100,000 coins from a wealthy household. A year later, the rich man came to collect the debt, accompanied by numerous promissory notes. Unfortunately, the documents fell into the water, losing the promissory notes and travel expenses. The rich man was devastated and went to Fan’s house to explain the situation.
Remarkably, even without the promissory notes, Fan still repaid the money with interest and generously provided the man with travel expenses. The man was extremely grateful, and Fan’s kindness and generosity became well-known throughout the land.
Fan’s secret to becoming wealthy was rooted in his honesty, integrity, and virtue. Among later generations, he became known as the “god of wealth” and the “saint of commerce,” a testament to his exemplary character and success in business.
