In traditional Chinese philosophy, the character for “trustworthiness” (信) is composed of the characters for “person” (人) and “speech” (言). This emphasizes that trustworthiness is a combination of one’s actions and words. It serves as the bedrock of personal integrity and the cornerstone upon which societies and nations are built. Lacking this quality, neither an individual nor a community can thrive.
Tensions of the Three Kingdoms era
During a pivotal period in the Three Kingdoms era, Zhuge Liang, the Chief Strategist of the state of Shu Han, was gearing up for another military campaign against their rivals, the Wei state. Anticipating the challenges of long-term warfare, he devised a logistical strategy to ensure a steady supply of provisions to the frontlines. Meanwhile, Wei’s Emperor personally commanded operations from their capital city, and his general, Sima Yi, led a formidable force of 300,000 soldiers heading straight to Qishan.
Faced with the formidable and numerous forces of the Wei army, Zhuge Liang dared not underestimate the enemy. He ordered his soldiers to hold their ground in strategic positions. From a distance, the flags of both Wei and Shu were visible, and the sound of drums and horns echoed throughout the landscape. The two sides remained deadlocked for an extended period.
Strategic deployment
Yang Yi, a Shu officer, recommended dividing the army of 200,000 into two. This division would allow each group to rotate every three months, ensuring a fresh battalion was always on the frontlines. Zhuge Liang, recognizing the strategy as a sustainable method of waging war, adopted this plan, setting a strict rotation schedule of 100 days. Anyone violating this would be punished according to military law.
However, as the 100-day period ended, startling news arrived: Massive numbers of Wei reinforcements were approaching. The Shu army was taken aback. In this critical moment, several Shu generals suggested to Zhuge Liang to keep the replacement troops to fend off the enemies first before sending them home. Zhuge Liang firmly replied: “I base my command on trust. Orders were given in advance; how can I break that trust? Even in the face of great adversity, I will not hold them back.” He emphasized that the soldiers due for rotation had families eagerly waiting for their return and must not be kept.
The strength of integrity
Zhuge’s decision touched the hearts of all soldiers, both departing and staying. The departing soldiers voiced a desire to stay, while those remaining displayed unwavering commitment. But Zhuge remained resolute: those scheduled to return must do so. Nonetheless, the soldiers’ determination to fight was clear.
Zhuge’s strategic advance
The unwavering commitment of Zhuge Liang to his promises deeply inspired his army. Their morale surged, with a newfound will to engage the enemy. Recognizing this enthusiasm, Zhuge Liang advised: “If you’re all keen to join the fight, let’s set up our base just outside the city walls. As the exhausted Wei reinforcements arrive, we’ll strike immediately, using their fatigue against them.”
As the weary Wei reinforcements neared, hoping to camp and recover from their expedited march, they were met with an unexpected scenario. The unmistakable horns of the Shu army echoed in the air, signaling an imminent attack. With unmatched zeal, the Shu forces charged forward, their vigor evident in every maneuver. They so intensely overwhelmed the tired Wei soldiers that it seemed one Shu warrior was taking on 10 Wei adversaries. Unable to hold their ground, the Wei soldiers began to retreat, leading to a monumental victory for Shu. Even the renowned Sima Yi found no option but to retreat with the remnants of his forces.
Celebrating victory and virtue
Zhuge Liang ventured out of the city to reward and commend the victorious troops, particularly praising those soldiers who chose to forgo returning home and actively participated in the battle. The Shu camp buzzed with joy, celebrating their victory and soldiers’ unwavering dedication.
Indeed, as history has shown, while death is a certainty, trustworthiness determines one’s reputation. A nation that fails to cultivate trust risks losing the hearts of its citizens. Zhuge Liang, by steadfastly upholding his integrity, won unparalleled loyalty and respect from his people. His emphasis on virtue didn’t go unnoticed, and successive generations have held him in high esteem. As the soldiers of the Shu army often remarked, Prime Minister Zhuge Liang remained loyal to the nation, regarded his citizens with the affection of a parent, and his benevolence, wisdom, and courage earned him widespread admiration.
Translated by Joseph Wu
