Emperor Tang Taizong, renowned for establishing one of the most formidable empires in history, owes much of his success to his exceptional talent in identifying and utilizing gifted individuals. A prominent example of his ability to discern talent was in the rise of Ma Zhou, who evolved from a humble background to become the Prime Minister of the Tang Dynasty, illustrating Taizong’s keen judgment.
Ma Zhou: A journey from obscurity to power
In the Zhenguan era, Ma Zhou emerged as a distinguished official. Born into poverty and orphaned early, he did not let his difficult start in life define him. Instead, he immersed himself in the study of Confucian texts, gaining profound understanding and insight. Despite mockery from his fellow villagers for not earning money, Ma Zhou stayed focused on his intellectual pursuits. Eventually, he moved to Chang’an, the capital, where he secured a job in the household of Chang He, the head of the imperial guard. Recognizing Ma Zhou’s writing skills, Chang He employed him for document work.
In 629, when Tang Taizong called for both civil and military officials to submit reports analyzing the governance of the country and offering suggestions for its future, Ma Zhou seized this opportunity. He strongly believed that in times of peace, the most crucial task for the emperor was to govern the country through culture and virtue, and to foster a societal culture steeped in honesty, loyalty, and righteousness. With this conviction, Ma Zhou prepared a detailed proposal brimming with numerous suggestions aligned with these principles. Though Chang He couldn’t fully grasp it, he sensed its significance and submitted it to the Emperor.
Upon reviewing Ma Zhou’s submission, Tang Taizong was astounded by its depth and immediately sought out its author. Ma Zhou’s talents, which had remained hidden in a menial position, were thus brought to light by the Emperor’s discerning eye.
Tang Taizong’s eye for talent
Tang Taizong embodied the Chinese virtue of valuing and seeking talent. His approach to leadership was marked by a frugal yet exceptionally generous attitude toward recognizing and nurturing capable individuals. He believed in appointing the right people, emphasizing quality over quantity in his administration.
Impressed by Ma Zhou, Tang Taizong quickly elevated him to a position in the Prime Minister’s office. Ma Zhou’s appointment, despite his lack of formal qualifications, demonstrated the Emperor’s willingness to reward true talent.
After three years, Ma Zhou was promoted as an inspector, taking on significant responsibilities. His approach was unique as he did not hesitate to critique the Emperor, addressing policy weaknesses and proposing solutions. Tang Taizong valued Ma Zhou’s candor, leading to further promotions.
Advising in times of prosperity
Ma Zhou continued to provide honest advice even during the prosperous Zhenguan era. He once again submitted a report to Tang Taizong, asking him: “Why is it that when the Tang Dynasty was first established, the people did not have enough to eat and the price of food was very high, but the people did not have any complaints; but now that there are good harvests year after year and the price of goods is cheap and the people are well-fed, they have a lot of complaints, thinking that His Majesty does not care about them?
“This is because we have built a lot of projects that have nothing to do with people’s livelihood and collected a lot of taxes. The rise and fall of a nation do not depend on the amount of savings, but on the suffering and happiness of the people. If the people are overburdened and the court keeps on building such constructions, there will be unpredictable troubles.”
His insights were highly regarded by Tang Taizong, who saw them as essential for the nation’s well-being.
Tang Taizong greatly appreciated Ma Zhou’s guidance, expressing how he missed his counsel during brief absences. Their partnership exemplified effective leadership and mutual respect. Tragically, Ma Zhou succumbed to diabetes and exhaustion at 48, but his legacy of wisdom and the importance of honest advisory in governance endures.
Translated by Audrey Wang
