Li Ji (594-669) was a remarkable general who played a significant role in establishing the Tang Dynasty. Alongside Li Jing, who was celebrated as the “God of War” for his brilliant battlefield strategies, Li Ji was recognized as one of the most outstanding military leaders of his time and honored among the 24 heroes of the Lingyan Pavilion. He started his military career under Emperor Taizong, helping to secure and expand the Tang Empire’s territories. He served under three Tang emperors: Gaozu, Taizong, and Gaozong, earning him the title “Veteran of Three Reigns.” Despite his achievements, he remained humble and disciplined, earning deep respect and becoming known as the “Great Wall of the Nation.”
Remaining loyal to a former leader
Li Ji began his military career in the Wagang Army, initially fighting under Zhai Rang. After Zhai’s death, he joined Li Mi’s forces. When Li Mi surrendered to the Tang, Li Ji chose to follow, showing his unwavering loyalty to his former leader. This act earned him the praise of Emperor Gaozu, who called him a “pure minister.” Later, when Li Mi rebelled and was executed, Li Ji requested permission to bury Li Mi’s remains. Moved by his loyalty, Emperor Gaozu allowed him to bring Li Mi’s body back to his territory. Li Ji wore mourning clothes, ordered his troops to observe a period of mourning, and built a grand tomb for Li Mi, earning admiration throughout the court.
A farewell to a sworn brother
After being forced to surrender to Dou Jiande, who had taken his father hostage, Li Ji plotted to assassinate Dou and return to the Tang but narrowly escaped with his life. Later, he joined Li Shimin (the future Emperor Taizong) in various military campaigns. During one such campaign against Wang Shichong, Li Ji faced a dilemma when his sworn brother, Shan Xiongxin, who had joined Wang’s forces, was captured and sentenced to death.
Li Ji pleaded with Li Shimin to spare Shan’s life, even offering his wealth and status in exchange, but his request was denied. Before the execution, Li Ji met with Shan and, with tears in his eyes, said: “We swore to live and die together, but my duty to the state comes first. If I were to die, who would care for your family?” In a poignant gesture, he cut a piece of flesh from his thigh, asking Shan to eat it so it would be with him in the grave, symbolizing their unbroken bond. Shan accepted the gesture, and the two men bid a tearful farewell.
Securing the borders and defeating invaders
In 627, after Li Shimin became emperor, Li Ji was appointed governor of Bingzhou, where he defended the northern territories alongside Li Jing, successfully defeating the Eastern Turks. He was later named Minister of War, but before assuming the position, he was sent to suppress a rebellion by the Xue Yantuo tribe in the north. Li Ji’s leadership led to a significant victory, capturing over 50,000 people.
Known for sharing the spoils of war with his soldiers, Li Ji earned their loyalty and respect. For the next 16 years, he safeguarded the Tang Dynasty’s northern borders, keeping them peaceful and secure. Emperor Taizong praised his contributions, saying they surpassed those of the Great Wall. He was a master strategist, and his military campaigns were always well-planned and executed with precision. After Emperor Taizong’s death in 649, Li Ji continued to serve under Emperor Gaozong, eventually becoming one of his most trusted advisors.
A general with a heart
Li Ji’s dedication extended beyond the battlefield. Despite his high rank, he showed deep affection for his family. When his older sister fell seriously ill, he personally cooked porridge for her, despite his position as a high-ranking minister. When the fire singed his beard, his sister advised him not to do such menial tasks. He replied: “You are old, and my beard is already white. How many more chances will I have to make porridge for you?” This simple act demonstrated his humble nature and love for his family.
Honored in death for his lifetime of service
Li Ji’s tireless military campaigns eventually took a toll on his health, and he passed away in December 669 at the age of 76. To honor him, Emperor Gaozong suspended court for seven days and personally conducted his funeral, posthumously naming him “Grand Commandant.” He was buried alongside Emperor Taizong in the Zhaoling Mausoleum, a lasting tribute to his extraordinary loyalty and service to the Tang Dynasty.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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