Zhao Kuangyin, also known as Emperor Taizu of the Song Dynasty, was a unique and admirable emperor in Chinese history. He is remembered for his acts of kindness and wisdom that shaped his legacy, such as his strategic and humane decisions to peacefully reduce military power, protect vulnerable individuals, and implement fair taxation policies. The following stories, drawn from historical accounts and the History of Song, illustrate this remarkable ruler’s charisma and compassionate nature.
The tale of ‘Yinzi Alley’
In the year 957, during the Later Zhou Dynasty, the emperor Chai Rong led a fierce attack on the Southern Tang’s city of Chuzhou. The city’s commander, Zhang Yanqing, valiantly resisted but eventually succumbed, leading his remaining soldiers in street battles until the last one perished. To avenge this resistance, Chai Rong ordered the massacre of everyone in Chuzhou, regardless of age or gender.
Zhao Kuangyin, then a general of the Later Zhou, witnessed a heartbreaking sight during the siege — an infant trying to feed from his deceased mother’s breast. Moved by compassion, he urged the emperor to halt the slaughter. He rescued the infant, ensuring he was cared for. The residents of that alley were spared, and it later became known as “Yinzi Alley” (因子巷), which means “Alley of the Child,” named in memory of the saved infant. This act stood out as a beacon of humanity in a brutal era marked by constant warfare.
A snowy night visit to Zhao Pu
Emperor Taizu was known for his unannounced visits to his ministers’ homes. Zhao Pu, his trusted advisor, was always on guard, ready to receive the emperor at any moment. One snowy evening, believing the emperor wouldn’t venture out in the storm, Zhao Pu relaxed — only to be surprised by a knock at the door. To his amazement, there stood Emperor Taizu, snow-covered, but smiling.
The emperor had also invited his younger brother, Zhao Guangyi, and the three of them gathered by the fireplace, sharing drinks and roasted meat. During their conversation, Taizu sought Zhao Pu’s counsel on military strategy. Zhao Pu suggested that consolidating the southern territories before turning to the northern Han would secure the empire’s future. Impressed by Zhao Pu’s wisdom, Taizu revealed that he had come precisely to hear his thoughts, showing his respect for capable advisors.
Confronting corruption with integrity
Emperor Taizu upheld strict standards of fairness, even in the face of corruption. When Song Bai, an official in charge of the imperial examination, attempted to manipulate the results for personal gain, Zhao Kuangyin reprimanded him sternly. The emperor demanded that the examination results reflect merit rather than favoritism. This act reinforced his commitment to justice and set a clear standard for all officials under his rule.
A gesture of sincerity
The ruler of the Southern Han, Liu Chang, was infamous for using poison to eliminate his ministers. After surrendering to the Song Dynasty, he found himself at a banquet with Zhao Kuangyin. When the emperor offered him a cup of wine, Liu Chang hesitated, fearing it might be poisoned. Overcome with guilt and fear, Liu Chang tearfully confessed: “I know I am guilty of many sins and deserve no mercy. If you do not punish me with death, I would be grateful to live as a commoner in a peaceful land. But I dare not drink this cup.”
Understanding Liu Chang’s fear, Zhao Kuangyinlaughed heartily, took the cup, drank from it, and then refilled it for Liu Chang, reassuring him of his sincerity. This gesture exemplified the emperor’s magnanimity and trustworthiness, showing his willingness to treat even former enemies with compassion and grace.
Justice for all
In a notable case of justice, Zhao Kuangyin refused to pardon a man named Fan Yichao, who had killed an entire family out of personal vengeance. Despite the leniency laws of the time, the emperor insisted on holding him accountable, saying: “How could anyone who massacres a whole family go unpunished?” This decision demonstrated that while Zhao Kuangyin was merciful, his mercy had its limits when it came to heinous acts.
Three promises for the future
Zhao Kuangyin left a legacy in the form of a stone tablet inscribed with three promises to his descendants: to treat the children of the former ruling family with mercy, to avoid executing scholars and officials who voiced their opinions, and to refrain from increasing taxes on farmland. These principles guided the Song Dynasty, emphasizing a government that valued humaneness and intellectual freedom, setting the foundation for an era of cultural and intellectual prosperity.
The promises also established the Song Dynasty as a haven for scholars, where intellectuals like Su Shi could critique the government without fear of severe punishment. It became a “paradise for scholars,” where literature and learning flourished, highlighting Zhao Kuangyin’s lasting influence on Chinese culture.
A legacy of compassion and wisdom
Emperor Taizu of Song was a rare blend of military genius and benevolent ruler. His actions ended decades of civil strife and laid the groundwork for a dynasty that would last for over three centuries. His emphasis on kindness, justice, and humility left an indelible mark on Chinese history, earning him the admiration of future generations. Leaders like Zhu Yuanzhang praised Zhao Kuangyin’s unparalleled achievements, recognizing him as a true unifier of the nation.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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