After founding the Ming Dynasty in Nanjing, Zhu Yuanzhang appointed his son, Zhu Biao, as Crown Prince. Zhu Biao, just 13 at the time, was placed under the mentorship of Song Lian, a scholar known for his upright character and deep knowledge of Confucianism.
Zhu Biao’s gentle and compassionate nature flourished under strict Confucian teachings, molding him into a man of refined morals. However, this deeply worried his father, who believed an ideal crown prince needed both compassion and strength, as well as a balance of intellect and martial prowess. The emperor often sighed over their differences, uneasy about his son’s softer approach to governance.
Diverging visions of leadership
As the father and son grew older, their differences in governance philosophy became more evident. Zhu Yuanzhang ruled with an iron fist, while Zhu Biao advocated for kindness and leniency. The emperor frequently resorted to executing officials. However, Zhu Biao firmly opposed these actions, arguing that “a nation is built upon compassion, with law as a tool, not through harsh punishment.” Frustrated, Zhu Yuanzhang retorted: “Do you think I need you to teach me how to rule?”
In the 13th year of his reign, Zhu Yuanzhang ordered the execution of Song Lian, Zhu Biao’s mentor, due to his grandson’s alleged involvement in a conspiracy. Heartbroken, Zhu Biao knelt and pleaded for his teacher’s life, weeping uncontrollably. Angered, Zhu Yuanzhang rebuked him, saying: “It’s not your place to make such decisions until you become emperor yourself!” Distraught, Zhu Biao attempted suicide by throwing himself into a river but was saved by a eunuch. With his wife, Empress Ma, also pleading for mercy, Zhu Yuanzhang eventually spared Song Lian’s life, exiling him instead. Though he relented, he berated his son: “Foolish child! What did my decision to execute him have to do with you?”
Empress Ma’s courageous influence
Empress Ma played a pivotal role in Zhu Yuanzhang’s rise to power. Her resilience during times of hardship and her unwavering loyalty were essential to his success. Zhu Yuanzhang often praised her by comparing her to Empress Changsun, a legendary figure in Chinese history renowned for her wisdom and support of her husband, Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty. Empress Changsun is remembered for her guidance and stabilizing influence, traits Zhu Yuanzhang deeply valued in Empress Ma, referring to her as “a good wife, like a wise minister to the nation.”
In one close encounter, Zhu Yuanzhang was severely injured during a battle with the warlord Chen Youliang. He narrowly escaped thanks to Empress Ma, who supported him as they fled on horseback. This courageous act not only saved his life but cemented her place in his heart as an irreplaceable partner.
After Empress Ma passed away, Zhu Yuanzhang’s longing for her became a constant presence. Zhu Biao, attuned to his father’s grief, secretly painted an image of that harrowing escape. He kept it close, prepared to use it as a reminder in times of tension.
A last attempt at persuading the emperor
The harsh purging of officials marked Zhu Yuanzhang’s rule, as he ordered mass executions to eliminate potential threats. Disturbed by the brutality, Zhu Biao once more advised his father, cautioning: “Father, too many executions could disrupt the nation’s harmony.” Without a word, the emperor instructed Zhu Biao to fetch a thorny branch the next day. When Zhu Biao hesitated, Zhu Yuanzhang plucked out the thorns himself, saying: “I’ve removed the thorns for you. Now it’s easier, isn’t it? Just as I remove threats to secure the nation for you.” Yet, Zhu Biao remained unmoved, responding: “Father, in the times of Yao and Shun, simplicity prevailed naturally. I only hope that you may keep things as they are.”
This response infuriated the emperor, who threw a porcelain item at his son, chasing him in a rage. Aware that many crown princes had met their ends due to such fury, Zhu Biao instinctively pulled out the cherished painting and spread it on the ground. The sight of the scene — the empress shielding him in their perilous escape — brought Zhu Yuanzhang to tears, halting his pursuit.
Zhu Biao’s enduring legacy
Starting in the tenth year of Zhu Yuanzhang’s reign, Zhu Biao was given the responsibility to review and make initial decisions on most governmental affairs before they reached the emperor. This served as valuable preparation for his future role as ruler, allowing him to develop his skills in governance under his father’s guidance. Despite their political differences, Zhu Yuanzhang never questioned Zhu Biao’s position as crown prince. Tragically, Zhu Biao passed away at 36 before he could ascend to the throne, leaving behind a legacy marked by his compassionate vision for the Ming Dynasty.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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