Throughout history, many powerful ministers and military leaders have met tragic ends because their influence made them targets of envy, suspicion, or fear. However, General Guo Ziyi of the Tang Dynasty stands as a unique figure in Chinese history, serving under four emperors — Xuanzong, Suzong, Daizong, and Dezong — and living to age 85.
When the last emperor he served ascended the throne, he honored Guo Ziyi with the title “Shangfu,” which can be translated as “Exalted Father” or “Esteemed Father.” This rare and highly respected title signified that the emperor regarded Guo Ziyi as a fatherly figure, showing the deep trust and reverence the emperor had for him. As Guo lay on his deathbed, the emperor sent his son, Prince Li Yi, to personally visit him.
Guo Ziyi’s life was marked by unparalleled favor from the imperial court, something countless ministers and generals could only dream of achieving. So how did Guo Ziyi manage to gain such high regard without arousing suspicion or resentment, ultimately dying peacefully of old age? The key lay in his cautious nature, mastery of moderation, and an exceptionally tolerant and generous mindset—a rare accomplishment.
Navigating the dangers of court jealousy
In December A.D. 767, during the second year of Emperor Daizong’s reign, the grave of Guo Ziyi’s father was desecrated, but the perpetrators were never caught. Many suspected that the eunuch Yu Chao’en, who was jealous of Guo, had orchestrated the act. Yu Chao’en had a history of slandering Guo and obstructing his appointments. Guo Ziyi was well aware of the likely cause of this incident. When he met the emperor, Guo wept and said: “I have long been in charge of military affairs, yet I failed to prevent such banditry. Soldiers have sometimes destroyed others’ graves, too. This is my failure, a sign of divine retribution, not human malice.”
The court ministers, who had been worried that Guo might cause an uproar, were deeply impressed by his response. Guo Ziyi understood that the stability of the state was far more important than his personal grievances. Undistorted by his high status and power, his mindsetset a moral example rarely seen in history.
Building close relationships while remaining cautious
When hosting court officials at home, Guo Ziyi’s concubines were typically present, symbolizing the closeness he felt with his guests. This gesture wasn’t about flaunting his wealth, but rather about treating his guests like family, thereby fostering strong bonds with the officials. However, when the court official Lu Qi visited, Guo quickly sent his concubines away and received Lu Qi with a serious demeanor.
After Lu Qi left, Guo’s family asked why he had acted so differently. Guo explained: “Lu Qi is extremely ugly and very sensitive about it. He would have borne a grudge if my concubines had seen him and laughed. Although he is a minor official now, our family could be in great danger if he were to gain power in the future. My actions were meant to spare his feelings and protect our family.” Indeed, when Lu Qi later became a prime minister and took revenge on many, he spared Guo Ziyi’s family, confirming Guo’s foresight.
Balancing power and humility
Guo Ziyi’s ability to tolerate and understand people extended even to the emperor. Once, he recommended a candidate for a local government position, but the emperor disapproved. Guo’s subordinates were outraged, feeling that the emperor was disrespecting Guo, who was a key figure in the dynasty’s revival. They complained: “Other governors have their appointments approved, but the emperor refuses yours. This is an insult!”
Guo Ziyi laughed and explained: “You don’t understand. The emperor fears those governors because they command armies and might rebel if their requests are denied. But he does not fear me because he sees me as a trusted confidant. This signifies that I am truly in the emperor’s favor.” His subordinates were deeply convinced by his reasoning.
A legacy of loyalty and moderation
On June 10, 781, Guo Ziyi passed away at the age of 85. Emperor Dezong mourned deeply, suspending court activities for five days and issuing a proclamation praising and commemorating him. The emperor and his ministers visited Guo’s residence to pay their respects, and the emperor himself wept at the Anfu Gate as he bid farewell. In both life and death, Guo Ziyi was honored without end.
In the Comprehensive Mirror to Aid in Government, Sima Guang praised Guo Ziyi, saying: “His achievements were overwhelming, but the emperor never doubted him. He held the highest position among subjects, but his peers did not envy him. He lived a luxurious life, but people did not criticize him.” This assessment is indeed fitting.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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