In the past, officials were referred to as “parent officials” because education was not widespread then. Officials managed various affairs related to the people’s food, clothing, housing, and transportation. They sometimes had to educate the people and change erroneous concepts to achieve effective governance.
Liu Kuang: A legacy of virtue
During the period spanning the Southern and Northern Dynasties to the Sui Dynasty, Liu Kuang served as the magistrate of Pingxiang County. Liu used all of his salary to assist those living in poverty, earning the admiration and gratitude of the people. Inspired by his virtuous governance and teachings, the community would encourage one another, saying: “With an official like this, how can we commit wrongdoings?”
In disputes, Liu explained the principles of justice without reprimanding anyone. Those involved in lawsuits would take responsibility for their actions and resolve their differences, leaving no need for further punishment.
Liu served for seven years, and the atmosphere of education and morality became very harmonious. Under his governance, no prisoners remained in jail, and lawsuits disappeared entirely. The once-bustling prison became overgrown with grass, and wild birds filled the yard so abundantly they could be caught with nets. When Liu left office, officials, young and old, and ordinary citizens wept openly, escorting him for hundreds of miles to bid him farewell.
Liu Kuang’s leadership demonstrated how genuine care and moral guidance could transform a community. His ability to foster harmony, eliminate disputes, and cultivate a spirit of integrity left an enduring legacy, one that was cherished by all who had the privilege of living under his governance.
Liang Yan Guang: Enduring humiliation to help others
During the period from the Southern and Northern Dynasties to the Sui Dynasty, Liang Yan Guang served as the governor of Qizhou (581-584 AD). The people of Qizhou enjoyed simple customs, and Liang ruled with a gentle hand, allowing them to live peacefully. His governance was praised as among the best in the country.
Later, when Liang was transferred to Xiangzhou, he continued his benevolent rule. However, Xiangzhou’s population was diverse, with many individuals using crude customs and deceitful ways. Some mocked Liang’s ability to govern, composing songs to disparage him. Hearing these rumors, the emperor began to doubt Liang’s leadership capability. This led to his dismissal and a period of suspicion toward him. During his time in Xiangzhou, the residents insulted him with derogatory nicknames. Despite this, over a year later, when Liang was appointed as the governor of Zhao Prefecture, he requested to return to Xiangzhou to change the area’s harmful customs.
When the cunning people of Xiangzhou heard that Liang had requested to return to their region, they laughed at him. However, upon taking office, Liang revealed the hidden wrongdoings of the sly and deceitful individuals with an almost divine accuracy. No one could escape his insight, and the entire region was shaken. Despite this, Liang did not seek revenge on the people of Xiangzhou. Instead, he used his great virtue to educate them, transforming the region through his example.
After the fall of the Northern Qi, most scholars migrated inward, leaving only musicians and merchants in the area. As a result, Xiangzhou became plagued by treachery and deceit, with rumors and plots to overthrow officials running rampant.
Liang sought to rid the region of these evils by using his salary to hire scholars and establish schools in every village. He promoted education, focusing on the teachings of the sages. Liang personally examined the students, holding banquets for the diligent ones, where they enjoyed the honor of sitting alongside officials. In contrast, those who were lazy, contentious, or idle were made to sit on the floor with only straw mats as seats. This approach sparked a spirit of competition, pushing everyone to better themselves and embrace learning. As a result, the customs of Xiangzhou were transformed for the better.
Liang’s educational approach sparked significant change in Xiangzhou. Instead of punishing people like Jiao Tong — known for drinking and disrespecting the elderly — Liang allowed them to reform. For example, Jiao’s younger cousin complained about his behavior, but rather than resorting to discipline, Liang brought Jiao to the local school to study the stories of the sages. This experience profoundly impacted Jiao, making him ashamed of his past actions. He eventually reformed and became a better person.
The minor officials and ordinary people of Xiangzhou rejoiced under Liang’s leadership as the region witnessed the end of lawsuits — a testament to the lasting transformation he had instilled.
Wang Shu: Caring for the people and saving countless lives
Wang Shu was a dedicated and compassionate official during the Ming Dynasty, mainly known for his swift and selfless response to disasters. As the governor of Yangzhou, he acted quickly when floods ravaged various areas, rushing to the disaster zones to assess the damage. Eager to save lives, he didn’t wait for approval from his superiors but instead took immediate action, distributing grain to alleviate famine and implementing loans to support the people. His efforts saved over 2 million lives.
Later appointed as the Minister of Personnel, Wang recommended many virtuous officials to the court, contributing to the governance of the empire. He lived to the age of 93, passing peacefully, and his five sons and thirteen grandsons all became virtuous and prominent figures. Wang’s life was a testament to the power of benevolence and virtue, reflected not only in his success but in the prosperity and morality of his descendants.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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