Zhao Jianzi's mourning for Zhou She

Writer: Han Wangxi | Editor: Zhang Chanwen | From: Shenzhen Daily

Today, let’s hear a story about Zhao Jianzi, prime minister of the State of Jin during the late Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 B.C.). Governing a country involves utilizing capable individuals.

A man named Zhou She sought refuge with Zhao, standing at his door for three days and nights. Zhao asked why he sought shelter, and Zhou replied: “I have no particular skills; I’m simply wishing to serve as an upright and outspoken vassal. With brush dipped in ink and tablets in hand, I will follow you, recording every word and action, especially the mistakes.”

Throughout Chinese history, there existed a system of historians. Zhao understood Zhou’s intention to emulate ancient historians by recording his deeds. Instead of getting angry, he was delighted and immediately had Zhou start working. From then on, Zhao and Zhou were inseparable, with Zhou constantly recording and reminding Zhao of his words and actions.

Unfortunately, Zhou fell ill and passed away not long after, leaving Zhao deeply saddened. Once, during a gathering with officials at the Hongbo Terrace, amid a lively drinking session, Zhao suddenly burst into tears. The officials were surprised and hurriedly apologized to him. Zhao said, “You are not at fault.”

Perplexed, the officials asked why he was distressed if they hadn’t offended him. Zhao replied: “My sorrow is not for anything else but for my disciple Zhou She. I no longer have someone like him by my side. A multitude of compliant individuals cannot compare to the loyal words of Zhou She.”

He further explained that the unwavering words of an upright man were more beneficial than many agreeable voices. Zhao lamented that since Zhou’s passing, he hadn’t heard anyone criticize his mistakes, which saddened him deeply, often leading to tears when he remembered Zhou. Zhao deeply appreciated the loyalty and integrity of Zhou, hence deeply mourning his passing publicly, revealing himself as a person of deep emotions and sentiments.

(The author is a cultural scholar.)

(Translated by Shenzhen Daily)