blindness, chu state, confucius, faith, song state

A Black Cow Gives Birth to a White Calf: A Test of Faith

In ancient China in the state of Song, there lived a family who tried to maintain faith in themselves and others and followed the principles of kindness and justice for many generations. They always put these principles into practice in their daily lives. One day, a black cow they owned gave birth to a white ...

Tatiana Denning

A white calf in a meadow.

The Outstanding King Chu Zhuangwang

Chu Zhuangwang ascended the throne in 613 B.C. During the first three years of his reign, he did nothing other than eat, drink, and have fun. He forbade his courtiers from giving him any advice regarding it. He said: “Whoever dares to give me advice shall be killed.” One courtier named Wu Ju still dared ...

Helen London

The Chu kingdom.

A Consort’s Wisdom Saved the King and His Kingdom (Part 2)

King Zhuang was very fond of the company of his minister Yu Qiuzi and he would spend endless days and nights in discussions with him. One day, after a court session, Fan Ji came to see King Zhuang. She asked Zhuang: “What is so important that made you forget to eat and sleep?” Zhuang replied ...

Emma Lu

King Zhuang of Chu.

A Consort’s Wisdom Saved the King and His Kingdom (Part 1)

King Zhuang of the Chu State (reign 613-591 B.C.) was the most accomplished monarch among the five rulers during the Spring and Autumn period in ancient China. Lady Fan Ji was his principal consort. In the first three years of his reign, Zhuang indulged himself in hunting while neglecting his official duties. Fan Ji knew ...

Emma Lu

King Zhuang.