Sima Guang (1019-1086), a prime minister of the Northern Song Dynasty, also known by his courtesy name Junshi, was a native of Sushui Township in Xia County (present-day Shanxi Xia County), Shaanxi Province. He was a renowned historian. When Sima Guang was born, his father, Sima Chi, served as the Guangshan County magistrate in Guangzhou. ...
Fan Zhongyan’s mother, Mrs. Xie, had a difficult life, experienced much hardship, and tasted many bitter experiences. As a result, she placed great hope in her son. Inspired by the dedication of Mencius’ mother, Mrs. Xie devoted herself to her son’s education. Fan Zhongyan disciplined himself like the famed Chinese philosopher Yan Hui and worked ...
A true embodiment of the saying “a hero doesn’t fear a humble beginning,” Di Qing’s journey from a deserter, marked by a punitive tattoo, to a celebrated general is a tale of grit and determination. His rise was significantly influenced by the open-minded Emperor Renzong of the Northern Song Dynasty and the encouraging chancellor Fan ...
Yang Yanzhao was the eldest son of the famous general Yang Ye of the early Northern Song Dynasty (960-1123). Yang Ye had been stationed at the Yanmen Pass for many years and was the enemy of the Khitanians who opposed the Song. They were so afraid of him that they called him “The Invincible Yang.” ...
A lasting legacy is defined by two things, it’s historic impact and the moral virtue it represents. Humans are forgetful in nature, and in a process of constant self discovery. Legacies are like memories that remind us of our perils, our potentials and of our highest ideals. Introduction to the lasting legacy of Fan Zhongyan ...
China, with its 5,000-year-old civilization, has always been recognized for the importance it places on familial education. Ancient Chinese believed in nurturing good character and morals in their children, such as the renowned minister Kou Zhun, following the principle that one can only “manage the family, govern the country, and pacify the world” by leading ...
In the annals of Chinese history, some names shine brighter than others. Su Dongpo, also known as Su Shi, is one such luminary — a renowned poet, essayist, painter, and statesman of the Song Dynasty. His influence was vast, comparable to the likes of Shakespeare in the West. Su’s writings give us a profound window ...
The Northern Song Dynasty’s eighth emperor, Song Huizong, was very talented and a man of great attainments in calligraphy, painting, and poetry. In particular, the so-called “Slender Gold” style of calligraphy created by Huizong is unique, and no one could rival him in this respect. This Taoist emperor also believed in fate and often asked ...
In today’s world, it can be easy to get caught up in the pursuit of fame and fortune. However, it is important to remember that those who can look beyond the present and anticipate the future will be better prepared for whatever life throws their way. This is exemplified in the story of Zhang Yu, ...
China has a civilization with a history extending back over 5,000 years, and has always been famous for its emphasis on “family education” and building the moral character of its children. The ancients taught their children to cultivate morals to enable them to “consolidate their family, govern their country, and make the world peaceful.” This valuable ...
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