Han Wangxi

DURING the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 B.C.), turmoil brewed within the State of Jin, leading to the exile of Duke Xian’s son, Chong’er.

One day, Chong’er sought refuge in the State of Chu, where King Cheng of Chu warmly welcomed him with a grand feast. Amid the banquet, after drinking several cups of wine, the king smiled and asked Chong’er, “When you return to the State of Jin and succeed to the throne, how do you plan to repay me?”

Taken aback, Chong’er hastily replied, “You lack nothing in terms of treasures and I am uncertain how to repay your kindness.”

A stern expression crossed the king’s face as he retorted, “Are you suggesting no repayment?” Pondering for a moment, Chong’er responded: “There is only one way then. If in the future, the armies of Jin and Chu confront each other on the battlefield, I will command the Jin troops to retreat by 45 kilometers to express my gratitude. If, despite that, the Chu army still insists on hostility, then I shall have no choice but to engage in conflict with you.”

Upon hearing this, the king remained silent, but his minister, Ziyu, couldn’t stay quiet. He turned to the king and said: “Your Majesty, despite your generous reception of the prince Chong’er, his words were disrespectful. He should be punished.”

Shaking his head, the king said: “It was I who demanded repayment first, thus I cannot blame him for his words. Moreover, after wandering outside for many years, yet attracting so many wise ministers to follow him, such a person is protected by the heavens and cannot be executed.”

After residing in the State of Chu for several months, a messenger arrived from the State of Qin, seeking an audience with Chong’er. The King of Qin expressed willingness to send troops to escort him back to the State of Jin. Consequently, the king of Chu dispatched soldiers to escort Chong’er and his entourage to the State of Qin.

With the assistance of Qin, Chong’er returned to Jin and ascended to the throne as Duke Wen of Jin. Three years later, as the power of Jin and Chu grew, both sought to win over the State of Song. Inevitably, conflicts arose. Remembering the relationship with Duke Wen of Jin, the King Cheng of Chu initially intended to avoid war. However, his minister Ziyu insisted on battling against Jin. Before the two armies faced off, Duke Wen ordered the Jin troops to retreat by 45 kilometers, honoring his promise once made to the King of Chu.

(The author is a cultural scholar.)

(Translated by Shenzhen Daily)