The Decline of Lu State: From Duke Ai to Duke Qing in Ancient China

Duke of Zhou, Dan, was the younger brother of King Wu of Zhou. During the reign of King Wen, Dan was known for his filial piety, sincerity, and exceptional virtues, distinguishing him from other sons. When King Wu ascended the throne, Dan served as a key advisor and a strong supporter, holding significant influence.

In the ninth year of King Wu’s reign, Dan led military campaigns to the east, reaching Mengjin, where he aided King Wu. In the eleventh year, they launched an attack on King Zhou of the Shang dynasty, culminating in the Battle of Muye. Dan assisted King Wu in composing the “Oath of Muye,” and after their victory over the Shang, they entered the royal palace. Once King Zhou was slain, Duke Dan held the Great Axe, with the Duke of Shao holding the smaller one, both flanking King Wu as they performed rituals to report King Zhou’s crimes to heaven and the people of Shang.

Duke Dan also freed Ji Zi from captivity and appointed the son of King Zhou, Wu Geng, as ruler of Lu, ensuring the continuation of the Shang dynasty’s rites. He distributed land to loyal ministers and relatives. The Duke of Zhou was assigned to the land of Shao Hao’s ancestral territory, where he became the ruler of Lu. However, he declined this title and chose to remain by King Wu’s side.

Two years after King Wu’s conquest of Shang, the country was still unstable. When King Wu fell ill and the ministers feared for the kingdom, Taigong and Shao Gong performed divinations. The Duke of Zhou said, “The legacy of my ancestors cannot be disturbed by personal grief.” He offered himself as a pledge, praying in front of three altars, with jade and ceremonial staffs in hand, to declare to the spirits of his ancestors. The divination indicated success, and the Duke of Zhou expressed confidence in his ability to assist the royal family.

When King Wu passed away, the young King Cheng succeeded him. The Duke of Zhou, fearing rebellion upon the news of King Wu’s death, assumed regency to stabilize the state. Some people, including Guan Shu and Cai Shu, spread rumors about the Duke’s intentions, claiming he would harm the young king. The Duke of Zhou responded by explaining to Taigong and Shao Gong that he had assumed control to prevent rebellion and maintain stability for the kingdom.

Eventually, Guan Shu, Cai Shu, and Wu Geng led a rebellion with the Eastern barbarians. The Duke of Zhou, under King Cheng’s command, led a campaign against them, resulting in their defeat. The Duke executed Guan Shu, killed Wu Geng, and exiled Cai Shu. He restored order and ensured the continuation of the Shang dynasty’s ancestral rites. After two years, the Eastern barbarians were subdued, and the vassal states recognized the authority of the Zhou.

The Blessings of Heaven and the Deeds of Duke of Zhou

Heaven bestowed its blessings, and Uncle Tang harvested crops. Though born of different mothers, they were both remarkably talented. He offered these crops to King Cheng, who instructed Uncle Tang to present them to the Duke of Zhou in the eastern lands, composing the “Offerings of Grain” (《馈禾》). In turn, the Duke of Zhou received the grain, expressed his gratitude for the emperor’s decree, and composed the “Gracious Grain” (《嘉禾》). As the eastern lands prospered, the Duke of Zhou returned to report to King Cheng and composed a poem titled “The Owl” (《鸱鸮》), which he sent to the king, though King Cheng did not dare reprimand him.

In the seventh year of King Cheng’s reign, in the second month (乙未), the king personally left Zhou and journeyed to Feng, instructing the Grand Preceptor, Shao Gong, to precede him to the land of Lu. By the third month, the Duke of Zhou had made his way to the newly established capital, Chengzhou, and consulted divination. The results were auspicious, and he proceeded to settle there.

As King Cheng grew older, he became capable of governing. The Duke of Zhou returned the rule to King Cheng, and the king began to hold court. The Duke of Zhou, once the regent, now resumed his position as a minister, humbly serving the king as he faced south, a sign of deference to the monarch.

In the beginning, when King Cheng was still a child and ill, the Duke of Zhou performed rituals to the gods at the river, praying for the king’s recovery. The Duke of Zhou secretly wrote his divination predictions and kept them in the palace. When the king’s health improved, and he began to take charge, some people slandered the Duke of Zhou, and he fled to the state of Chu. Upon discovering the Duke’s written prayers, King Cheng was moved to tears and brought him back.

Upon his return, the Duke of Zhou, fearing that King Cheng might become negligent or indulgent as he matured, composed the works “Many Scholars” (《多士》) and “Do Not Drift” (《毋逸》). “Do Not Drift” urged caution, saying: “As parents, we must endure and manage with care to ensure the longevity of our family. If children grow arrogant and extravagant, they will ruin their homes. Be careful not to fall into neglect. In the past, the Shang kings, from Zhong Zong to Gao Zong, all ensured their rule through reverence for heaven and a steady government. They ruled for decades. Only when rulers became indulgent did the state decline.”

The “Many Scholars” echoed this sentiment, stressing that from Emperor Tang to Emperor Yi, those who honored the teachings of the wise and the heavens maintained prosperous reigns. However, King Zhou of Shang fell into decadence, ultimately bringing his downfall.

At Feng, King Cheng had stabilized the realm, but the governmental system was still disorganized. Therefore, the Duke of Zhou composed the “Zhou Officials” (《周官》), outlining the duties of officials and establishing a system for governance. He also composed the “Establishment of Governance” (《立政》) to ease the burden on the common people, which brought satisfaction and stability.

The Death and Legacy of Duke of Zhou

While at Feng, Duke Zhou fell ill and realized his end was near. He said, “You must bury me in Chengzhou, to show that I never dared to leave King Cheng.” After Duke Zhou passed away, King Cheng also made sure he was buried beside King Wen, to emphasize that as a young ruler, he would never betray Duke Zhou.

After Duke Zhou’s death, a violent storm struck, with strong winds and thunder. Crops were flattened, and great trees were uprooted. The state of Zhou was in great fear. King Cheng, along with the nobles, performed a ritual and opened the golden scrolls. Inside, King Cheng found the writings of Duke Zhou, explaining his actions as regent for King Wu. The historian confirmed the truth, stating, “This was indeed Duke Zhou’s command; he told me never to speak of it.”

King Cheng, in tears, held the scroll and declared, “From now on, no one should ever make decisions without proper divination. Duke Zhou worked tirelessly for the royal family, and I, as a young man, could not fully understand his wisdom. Now, the heavens show their power to demonstrate Duke Zhou’s virtue, and it is only fitting that we honor him.”

As King Cheng went out to perform a ritual, the wind reversed, and crops began to rise. The people were ordered to rebuild the land where the great trees had fallen. The next year, the harvest was abundant. King Cheng ordered the state of Lu to perform a ritual for King Wen, to honor Duke Zhou’s contributions.

After Duke Zhou’s death, his son, Bo Qin, had already been granted land and title as the Duke of Lu. After three years, Bo Qin finally began to govern, explaining the delay as a necessity to reform customs and rites, ensuring a respectful mourning period.

Tai Gong was also granted land in Qi, but after five months, he began his governance, citing the need to adapt to local customs. Duke Zhou, upon hearing that Bo Qin had delayed his governance, sighed, saying, “Alas, future generations of Lu will eventually submit to Qi! Governance must be simple and easy for the people to understand.”

After Bo Qin took over the throne, there were revolts by Guan and Cai, and the Eastern tribes, including the Huaiyi and Xu Rong, rose against him. Bo Qin led an army to quell the rebellion, composing the “Oath of the Battle at Xi” (《肸誓》), urging his soldiers to be diligent, not harm civilians, and uphold justice. After a decisive victory, Bo Qin restored order in Lu.

After Duke Zhou’s death, his legacy was carried on by his descendants, including his son Bo Qin, and later his grandsons. Each ruler of Lu continued to uphold the values and teachings of Duke Zhou. After Bo Qin’s passing, his son Kao Gong ruled for four years, followed by his younger son, Xi, who was known as Duke Yang. Duke Yang ruled for six years and was succeeded by his son, Duke You.

However, a power struggle erupted when Duke You was murdered by his own brother, who then took the throne as Duke Wei. Duke Wei ruled for fifty years, followed by Duke Li. After Duke Li’s death, his brother, Duke Xian, succeeded him.

During the reign of King Li of Zhou, Duke Zhen, the ruler of Lu, had to flee to Zhi to join forces with others in governance. King Xuan of Zhou ascended to the throne 29 years later.

On the 30th year of King Xuan’s reign, Duke Zhen passed away, and his brother, Ao, succeeded him as Duke Wu. In the ninth year of Duke Wu’s reign, he, along with his sons, visited King Xuan. King Xuan, fond of Duke Wu’s youngest son, Xi, wished to make him the heir of Lu. However, the minister Fan Zhongshan warned King Xuan, saying, “It is against the natural order to make the younger son the heir. Such an action would invite chaos and disobedience. The people would lose respect for the king’s orders.”

Despite the warning, King Xuan went ahead and declared Xi as the heir. Later that year, Duke Wu passed away, and Xi ascended the throne as Duke Yi.

The Reign and Struggles of Duke Yi and His Successors

During the reign of Duke Yi, in the ninth year of his rule, his brother’s son, Bo Yu, conspired with the people of Lu to assassinate Duke Yi and placed Bo Yu on the throne. Bo Yu reigned for eleven years, during which King Xuan of Zhou attacked Lu, killed Bo Yu, and installed the rightful heir, Duke Cheng, as the new ruler of Lu. The historian Fan Mu Zhong praised Duke Cheng, saying that he was devoted to his elders, followed tradition, and governed with wisdom. King Xuan approved and recognized that Duke Cheng was capable of leading the people.

In the 25th year of Duke Cheng’s reign, the vassal states rebelled against Zhou, and the Quan Rong tribe killed King You of Zhou. This marked the beginning of Qin’s rise as a powerful state.

In the 27th year, Duke Cheng passed away, and his son, Duke Hui, succeeded him. Duke Hui ruled for 30 years and faced significant political instability, as the people of Jin assassinated their ruler, Duke Zhao. Later, the same fate befell Duke Xiao of Jin.

Duke Hui died in the 46th year of his reign, and his son, Duke Yin, took over. Duke Yin, who had originally been a minor, had been under the regency of his father’s cousin, Duke Hui, who had ruled in his stead.

In the early years of Duke Yin’s reign, there were political struggles, with Duke Yin’s younger cousin, Bo Xi, conspiring to assassinate Duke Yin. Bo Xi tried to convince Duke Yin to kill his son, Duke Yun, but Duke Yin refused, citing the will of his late father. However, Bo Xi betrayed him, causing Duke Yin to be killed and replaced by Duke Yun, marking the beginning of Duke Huan’s rule.

Duke Huan’s reign was marked by external challenges, including interactions with the state of Zheng. In his first year, Duke Huan exchanged a jade disc with King Xuan of Zhou for land in the state of Xu. In his second year, he used tribute from the state of Song to enhance the grandeur of his palace. Critics at the time questioned his actions, claiming he was compromising his integrity.

In his sixth year, Duke Huan’s wife gave birth to a son, who was named Tong, meaning “same” because he and Duke Huan were born on the same day. As Tong grew, he became the heir apparent to the throne.

In the 16th year of Duke Huan’s reign, he launched a military campaign against Zheng, which resulted in the fall of Duke Li of Zheng. However, in the 18th year of his reign, Duke Huan made a fateful decision to travel to Qi, angering his wife and prompting a series of events that led to his tragic death.

In the summer of the 18th year, Duke Huan visited Qi and was entertained by the ruler of Qi, Duke Xiang. However, Duke Huan became angry at his wife, and she, in turn, informed the ruler of Qi. In a drunken stupor, Duke Huan was killed by his servant, Peng Sheng, who was later executed by the people of Qi. After his death, Duke Huan’s son, Tong, ascended the throne as Duke Zhuang.

The Struggles for Power in the State of Lu: The Reign of Duke Zhuang and His Succession

In the fifth year of Duke Zhuang’s reign, during the winter, he launched a military campaign against the state of Wei, which was ruled by Duke Hui.

In the eighth year, Prince Jiu of Qi sought refuge in Lu. The following year, Lu attempted to return Prince Jiu to Qi, but after the actions of Duke Huan of Lu, who launched an attack on Lu, the situation escalated. Lu was forced to kill Prince Jiu, and Zhaohu died as well. Qi demanded that Lu return Guan Zhong, who was a prominent figure in the state of Lu. The people of Lu were divided. Shi Bo suggested that if Qi wanted Guan Zhong, it would be better to kill him and send his body to Qi, but Duke Zhuang refused to heed this advice and instead imprisoned Guan Zhong, who was eventually returned to Qi.

In the 13th year of Duke Zhuang’s reign, he and Cao Mo met with Duke Huan of Qi at Ke. Cao Mo took Duke Huan captive, demanding that Lu invade Qi’s land, but after a treaty was signed, Duke Huan was released. Duke Huan later broke the agreement, and Guan Zhong, who had become his advisor, counseled him to return the land to Lu.

In the 15th year, Duke Huan of Qi began his dominance over the various states, establishing his hegemony. By the 23rd year, Duke Zhuang visited Qi to observe the sacrificial rites there.

In the 32nd year, Duke Zhuang built a platform overlooking the Dangshi clan’s area and met Meng Nu, a woman whom he grew fond of. He promised to marry her and swore an oath by cutting his arm. Meng Nu gave birth to a son, Ban. As Ban grew, he became infatuated with a woman from the Liang clan. A servant, Luo, was seen flirting with her outside the walls, and Ban, enraged, beat him. Upon hearing of this, Duke Zhuang commented, “Luo was strong, and it was not appropriate to punish him so harshly.” Ban, however, was not allowed to kill Luo.

At this time, Duke Zhuang fell ill. He had three younger brothers: the eldest, Qingfu; the second, Shuya; and the third, Jiyou. Duke Zhuang took a woman from Qi, named Ai Jiang, as his wife, but she bore him no children. Ai Jiang’s younger sister, Shu Jiang, had a son, Kai. As Duke Zhuang had no direct heir, he favored Meng Nu’s son, Ban, and wanted him to succeed the throne.

Before his death, Duke Zhuang consulted with his brother Shuya about the succession. Shuya advised, “According to the rules of Lu, it is customary for the eldest son to succeed the throne. Qingfu is capable of succeeding, so why are you worried?” However, Duke Zhuang feared Shuya would attempt to elevate Qingfu to the throne. He then consulted with Jiyou, who suggested, “I will die to ensure Ban ascends.” Duke Zhuang asked how Shuya’s desire to appoint Qingfu as heir would be dealt with, and Jiyou took it upon himself to instruct his servant to poison Shuya. He drank the poisoned wine, thus passing away, and his son was appointed as the ruler of Lu.

In August of that year, Duke Zhuang passed away, and his son Ban was installed as the new ruler of Lu, as Duke Zhuang had instructed. During the mourning period, the funeral took place in Dangshi.

Earlier, Qingfu had secretly been in a relationship with Ai Jiang, and together they conspired to have Ai Jiang’s son, Kai, succeed the throne. Upon Duke Zhuang’s death and the succession of Ban, Qingfu orchestrated the assassination of Ban in Dangshi, using the servant Luo to carry out the killing. Jiyou fled to the state of Chen. Eventually, Qingfu succeeded in installing his own son, Kai, on the throne, where he became known as Duke Min.

The Power Struggles and Political Intrigue of the State of Lu: The Rise of Duke Xian and the Reign of Duke Cheng

In the second year of Duke Min’s reign, Qingfu and Ai Jiang had a close and secretive relationship. Together, they plotted to murder Duke Min and replace him with Qingfu. Qingfu sent the assassin Bu Qi to kill Duke Min in the royal palace. Upon hearing this, Ji You, a minister of Lu and brother to Duke Min, went to Zhur to ask for asylum and requested to return to Lu to confront the situation. The people of Lu wanted to execute Qingfu.

Fearing retribution, Qingfu fled to Ju. Ji You brought Duke Min’s brother, Shen, back to Lu and installed him as Duke Xi, who was also a younger son of Duke Zhuang. Ai Jiang, fearing retribution, fled to Zhur. Ji You sought bribes from Ju to bring Qingfu back, which was allowed. Upon returning, Qingfu was killed by order of Ji You, who disregarded Qingfu’s plea for asylum and sent his chief minister, Xisi, to conduct the mourning rites before traveling to Ju. Upon hearing the ritual mourning sound, Qingfu committed suicide.

When Duke Huan of Qi learned of Ai Jiang and Qingfu’s actions destabilizing Lu, he summoned them to Zhur and executed them, returning their bodies to Lu, where they were mutilated. Duke Xi of Lu then arranged for their proper burial.

Ji You’s mother, a woman from Chen, had connections there. When Ji You was born, Duke Huan had a diviner read his fate. It was prophesied that Ji You would be a valuable support to the state, and the name “You” was chosen based on a mark on his palm. Afterward, Ji You became known as Cheng Ji. His descendants became the Ji clan, while Qingfu’s descendants became the Meng clan.

In the first year of Duke Xi’s reign, Ji You was granted the territory of Wenyang in Yi as a fief and became the chief minister.

In the ninth year, the state of Jin, under the leadership of Li Ke, killed their ruler, Duke Xiqi. Duke Huan of Qi, with Duke Xi, led an army to restore order in Jin, capturing Gaoliang before returning to Qi. Duke Huan then installed Duke Hui of Jin. In the 17th year, Duke Huan of Qi died, and in the 24th year, Duke Wen of Jin ascended to the throne.

In the 33rd year, Duke Xi passed away and was succeeded by his son, Xing, who became Duke Wen.

In the first year of Duke Wen’s reign, the crown prince of Chu, Prince Shangchen, killed his father, King Cheng, and took the throne. In the third year, Duke Wen of Lu visited Duke Xian of Jin.

In the 11th month of the 11th year, Duke Wen of Lu defeated the Zhai people at Xian, capturing the leader Zhai Qiao, whom he executed by beheading.

During the reign of Duke Wu of Song, the military leader Sou Man invaded Song. The Minister of State, Huang, led the Song army to defeat Sou Man at Changqiu, capturing several of Sou Man’s men. The Jin army eventually wiped out the Lu forces, capturing Zhai Qiao’s brother, Fenru. In the second year of Duke Hui of Qi’s reign, Sou Man attacked Qi. Prince Chengfu of Qi captured his brother Rongru and buried his head at the northern gate. The state of Wei captured Sou Man’s younger brother, Jianru, and Sou Man ultimately perished.

In the 15th year, Ji Wenzi, a prominent official in Lu, was sent to Jin.

In the 18th year, Duke Wen of Lu died. Duke Wen had two consorts: his primary consort, Ai Jiang, a woman from Qi, who bore him a son, E, and his secondary consort, Jing Ying, who was beloved and bore him a son, Yu. Yu was favored by the minister Xiang Zhong, who wanted him to be the successor. But his uncle, Shu Zhong, opposed this and advised against it. Xiang Zhong sought the approval of Duke Hui of Qi, who had recently ascended to the throne and wanted to form an alliance with Lu. Duke Hui consented, and in the winter of the 10th year, Xiang Zhong had E and his brother killed and installed Yu as Duke Xuan. Ai Jiang returned to Qi, mourning and passing through the marketplace, saying, “Heaven! Xiang Zhong is unjust, killing my legitimate son and replacing him with a bastard!” The people of Lu, moved by her mourning, began calling her “Ai Jiang” (The Mourning Jiang). From this point, the political power in Lu shifted to the powerful families of the Three Huan.

In the 12th year of Duke Xuan’s reign, King Zhuang of Chu grew stronger and laid siege to Zheng. The Duke of Zheng surrendered, restoring his country.

In the 18th year, Duke Xuan passed away, and his son, Duke Cheng, succeeded him. Duke Wenzi, the prominent Lu official, remarked, “If I had killed my legitimate son and installed a bastard, it would have been disastrous. The one responsible for this is Xiang Zhong.” Xiang Zhong had successfully installed Duke Xuan but was not loved by the public. Duke Xuan had intended to rid Lu of the Three Huan families, and he had secretly allied with Jin to launch an attack on them. However, Duke Xuan died before these plans could be executed. Duke Cheng harbored resentment toward Xiang Zhong for his role in the death of Duke Xuan, and when Duke Cheng took the throne, he forced Xiang Zhong into exile in Qi.

In the second year of Duke Cheng’s reign, Qi invaded Lu’s Long territory, but in the summer, Duke Cheng and Ji Ke of Jin defeated Duke Qing of Qi at An, forcing Qi to return the territory. In the fourth year, Duke Cheng visited Jin, but Duke Jing of Jin disrespected him. Lu considered breaking its alliance with Jin and forming one with Chu, but this was not pursued. In the 10th year, Duke Cheng visited Jin again, where Duke Jing passed away, and Duke Cheng remained to oversee the funeral, with Lu showing respect for the late Jin ruler. In the 15th year, Duke Cheng finally met with King Shoumeng of Wu at Zhongli.

The Political Struggles and Power Shifts in the State of Lu: The Rise of Duke Zhao and the Decline of the Ji Family

In the 16th year of Duke Xuan’s reign, the Minister Zhuang Bo reported to the state of Jin, asking for the execution of Ji Wenzi. Ji Wenzi had displayed loyalty and integrity, so the people of Jin refused to comply with this request.

In the 18th year, Duke Cheng passed away, and his son, Duke Wu, ascended to the throne. However, Duke Wu was only three years old at the time.

In the first year of Duke Wu’s reign, Jin installed Duke Dao as its ruler. In the previous winter, the official Luan Shu of Jin had assassinated his ruler, Duke Li. In the fourth year, Duke Wu visited Jin.

In the fifth year, Ji Wenzi passed away. His household was so poor that they did not have a concubine in silk or a horse to feed in the stable, nor did they possess gold or jewels, yet he had served three kings as a loyal minister. It was said of Ji Wenzi, “He was known for his honesty and loyalty.”

In the ninth year, the state of Lu, along with Jin, attacked Zheng. Duke Dao of Jin had Duke Wu wear his crown at Wei, and Ji Wenzi attended the battle, showing great respect for Duke Wu.

In the 11th year, the three powerful families of Lu, known as the Three Huan, divided their forces into three separate armies.

In the 12th year, Duke Wu visited Jin. In the 16th year, Duke Ping of Jin ascended to the throne. In the 21st year, Duke Wu once again visited Duke Ping of Jin.

In the 22nd year, Confucius (known as Kong Qiu) was born.

In the 25th year, the Duke of Qi, Cui Zhu, assassinated his ruler, Duke Zhuang, and installed his younger brother, Duke Jing.

In the 29th year, the envoy of Wu, Yanling Ji Zi, came to Lu to inquire about Zhou music. The people of Lu held him in great esteem.

In the 31st year, in June, Duke Wu passed away. In September of the same year, the crown prince passed away as well. The people of Lu installed the son of Duke Wu’s brother, Duke Gui, as the new ruler, naming him Duke Zhao.

At the age of 19, Duke Zhao still displayed childish innocence. The minister Mu Shu did not want to install him, suggesting that, since the crown prince had died, the younger brother could take the throne. He recommended waiting to choose the most virtuous heir and consulting the omens. Mu Shu believed that Duke Gui was not the proper successor, especially as he appeared too joyful during a period of mourning, which might cause anxiety among the Ji family. Despite these warnings, Ji Wenzi insisted on installing Duke Gui. Upon the funeral, the court observed three changes in mourning attire, indicating that this decision was not auspicious.

In the third year of Duke Zhao’s reign, he visited Jin at the He River. Duke Ping of Jin expressed his regrets for the visit, and the people of Lu felt ashamed. In the fourth year, King Ling of Chu gathered the vassal states at Shen, but Duke Zhao feigned illness and did not attend. In the seventh year, Ji Wenzi passed away. In the eighth year, King Ling of Chu moved to Zhanghua Tai and summoned Duke Zhao. Duke Zhao went to offer congratulations and was given precious gifts. However, King Ling later regretted his generosity and took back the gifts.

In the 12th year, Duke Zhao visited Jin at the He River again, and Duke Ping expressed regret over the visit. In the 13th year, the crown prince of Chu, Prince Qiji, assassinated King Ling of Chu and took the throne. In the 15th year, Duke Zhao visited Jin again, and Duke Ping of Jin kept him for the funeral of Jin’s Duke Zhao. This embarrassed the state of Lu.

In the 20th year, Duke Jing of Qi and the famous statesman Yan Zi returned from a hunting trip and entered Lu to ask about the rites. In the 21st year, Duke Zhao visited Jin at the He River, and Duke Ping expressed regret once again.

In the 25th year of Duke Zhao’s reign, spring arrived, and the Eurasian tree sparrow made its nest. This was seen as an omen, for a popular folk rhyme from the time of the virtuous King Wen said: “When the sparrow builds its nest, the Duke will reside in the noble land, but when it enters a new place, the Duke will reside in the outer wild.”

The Ji family and the Hou family once fought over chickens, with the Ji family using spicy herbs to prepare the birds and the Hou family using golden claws. Ji Pingzi grew angry and attacked the Hou family, and Hou Zhaobo also became enraged by Ji Pingzi. The younger brother of Zang Zhaobo, who was working with the Hou family, secretly spread rumors and hid the Ji family’s wrongdoings. Zang Zhaobo imprisoned the Ji family’s people. Ji Pingzi retaliated by imprisoning the elderly members of the Zang family. Both the Hou and Zang families reported the matter to Duke Zhao. In September of that year, Duke Zhao attacked the Ji family and took their stronghold. Ji Pingzi pleaded for mercy, but Duke Zhao refused.

Ji Pingzi suggested the punishment of a five-wheeled vehicle for his enemies, but Duke Zhao did not agree. Zang Zhaobo’s people urged for Ji Pingzi’s execution, and the advisors of the Shusun family weighed the costs of keeping the Ji family in power. The advisors decided to rescue the Ji family. Eventually, the forces of the three families prevailed, and Duke Zhao was forced to flee.

On the Ji family’s request, Duke Zhao fled to Qi, where Duke Jing of Qi offered him a thousand households and awaited his arrival. Duke Zhao hesitated, asking, “Can I abandon the legacy of Duke Zhou and become a minister in Qi?” He was hesitant to accept the offer but was persuaded by the ministers to move. He also considered the possibility of returning to Jin but was convinced by his advisors not to follow that path. When he returned, he saw Ji Pingzi kneeling before him.

At first, there was hope that Duke Zhao would be welcomed, but after discussions with the Meng family and Ji family, they changed their minds and stopped their pursuit.

The Political Struggles and Downfall of the Ji Family in the State of Lu

In the spring of the 26th year, the state of Qi attacked Lu, capturing the city of Yun and installing Duke Zhao there. In the summer, Duke Jing of Qi planned to bring Lu under control, prohibiting the acceptance of Lu’s bribes. Ministers Shen Feng and Ru Jia, along with Qi officials Gao Ge and Zi Jiang, were tasked with delivering 5,000 bushels of grain to Qi.

Zi Jiang reported to the Duke of Qi, saying, “The officials are not serving the ruler of Lu properly; something is wrong. Duke Yuan of Song served Lu like Jin, but his envoy died during the journey. The Duke of Shusun also sought to bring the ruler of Lu under control, but died without illness. Could it be that heaven has abandoned Lu? Or has Lu’s ruler angered the gods? I ask that you wait and see.” Duke Jing of Qi agreed.

In the 28th year, Duke Zhao visited Jin and sought to gain entry. Ji Pingzi secretly bribed the six ministers of Jin, who then advised the Jin ruler. The Jin ruler stopped his efforts and allowed Duke Zhao to remain in his position at Qianhou. In the 29th year, Duke Zhao went to Yun. Duke Jing of Qi sent a letter to Duke Zhao, referring to himself as the “ruler of the ruler.” Duke Zhao was ashamed by this and, in anger, left Qianhou.

In the 31st year, Jin attempted to bring Duke Zhao under its control, summoning Ji Pingzi. Ji Pingzi, in plain clothes and barefoot, apologized on behalf of the six ministers, saying, “The people do not agree with bringing Duke Zhao under Jin’s control.” The Jin court relented. In the 32nd year, Duke Zhao died at Qianhou. The people of Lu then installed Duke Zhao’s younger brother, Duke Song, as the new ruler, calling him Duke Ding.

Upon Duke Ding’s ascension, the powerful minister Zhao Jianzi asked the historian Shi Mo, “Has the Ji family fallen?” Shi Mo replied, “No, the Ji family is still strong. Ji You has done great service to Lu, receiving the title of High Minister at the capital, and the Ji family has continually grown in power since then. After the death of Duke Wen of Lu, the Ji family seized control, killing the rightful heir to place the sons of the Ji family in power. The people no longer know who their true ruler is. Therefore, it is essential for the ruler to be cautious with their authority and titles and not give such power to others.”

In the 5th year of Duke Ding’s reign, Ji Pingzi passed away. Minister Yang Hu grew angry and imprisoned Ji Huanzi, eventually making a vow to release him. In the 7th year, Qi attacked Lu again, taking Yun and making it Yang Hu’s new base of power. In the 8th year, Yang Hu sought to eliminate the three powerful families of Lu, replacing them with their more loyal children. Ji Huanzi, however, narrowly escaped death through deception. The three families united and attacked Yang Hu, forcing him to retreat to Yang Pass.

In the 9th year, Lu attacked Yang Hu, forcing him to flee to Qi and later to the Zhao family of Jin.

In the 10th year, Duke Ding met with Duke Jing of Qi at Jia Gu. Confucius served as a minister and advisor. Qi sought to attack Lu, but Confucius used propriety and rituals to resist, condemning Qi’s indulgent behavior. Fearing Confucius’ influence, Duke Jing stopped his plans and returned the land that Qi had taken from Lu, apologizing for the transgression.

In the 12th year, Duke Ding sent Zhong You to dismantle the strongholds of the three families and confiscate their weapons. However, the Meng family refused to abandon their fortresses. The Lu army attacked, but was unable to overcome them. Ji Huanzi received musical instruments from a Qi woman, and Confucius decided to leave Lu.

The Downfall of the State of Lu and the Rise and Fall of its Rulers

In the 15th year, Duke Ding passed away, and his son succeeded him as Duke Ai.

In the 5th year of Duke Ai’s reign, Duke Jing of Qi died. In the 6th year, the ruler of Qi, Tian Qi, assassinated his lord, Duke Ruzi.

In the 7th year, King Fuchai of Wu grew strong and attacked Qi, reaching the city of Zeng. He demanded tribute of 100 prisoners from Lu. Ji Kangzi, the ruler of Lu, sent Zi Gong to negotiate with King Fuchai and the chief minister, Ji, urging them to stop the aggression using the rituals of propriety. King Fuchai responded, saying, “I am tattooed, so propriety has no place here,” and stopped the invasion.

In the 8th year, Wu attacked Lu, reaching the city of Zou. After a brief conflict, they made a treaty and withdrew. Qi then attacked Lu and seized three cities.

In the 10th year, Wu attacked Qi’s southern borders. In the 11th year, Qi attacked Lu again. Ji family member Ran You was praised for his contributions, and Confucius returned to Lu from Wei.

In the 14th year, Tian Chang of Qi assassinated his ruler, Duke Jian, at Xuzhou. Confucius urged Duke Ai to take action, but Duke Ai did not listen. In the 15th year, Ji Pingzi sent Zi Fu Jingbo and Zi Gong to Qi to negotiate. Qi agreed to return Lu’s seized lands. Tian Chang, the new prime minister of Qi, wanted to establish closer relations with the other states.

In the 16th year, Confucius passed away.

In the 22nd year, King Goujian of Yue defeated King Fuchai of Wu.

In the 27th year, Ji Kangzi died. In the summer, Duke Ai began to worry about the power of the three influential families—the Ji, the Shusun, and the Meng—considering using the other states to force them into submission. The three families also feared Duke Ai’s increasing authority. The situation became tense, with the ruler and the three families at odds. Duke Ai visited Lingban, where he met Meng Wubo in the street, asking, “Do you think I will die soon?” Wubo replied, “I do not know.” Duke Ai considered using Yue to attack the three families. In August, Duke Ai visited Xing Shi, but the three families attacked him. Duke Ai fled to Wei, then to Zou, and eventually to Yue. The people of Lu later welcomed Duke Ai back, but he died at Youshan. His son Ning succeeded him as Duke Dao.

During Duke Dao’s reign, the three families continued to dominate, and Lu was treated like a minor state, subjugated by the power of the three families.

In the 13th year, the three Jin states destroyed the power of Zhi Bo and divided his lands.

In the 37th year, Duke Dao died, and his son Jia succeeded him as Duke Yuan. Duke Yuan reigned for 21 years before passing away, and his son Xian became Duke Mu. Duke Mu ruled for 33 years before passing, and his son Fen succeeded him as Duke Gong. Duke Gong reigned for 22 years, followed by his son Tun as Duke Kang. Duke Kang died after 9 years, and his son Yan became Duke Jing. Duke Jing ruled for 29 years and was succeeded by his son Shu, who became Duke Ping. At this time, all the six states were recognized as kingdoms.

In the 12th year of Duke Ping’s reign, King Hui of Qin died. In the 20th year, Duke Ping also died, and his son Jia succeeded him as Duke Wen. In the first year of Duke Wen’s reign, King Huai of Chu died in Qin. In the 23rd year, Duke Wen passed away, and his son Chou became Duke Qing.

In the 2nd year of Duke Qing’s reign, Qin captured the city of Ying from Chu, causing King Qing of Chu to flee east to Chen. In the 19th year, Chu attacked Lu and took Xu. In the 24th year, King Koa of Chu attacked and destroyed Lu. Duke Qing fled, moving to the lower capital and then to his family’s home, and Lu’s ancestral worship ceased. Duke Qing died at Ke.

The state of Lu, from Duke Zhou to Duke Qing, lasted a total of 34 generations.

The Grand Historian (Sima Qian) said, “I have heard Confucius say, ‘The decline of the Lu state is truly severe! Between the rivers of the Zushu and Si, the water flows erratically.’ Looking at the events during the time of Yin Huan, King Qing, and the reigns of the various Dukes, it is clear how chaotic things were. When Xiang Zhong killed the rightful heir and appointed a bastard son to the throne; when the three families of Lu acted as ministers and openly opposed the rightful ruler, forcing him to flee—how could such behavior be considered proper? While they observed formalities and rituals, their actions were filled with contradictions.”