Nine decorations

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The nine decorations (九錫) were rewards that the Chinese emperors gave to particularly outstanding officials as a reward for their deeds.

The character 錫 ( pronounced Xi in Mandarin ) is used instead of the expected 賜 ( Ci ) because the characters were interchangeable at the time this custom was established in the Book of Rites . It is therefore unclear whether the modern Mandarin ist should be pronounced as jiǔxí or as jiǔcì .

The nine decorations were probably introduced in the Zhou Dynasty , but there is no record of their awarding before the time of Wang Mang . From then on, the nine decorations became a symbol of the total power of an official over the emperor and his ambition to usurp the throne . In further Chinese history it seldom happened that a usurpation was carried out without the previous award of the nine decorations. Similarly, there was hardly a case in which the awarding of the nine decorations did not result in usurpation. However, for example, Cao Pi , the first emperor of the Wei dynasty , bestowed the nine decorations in 221 on the warlord Sun Quan , who then became a vassal of the Wei for a short time.

The nine decorations

gift occasion purpose
1. a carriage and horses The officer shows himself to be measured and behaved properly. He no longer has to walk.
2. Clothing The officer writes well and appropriately. His actions become visible.
3. written music The official has love in his heart. The official can teach music to his people.
4. a red door The official keeps his household well. Difference from other houses.
5. a ramp The officer acts according to plan. He can climb the ramp and keep his strength.
6. armed guards The officer is brave and dares to speak the truth. He is protected.
7. Weapons, bows and arrows The official is always on the point and follows justice. He can represent the central government and stamp out any treason.
8. an ax The official is strong, wise and loyal to the imperial family. He can execute the devious.
9. Wine The official is childlike. He can offer sacrifices to his ancestors.