Zhuang (Chu King)

Zhuang , King of Chu ( Chinese 楚莊王 / 楚庄王 , Pinyin Chǔ Zhuāngwáng ; † 591 BC ) was from 613 BC. Chr. Until his death King of Chu in China and one of the five hegemons in the Spring and Autumn period .

When he ascended the throne of Chu, his empire was in disarray. In the first few years he wasted his time hunting and celebrating. Many of the courtiers disliked this behavior, but no one dared speak to him about it. It was only after three years that a minister compared him to a bird that had not sung and had not flown for three years. The king replied that if the bird were to sing and fly again, the world would be amazed at him. This saying ( Yī Mǐng Jīng Rén , 一嗚驚人 - something like: surprise with a cry) became a Chinese proverb .

According to other sources, his wife, Fan Ji, made him care more about his government business.

He made Sunshu Ao chancellor and initiated reforms. The agricultural yields of Chu increased under his rule, as Sunshu Ao had dams and reservoirs built in the north of what is now Anhui Province . He also annexed Yong State, thereby further strengthening Chu.

After some brilliant victories by his army, he tried to take the place of King of Zhou . He asked a messenger from Zhou about the weight of the Zhou Nine Thing , which were symbols of rule, but was refused.

At the Battle of Bi, his army defeated Jin State , another powerful state of the time. He later gained control of several other states.

Zhuang was considered a righteous ruler of high morals . For example, he is said to have called off the siege of a city when he heard of famine among the residents.

personal data
SURNAME	Zhuang
ALTERNATIVE NAMES	楚庄王 (Chinese)
BRIEF DESCRIPTION	King of Chu (613 BC – 591 BC)
DATE OF BIRTH	7th century BC Chr.
DATE OF DEATH	591 BC Chr.