Few individuals in the Three States Era (228-280) have drawn as much criticism as Jiāng Wéi. Particularly modern discussions. They blow up his failures and ignore his successes. Contemporary praise is tossed aside for the small instances of chastising mentioned. This man, till his dying day, served faithfully as a general and a hero to many. His inspiring presence lead men north many times, and they even joined him for one last sally to restore their State. Jiāng Wéi began his life with To-The-Death Troops, and he ended his life with them. Similar to his continued State’s First Emperor, from beginning to end he inspired loyalty in men when he hadn’t gained anything, and when he had lost everything. He was hailed, rightfully so, as a true hero of feudal morality.1
This is the Legend of Jiāng Wéi!
姜維,字伯約,天水冀人也。少孤,與母居,好鄭氏學。仕郡上計掾,州闢為從事。以父冏昔為郡功曹,值羌、戎叛亂,身衛郡將,沒於戰場,賜維官中郎,參本郡軍事。建興六年,丞相諸葛亮軍向祁山,時天水太守適出案行。維及功曹梁緒、主簿尹賞、主記梁虔等從行。太守聞蜀軍垂至而諸縣響應,疑維等皆有異心,於是夜亡保上邽。維等覺太守去,追遲,至城門,城門已閉,不納。維等相率還冀,冀亦不入維。維等乃俱詣諸葛亮。會馬謖敗於街亭。亮拔將西縣千餘家及維等還,故維遂與母相失。亮辟維為倉曹掾,加奉義將軍,封當陽亭侯,時年二十七。亮與留府長史張裔、參軍蔣琬書曰:「姜伯約忠勤時事,思慮精密,考其所有,永南、季常諸人不如也。其人,涼州上士也。」又曰:「須先教中虎步兵五六千人。姜伯約甚敏於軍事,既有膽義,深解兵意。此人心存漢室而才兼於人,畢教軍事,當遣詣宮,覲見主上。」後遷中監軍、征西將軍。
Jiāng Wéi, appellation Bóyuē, was a Tiānshuǐ Jì man. Lost his father in youth, was raised by his mother. He was studious and took to the work of Zhèng [Xuán]2. Served Tiānshuǐ Commandary as Upper Calculations Official. The governor of Liáng Province appointed him a Attending Official. Because his father Jiǒng who had once been Merit Officer, with his own body protected the prefect Tiānshuǐ Commandary when the Qiāng and Róng revolted, and thus died in battle, [Jiāng] Wéi was given the title of Internal Cadet, appointed assisting military affairs in his prefecture. Jiànxìng 6th year [228], State Chancellor Zhūgé Liàng3 lead a great host to Qíshān, Tiānshuǐ Administrator’s4 had been out on an inspection tour, [Jiāng] Wéi and Merit Officer Liáng Xù, Registrar Yǐn Shǎng, Recorder Liáng Qián, and others followed him. Hearing the Shǔ army was nearing and the various counties rose up [in revolt, joining them], the Administrator suspected Wéi and the others in their hearts were disloyal, therefore fled for Shànguī in the night. [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest discovered this, made chase yet were too late in reaching the city gates. The gates were shut and would not accept them. Together they went with Wéi to Zhūgě Liàng. Mǎ Sù5 had just lost at Jiētíng6, [Zhūgě] Liàng returned [with the] army from Xī County with a thousand families; [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest followed. Jiāng Wéi and his mother because of this became separated. [Zhūgě] Liàng appointed Wéi as Granary Department Official, Serving Righteousness General, enfeoffed as Dāngyáng Village Marquis, at the time aged twenty-seven years. [Zhūgě] Liàng to Chief Clerk Zhāng Yì and Army Advisor Jiǎng Wǎn7 said: “Jiāng Bóyuē is loyal and thorough in the affairs of the day, his thoughts are refined and precise. Yǒngnán, Jìcháng8 and others do not compare. [Jiāng Wéi] is Liáng Province's superior soldier“. He also said: “We must first have him lead Central Tiger Infantry of five to six thousand men. Jiāng Bóyuē is very proficient in military affairs, has strength and courage, and deeply understands martial ideas. His heart upholds the Hàn, his talent is double that of other men, when he has finished leading military affairs, he should be sent to visit the Palace, and meet the Ruler Above“. Later promoted to Central Army Supervisor and Campaigning West General.
〈《傅子》曰:维为人好立功名,阴养死士,不脩布衣之业。〉
Fùzi records: [Jiāng] Wéi was eager to earn name and fame; in secret he gathered men loyal to him. He did not give himself to the tasks of the lower class.〈《魏略》曰:天水太守马遵将维及诸官属随雍州刺史郭淮偶自西至洛门案行,会闻亮已到祁山,淮顾遵曰:“是欲不善!”遂驱东还上邽。遵念所治冀县界在西偏,又恐吏民乐乱,遂亦随淮去。时维谓遵曰:“明府当还冀。”遵谓维等曰:“卿诸人(回)复信,皆贼也。”各自行。维亦无如遵何,而家在冀,遂与郡吏上官子脩等还冀。冀中吏民见维等大喜,便推令见亮。二人不获已,乃共诣亮。亮见,大悦。未及遣迎冀中人,会亮前锋为张郃、费繇等所破,遂将维等卻缩。维不得还,遂入蜀。诸军攻冀,皆得维母妻子,亦以维本无去意,故不没其家,但系保官以延之。此语与本传不同。〉
Wèilüè records: Tiānshuǐ Administrator Mǎ Zūn led [Jiāng] Wéi and the
various men behind Yōng Province Inspector Guō Huái9 to from Xī
reach Luòmén on inspection tour. News came to them [Zhūgě] Liàng had
already arrived at Qíshān, [Guō] Huái turned to [Mǎ] Zūn and said: “This is a disaster for us.” They hurried eastward to Shàngguī. [Mǎ] Zūn was stationed in Jì County which bordered Xī County, feared the people would support the rebellion, therefore joined [Guō] Huái in leaving. At the time [Jiāng] Wéi spoke to [Mǎ] Zūn: “You at once should return to Jì.” [Mǎ] Zūn said to [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest: “To suggest such a thing makes you a rebel.” [Mǎ Zūn] departed. [Jiāng] Wéi had no ties to [Mǎ] Zūn, and as his family was at Jì, therefore he with the Prefecture Official Shàngguān Zǐxiū10 and others returned to Jì. The Officials of Jì invited in [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest and were overjoyed, sending them to at once meet [Zhūgě] Liàng. They were compelled [by circumstance], and so together went to visit [Zhūgě] Liàng. [Zhūgě] Liàng met them and was greatly pleased, wished to use them to welcome the people of Jì, yet [Zhūgě] Liàng’s front line was by Zhāng Hé and Fèi Yáo and the rest defeated, and therefore he led [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest to retreat, [Jiāng] Wéi was not able to return and he entered Shǔ. The various armies attacked Jì, and captured [Jiāng] Wéi’s mother and wives and children, but also as [Jiāng] Wéi was without ill-intent [to defect], therefore did not kill his family and instead arrested them to entice him home. This story differs from the base entry.〈孙盛杂记曰:初,姜维诣亮,与母相失,复得母书,令求当归。维曰:“良田百顷,不在一亩,但有远志,不在当归也。”〉
Sūn Shèng’s Zájì records: Previously [Jiāng] Wéi visited [Zhūgě] Liàng, separated from his mother, received her letter order him to return home. [Jiāng] Wéi replied "When there is a good land of a hundred qǐng, one should not stick to a single mǔ. If one has great ambition, one needs not think of returning.”
十二年,亮卒,維還成都,為右監軍、輔漢將軍,統諸軍,進封平襄侯。延熙元年,隨大將軍蔣琬住漢中。琬既遷大司馬,以維為司馬,數率偏軍西入。六年,遷鎮西大將軍,領涼州刺史。十年,遷衛將軍,與大將軍費禕共錄尚書事。是歲,漢山平康夷反,維率眾討定之。又出隴西、南安、金城界,與魏大將軍郭淮、夏侯霸等戰於洮西。胡王治無戴等舉部落降,維將還安處之。十二年,假維節復出西平,不克而還。維自以練西方風俗,兼負其才武,欲誘諸羌、胡以為羽翼,謂自隴以西可斷而有也。每欲興軍大舉,費禕常裁製不從,與其兵不過萬人。
Twelth Year [234], [Zhūgě] Liàng died11, [Jiāng] Wéi returned to Chéngdū and became Assisting Hàn General Right Army Supervisor, supervising the armies, advancing enfeoffment to Píngxiāng Marquis.12 Yánxī first year [238], he followed Jiǎng Wǎn to Hànzhōng. When [Jiǎng] Wǎn became Marshal-In-Chief, [Jiāng] Wéi was appointed his Major, repeatedly leading the armies west. Sixth Year13 [243], appointed Defending West General and Liáng Province Inspector. Tenth Year [247], promoted to Guard General and with General-in-Chief Fèi Yī together managed Secretariat Document affairs. That year Wènshān Píngkāng's Yí rebelled, [Jiāng] Wéi lead forces to suppress and settle them. Again he set out to the borders of Lǒngxī’s, Nán'ān’s, and Jīnchéng, Wèi Generals Guō Huái, Xiàhóu Bà and others came to battle at Táoxī. Hú King Zhìwúdài and others came with their people to surrender, [Jiāng] Wéi led them back and secured and settled them.14 Twelfth Year [249], [Jiāng] Wéi was given Staff [to command armies], again setting out against Xīpíng, returning without success. [Jiāng] Wéi believed himself to be adept to the western customs, having great military talent, and wished to entice the Qiāng and Hú into his employ, believing the region of Lǒng on the west could be separated and taken [from Wèi]. Every instance when he wished to gather a great host, Fèi Yī restricted him and would never listen, allowing his troops to never exceed ten thousand men.15
〈《汉晋春秋》曰:费祎谓维曰:“吾等不如丞相亦已远矣;丞相犹不能定中夏,况吾等乎!且不如保国治民,敬守社稷,如其功业,以俟能者,无以为希冀徼倖而决成败於一举。若不如志,悔之无及。”〉
Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū records: Fèi Yī spoke to [Jiāng] Wéi: "We together cannot can never compare to the State Chancellor [Zhūgě Liàng]; the State Chancellor was unable to capture the heartland, so how could we! Moreover, it is for us to protect State, govern properly, and vehemently defend the State Altars, leaving the great achievements to more able hands and not rest our hope on chance, deciding success or failure by a single stroke; If you fail at your aim, what use will regret be for us.”
十六年春,禕卒。夏,維率數萬人出石營,經董亭,圍南安。魏雍州刺史陳泰解圍至洛門,維糧盡退還。明年,加督中外軍事。復出隴西,守狄道長李簡舉城降。進圍襄武,與魏將徐質交鋒,斬首破敵,魏軍敗退。維乘勝多所降下,拔河間狄道、臨洮三縣民還。後十八年,復與車騎將軍夏侯霸等俱出狄道,大破魏雍州刺史王經於洮西,經眾死者數萬人。經退保狄道城,維圍之。魏徵西將軍陳泰進兵解圍,維卻住鐘題。
Spring of Sixteenth Year [253], [Fèi] Yī died. Summer, [Jiāng] Wéi marched tens of thousands of men against Shíyíng, using Dǒngtíng, and besieging Nán'ān. Wèi Yōng Province Inspector Chén Tài16 lifting the siege at Luòmén, [Jiāng] Wéi's provisions were exhausted, returning in retreat with the army. Next year [254], became Internal and External Military Affairs Commander. Again leaving to attack Lǒngxī, Dídào Chief Lǐ Jiǎn offered the city in surrender. Advancing to Xiāngwǔ and beheading Wèi officer Xú Zhì in battle, defeating the enemy. Wèi's army retreated from the defeat and [Jiāng] Wéi upon the victory came with many surrendered [people], capturing those of Héguān, Dídào, Líntáo Counties and returned.17 Eighteen Year [256], [Jiāng Wéi] again set out against Dídào, taking with him Chariots and Cavalry General Xiàhóu Bà18 and others19, greatly defeating Wèi Yōng Province Inspector Wáng Jīng20 at Táoxī, and the dead were of tens of thousands in [Wáng] Jīng's army. [Wáng] Jīng fled to defend Dídào and [Jiāng] Wéi besieged the him in the city. Wèi Campaigning West General Chén Tài advanced and relieved the siege causing [Jiāng] Wéi to withdraw to Zhōngtí.21
十九年春,就遷維為大將軍。更整勒戎馬,與鎮西大將軍胡濟期會上邽。濟失誓不至,故維為魏大將鄧艾所破於段谷,星散流離,死者甚眾。眾庶由是怨讟,而隴已西亦騷動不寧。維謝過引負,求自貶削。為後將軍,行大將軍事。
Nineteenth Year [256], [Jiāng] Wéi was promoted to General-in-Chief. He again organized and led armed [men] and horses, with Defending West General-in-Chief Hú Jì22 set a date to meet at Shàngguī, [Hú] Jì did not arrive, and therefore [Jiāng] Wéi was by Wèi Chief Officer Dèng Ài23 defeated at Duànggǔ, destroying his entire unit, the dead were numerous. The multitudes because of this complained and blamed [Jiāng Wéi], and from Lǒng westward greatly disturbed, [Jiāng] Wéi apologized for this failure and took blame, requesting demotion, becoming Rear General, yet completing General-in-Chief affairs.
二十年,魏徵東大將軍諸葛誕反於淮南,分關中兵東下。維欲乘虛向秦川,復率數萬人出駱谷,逕至沈嶺。時長城積穀甚多而守兵乃少,聞維方到眾皆惶懼。魏大將軍司馬望拒之,鄧艾亦自隴右,皆軍於長城。維前住芒水,皆倚山為營。望、艾傍渭堅圍,維數下挑戰,望、艾不應。景耀元年,維聞誕破敗,乃還成都。復拜大將軍。
Twentieth Year [257], Wèi Campaigning East General-in-Chief Zhūgě Dàn24 rebelled in Huáinán, took Guānzhōng's troops to go [to Wú]. [Jiāng] Wéi, in a bid to exploit weakness, headed toward Qínchuān, and again led several tens of thousands of men to set out against Luògǔ, reaching Shěnlǐng. The grain reserves of Chángchéng's were plentiful, yet the guard was so little, hearing [Jiāng] Wéi was close to arriving, and the masses were greatly afraid. Wèi chief General Sīmǎ Wàng25 resisted him, Dèng Ài also from Lǒngyòu led the many armies to Chángchéng. [Jiāng] Wéi made way to Mángshuǐ, creating campsites against mountain. [Sīmǎ] Wàng and [Dèng] Ài approached yet made no attack, [Jiāng] Wéi several times descended [the mountain] to challenge, [Sīmǎ] Wàng and [Dèng] Ài did not accept. Jǐngyào Inaugural Year [258], [Jiāng] Wéi heard [Zhūgě] Dàn was defeated, and so returned to Chéngdū. [Heaven's Son] restored his rank of General-in-Chief.
初,先主留魏延鎮漢中,皆實兵諸圍以御外敵。敵若來攻,使不得人。及興勢之役,王平捍拒曹爽,皆承此制。維建議,以為錯守諸圍,雖合《周易》「重門」之義,然適可禦敵,不獲大利。不若使聞敵至,諸圍皆斂兵聚谷,退就漢、樂二城。使敵不得入平,臣重關鎮守以捍之。有事之日,令遊軍並進以伺其虛。敵攻關不克,野無散谷,千里縣糧,自然疲乏。引退之日,然後諸城並出,與遊軍並力搏之,此殄敵之術也。於是令督漢中胡濟卻住漢壽,監軍王含守樂城,護軍蔣斌守漢城,又於西安、建威、武衛、石門、武城、建昌、臨遠皆立圍守。
Previously, Xiānzhǔ26 left Wèi Yán27 to defend Hànzhōng, and created many encampments for soldiers to resist outer enemies; if the enemies came to attack, they were not able to enter. Reaching to the Xīngshì Campaign28, Wáng Píng29 defeated Cáo Shuǎng30, all through following this system. [Jiāng] Wéi sent up a proposal, believing: "It is mistaken to only defend the various encampments, for though it accords with the meaning of the Zhōuyì's defense of Double Gates31, it is acceptable for resisting the enemy but not obtaining great benefits. Superior planning is, when hearing of the enemy’s arrival, to have the various encampments all keep soldiers and hoard grain, retreating to the cities Hàn and Lè so that the enemy cannot enter the plains, and we all must strengthen the passes and defend to withstand them. On the day of the invasion, we should order the mobile army advance and observe their weaknesses. The enemy may attack, yet gain no ground nor find any grain, forcing them to transport their provisions one thousand lǐ, then they will be succumb to fatigue. When the day of retreat comes, we shall let forth our soldiers from these two cities and strike as one unified force with the mobile armies. This is the method of eradicating our enemies." Therefore, [Jiāng Wéi] ordered Hànzhōng Commander Hú Jì to enforce Hànshòu, Army Supervisor Wáng Hán32 to defend Lè, Army Protector Jiǎng Bīn33 to defend Hàn, and also at Xī'ān, Jiànwēi, Wǔwèi, Shímén, Wǔchéng, Jiànchāng, Línyuǎn all were to have encircling defenses.
五年,維率眾出漢。侯和為鄧艾所破,還住沓中。維本羈旅托國,累年攻戰,功績不立。而宦官黃皓等弄權於內,右大將軍閻宇與皓協比,而皓陰欲廢維樹宇。維亦疑之,故自危懼,不復還成都。六年,維表後主:「聞鐘會治兵關中,欲規進取,宜並遣張翼、廖化詣督堵軍分護陽安關口、陰平橋頭,以防未然。」皓徵信鬼巫,謂敌終不自致。啟後主寢其事,而群臣不知。及鐘會將向駱谷,鄧艾將入沓中。然後乃遣右車騎廖化詣沓中為維援,左車騎張翼、輔國大將軍董厥等詣陽安關口以為諸圍外助。比至陰平,聞魏將諸葛緒向建威,故住待之。月餘,維為鄧艾所摧,還住陰平。鐘會攻圍漢、樂二城,遣別將進攻關口,蔣舒開城出降,傅僉格鬥而死。會攻樂城,不能克。聞關口已下,長驅而前,翼、厥甫至漢壽,維、化亦捨陰平而退。適與翼、厥合,皆退保劍閣以拒會。會與維書曰:「公侯以文武之德,懷邁世之略,功濟巴、漢、聲暢華夏,遠近莫不歸名。每惟疇昔,嘗同大化,吳札、鄭喬,能喻斯好。」維不答書,列營守險。會不能克,糧運縣遠,將議還歸。而鄧艾自陰平由景谷道傍入,遂破諸葛瞻於綿竹。後主請降於艾,艾前據成都。維等初聞瞻破,或聞後主欲固守成都,或聞欲東入吳,或聞欲南人建寧。於是引軍由廣漢、郪道以審虛實。尋被後主敕令乃投戈放甲,詣會於涪軍前,將士鹹怒,拔刀斫石。
Fifth Year [262], [Jiāng] Wéi led the army against Hàn and Hóuhé, yet was by
Dèng Ài defeated, returning to Tàzhōng.34 [Jiāng] Wéi was from a great distance away, giving himself to the State, for years on years had fought and battled, yet achievements not established, and the eunuch Huáng Hào35 and others held
power [at the capital], Right General-in-Chief Yán Yǔ36 with [Huáng] Hào were as one, and [Huáng] Hào in secret tried to remove [Jiāng] Wéi and replace with [Yán] Yǔ. [Jiāng] Wéi was suspicious, and he too weary of them, therefore he was set on not returning to Chéngdū. Sixth Year [263] [Jiāng] Wéi sent up memorial to Hòuzhǔ: "News of Zhōng Huì37 training soldiers in Guānzhōng spreads, his desire to come [and conquer us] is known. It is best to send Zhāng Yì and Liào Huà together with the many armies to Yáng'ān and Yīnpíng to prepare for the unknown." [Huáng] Hào gave himself over to magic, saying the enemy would not reach [the capital], convincing Hòuzhǔ to ignore the plea and the many ministers were not made aware. Zhōng Huì lead the army to Luògǔ, Dèng Ài penetrated Tàzhōng, and only after these events did they send to [Jiāng] Wéi's aide at Tàzhōng Right Chariots and Cavalry General Liào Huà, and to Yáng'ān pass sent Left Chariots and Cavalry General Zhāng Yì and State Assisting General-in-Chief Dǒng Jué38 and more to the many camps reinforcements. As they came upon Yīnpíng they heard Wèi officer Zhūgě Xù39 was nearing Jiànwēi, so they made due to advance on him. After a month Dèng Ài had defeated [Jiāng] Wéi, making [Jiāng Wéi] flee to Yīnpíng. Zhōng Huì sent sent seperate force to engage the pass, and thereupon besieges two cities Hàn and Lè. Jiǎng Shū40 flung open the gates and surrendered, Fù Qiān fought on to the end.41 [Zhōng] Huì could not overcome Lè, but when heard the news of the pass' fall, he advanced further. Both [Zhāng] Yì and [Dǒng] Jué reached Hànshòu just then where they were met by [Jiāng] Wéi and [Liáo] Huà after abandoning Yīnpíng, all then withdrawing to resist [Zhōng] Huì at Jiàngé. [Zhōng] Huì in a letter to [Jiāng] Wéi said: "My Lord, your civil and military brilliance, creating strategies to outlast the times, feats in saving Bāshǔ, your reputation shakes the heartlands, those near and far all know your name. When I think of ancient times, I feel we are of the same sort, Wú Zhá and Zhèng Qiáo42 are the model for our relationship". [Jiāng] Wéi sent no reply, instead arranging camps upon the mountainside. Many times [Zhōng] Huì attempted to defeat them yet could not, provisions were transported long distances and the Officers all discussed retreating. However, Dèng Ài traveled to Yīnpíng byway of Jǐnggǔ road, made it to Miánzhú and defeated Zhūgě Zhān.43 Hòuzhǔ therefore surrendered to [Dèng] Ài who advanced to take control of Chéngdū. [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest heard news of [Zhūgě] Zhān's death,
then some heard [a rumor] Hòuzhǔ wished to defend Chéngdū, others heard he wished to go east to enter Wú, some heard he wished to go south to Jiànníng, and therefore [Jiāng Wéi and the others] led the army by Guǎnghàn toward Qīdào to plan. They were by Hòuzhǔ ordered to surrender their arms, and go to [Zhōng] Huì’s army at Fú. The officers and soldiers were all angry, drawing sabers and slicing at boulders.
〈《华阳国志》曰;维恶黄皓恣擅,启后主欲杀之。后主曰:“皓趋走小臣耳,往董允切齿,吾常恨之,君何足介意!”维见皓枝附叶连,惧於失言,逊辞而出。后主敕皓诣维陈谢。维说皓求沓中种麦,以避内逼耳。〉
Huàyáng Guózhì records: [Jiāng] Wéi hated Huáng Hào and his monopolization of power, requesting of Hòuzhǔ to kill him. Hòuzhǔ replied “[Huáng] Hào is simply a lesser servant. Before Dǒng Yǔn grinded his teeth, and I resented him for that. Why must you make the same mistake?” [Jiāng] Wéi could see [Huáng] Hào was like a leaf to a branch, fearing retaliation he left. Hòuzhǔ ordered [Huáng] Hào to speak with [Jiāng] Wéi and to apologize. [Jiāng] Wéi spoke to [Huáng] Hào, requesting to use Tàzhōng to grow wheat, therefor avoiding issues from [the court]
〈汉晋春秋曰:蒋舒将出降,乃诡谓傅佥曰:“今贼至不击而闭城自守,非良图也。”佥曰:“受命保城,惟全为功,今违命出战,若丧师负国,死无益矣。”舒曰:“子以保城获全为功,我以出战克敌为功,请各行其志。”遂率众出。佥谓其战也,至阴平,以降胡烈。烈乘虚袭城,佥格斗而死,魏人义之。蜀记曰:蒋舒为武兴督,在事无称。蜀命人代之,因留舒助汉中守。舒恨,故开城出降。〉
Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū records: Jiǎng Shū in his heart was traitorous, and so deceived Fù Qiān, saying "Now the rebels have arrived, to waste away behind the gates and not fight is a failed plan." [Fù] Qiān replied: "[We have] received our orders to defend the city, holding it is a worth achievement, yet to disobey orders and seek out battle, if losing the forces we would betray the state, this would be a worthless death.” [Jiǎng] Shū retorted: "You may take defense and security as an achievement, whereas I take battle and glory as an achievement. Let us go on our separate ways." [Jiǎng Shū] led the army out. [Fù Qiān] was deceived thinking it was to battle. At Yīnpíng, he surrendered to Hú Liè. Taking advantage of the weakness to attack the city, [Fù] Qiān fought and died against [Hú] Liè, and in the end the Wèi men believed [Fù Qiān] to be honorable.〈干宝《晋纪》云:会谓维曰;“来何迟也?”维正色流涕曰:“今日见此为速矣!”会甚奇之。〉
Gān Bǎo's Jìnjì records: [Zhōng] Huì spoke with [Jiāng] Wéi [and said]: "Why are you so late to arrive?" [Jiāng] Wéi shed tears, his expression somber: "Even seeing you today is too early!" [Zhōng] Huì was moved by [his words].
會厚待維等,皆權還其印號節蓋。會與維出則同輿,坐則同席,謂長史杜預曰:「以伯約比中土名士,公休、太初不能勝也。」會既構鄧艾,艾檻車征,因將維等詣成都,自稱益州牧以叛。欲授維兵五萬人,使為前驅。魏將士憤發,殺會及維,維妻子皆伏誅。
[Zhōng] Huì gave generous favor toward [Jiāng] Wéi and the others, returning all seals, titles and staffs to their for the time being. Together [Zhōng] Huì and [Jiāng] Wéi shared the same carriage when traveling, sat upon the same mat44 and [Huì] said to Chief Clerk Dù Yù45: “To compare [Jiāng] Bóyuē to the heartlands famed gentlemen, Gōngxiū and Tàichū46 together could not be his better.” [Zhōng] Huì framed Dèng Ài, Ài was summoned [and taken] by prisoner cart, therefore [Zhōng Huì] lead [Jiāng] Wéi and the rest to Chéngdū, proclaiming himself Yì Province Governor and launched a rebellion. Wishing to give [Jiāng] Wéi soldiers of fifty thousand men and send him to the vanguard. The soldiers and Generals from Wèi were furious, killing [Zhōng] Huì and [Jiāng] Wéi, [Jiāng] Wéi's wife and children as well were put to death.47
〈《世语》曰:时蜀官属皆天下英俊,无出维右。〉
Wèi-Jìn Shìyǔ records: Of the officials at the time, none of them were [Jiāng] Wéi’s equal.〈《汉晋春秋》曰:会阴怀异图,维见而知其心,谓可构成扰乱以图克复也,乃诡说会曰:“闻君自淮南已来,算无遗策,晋道克昌,皆君之力。今复定蜀,威德振世,民高其功,主畏其谋,欲以此安归乎!夫韩信不背汉於扰攘,以见疑於既平,大夫种不从范蠡於五湖,卒伏剑而妄死,彼岂闇主愚臣哉?利害使之然也。今君大功既立,大德已著,何不法陶硃公泛舟绝迹,全功保身,登峨嵋之岭,而从赤松游乎?”会曰:“君言远矣,我不能行,且为今之道,或未尽於此也。”维曰:“其他则君智力之所能,无烦於老夫矣。”由是情好欢甚。〉
Huáyáng Guózhì records: [Zhōng] Huì in his heart held ulterior motives, [Jiāng] Wéi knew his heart and what he desired, planning to use [Zhōng Huì] to create chaos and restore [the state], so deceived [Zhōng] Huì saying: "All have known that Huáinán till now your plannings were without fault, Jìn can prosper and reign, all due to your ability. Now you again achieve Shǔ's destruction, your aura and power shaking the world, the masses exalt your achievements, [Sīmǎ Zhāo] fears your plannings, can you truly ever be safe? Hán Xìn did not betray Hàn, yet when peace came he still met his end48, Grandee Zhǒng did not heed Fàn Lǐ's49 warning and flee, so met his end and submitted [to death], were they ignorant rulers or foolish subjects? They were neither. Your greatest achievements are established, your large virtue known, why not then follow the path of [Fàn Lǐ] and flee on boat, take the path to the summit of Mount Éméi, or emulate Chì Sōng's pilgrimage?" [Zhōng] Huì replied: "You have spoken too much, I cannot leave, and as well things may not go as you say." [Jiāng] Wéi responded: Your intelligence can understand the rest, you do not need to humor this old man." Due to this their bond grew deeper.〈《华阳国志》曰:维教会诛北来诸将,既死,徐欲杀会,尽坑魏兵,还复蜀祚,密书与后主曰:“原陛下忍数日之辱,臣欲使社稷危而复安,日月幽而复明。”〉
Huáyáng Guózhì records: [Jiāng] Wéi sought to convince [Zhōng] Huì to execute the Generals of the North who did not comply. Wéi then desired to kill Huì and the Wèi soldiers to restore Shǔ. In a secret letter he to the Sovereign wrote: “Your Majesty need only endure this shame for a few days more, for I intend to restore stability to the threatened altars of state and bring the secluded sun and moon back into the light”〈孙盛《晋阳秋》曰:盛以永和初从安西将军平蜀,见诸故老,及姜维既降之后密与刘禅表疏,说欲伪服事锺会,因杀之以复蜀土,会事不捷,遂至泯灭,蜀人於今伤之。盛以为古人云,非所困而困焉名必辱,非所据而据焉身必危,既辱且危,死其将至,其姜维之谓乎!邓艾之入江由,士众鲜少,维进不能奋节绵竹之下,退不能总帅五将,拥卫蜀主,思后图之计,而乃反覆於逆顺之间,希违情於难冀之会,以衰弱之国,而屡观兵於三秦,已灭之邦,冀理外之奇举,不亦闇哉!〉
Sūn Shèng's Jìn Yángqiū records: Your Servant Shèng in Yǒnghé’s beginning followed [Huán Wēn]50 in pacifying Shǔ, meeting with many elders. Jiāng Wéi in his surrender drafted in secret a memorial to Liú Shàn, prcolaiming he intended to fake his submission to Zhōng Huì, lowering his guard to kill him to restore Shǔ, yet he failed and died, Shǔ men till now have grieved this. There is an ancient saying: "To be destitute in reputation yet not destitute is a true disgrace, to not control yet be controlled in body is dangerous, both in disgrace and danger, death arrives, is this not speaking of Jiāng Wéi! As Dèng Ài entered Jiāngyóu his troops were few, [Jiāng] Wéi yet refused to go to Miánzhú and battle, failing to protect Shǔ's ruler with his retreat, later creating a plan and flaking between loyalty and rebellion, hoping yet again against all truth for opportunity, only with a weak and pitiful state, yet many times deployed troops into Qínsan, with an already destroyed state, beyond reality clung to miraculous action, is this not ignorant?
〈臣松之以为盛之讥维,又为不当。于时锺会大众既造剑阁,维与诸将列营守险,会不得进,已议还计,全蜀之功,几乎立矣。但邓艾诡道傍入,出於其后,诸葛瞻既败,成都自溃。维若回军救内,则会乘其背。当时之势,焉得两济?而责维不能奋节绵竹,拥卫蜀主,非其理也。会欲尽坑魏将以举大事,授维重兵,使为前驱。若令魏将皆死,兵事在维手,杀会复蜀,不为难矣。夫功成理外,然后为奇,不可以事有差牙,而抑谓不然。设使田单之计,邂逅不会,复可谓之愚闇哉!〉
Your Servant Sōngzhī believes Sir Shèng in his criticism of [Jiāng] Wéi is not accurate. By this time Zhōng Huì and his army were at Jiàngé, [Jiāng] Wéi using the terrain defended from various camps, [Zhōng] Huì was unable to advance and discussing the plan to retreat, Shǔ’s saving was a possibility! Yet Dèng Ài came upon an unexpected trek to their rear, killed Zhūgě Zhān and Chéngdū gave itself over. Had [Jiāng] Wéi turned the army to return to the inner [state to defend], [Zhōng] Huì would have struck his back. With this in mind how could they both be possible? To criticize [Jiāng] Wéi in this inability to guard Miánzhú is irrational. [Zhōng] Huì intended to kill the Wèi Officers and draft a great army, giving [Jiāng] Wéi elite soldiers and let him be the vanguard.51 Should the Wèi Officers be killed, military control would fall to [Jiāng] Wéi, thus killing [Zhōng] Huì and restoring Shǔ would come quickly. Great victorys accomplished against adversity is exceptional. However because of impossible circumstances, one cannot say they are inept. Should Tián Dān fail in his strategem52, would we not believe he was foolish?〈世语曰:维死时见剖,胆如(斗)大。〉
Wèi-Jìn Shìyǔ records: After death Wéi's [body] was cut open, his gall bladder was 200mL in size.53
郤正著論論維曰:「姜伯約據上將之重,處群臣之右,宅舍弊薄,資財無餘,側室無妾媵之褻,後庭無聲樂之娛,衣服取供,輿馬取備,飲食節制,不奢不約,官給費用,隨手消盡;察其所以然者,非以激貪厲濁,抑情自割也,直謂如是為足,不在多求。凡人之談,常譽成毀敗,扶高抑下,咸以姜維投厝無所,身死宗滅,以是貶削,不復料擿,異乎春秋褒貶之義矣。如姜維之樂學不倦,清素節約,自一時之儀表也。」
Xì Zhèng54 penned the Disquisition of Jiāng Wéi [Jiāng Wéi lùn], believing: “Jiāng Bóyuē held the heaviest position of upper officials and the rightmost of various ministers. His home was simple and his wealth little, holding no concubines and only a single wife, nor did he rely on entertainment. Clothing, transport and meals were frugal. Neither lavish nor poor. [Money] which he spent was his entire salary. Incorruptible and without temptations, living a life to be satisfied with. Ordinary people speak of failures and success, praising the high and demeaning the low. All because Jiāng Wéi died violently with his family they look down upon him, but they are unable to look beyond the superficial and grasp the meaning of how Spring and Autumn Annals [Chūnqiū] criticized and appraised. Jiāng Wéi was steeped in his studies, always wearing humility and modesty, an example for all to emulate.”
〈孙盛曰:异哉郤氏之论也!夫士虽百行,操业万殊,至於忠孝义节,百行之冠冕也。姜维策名魏室,而外奔蜀朝,违君徇利,不可谓忠;捐亲苟免,不可谓孝;害加旧邦,不可谓义;败不死难,不可谓节;且德政未敷而疲民以逞,居御侮之任而致敌丧守,於夫智勇,莫可云也:凡斯六者,维无一焉。实有魏之逋臣,亡国之乱相,而云人之仪表,斯亦惑矣。纵维好书而微自藻洁,岂异夫盗者分财之义,而程、郑降阶之善也?〉
Sūn Shèng says: "Sir Xì's words are wrong! A statesman no matter their position must be diligent above all else. To follow the four fundamentals of loyalty, filial piety, righteousness and integrity is to be diligent above all else. Jiāng Wéi had served once in Wèi yet when opportunity came [to enrich his own desires], he betrayed his lord to Shǔ and so cannot be called loyal. His family were abandoned for meaningless life, so he cannot be called fillial. He brought war to his birth nation, and cannot be called righteous. He held no victory, not dying for the cause [of reuniting the country], and cannot be called having integrity. Even more-so, a virtuous government was not created, yet he exhausted the peoples in his own [search for] personal glory, destroy the state and invited in the enemy, so for wisdom and valor he has none. [Jiāng] Wéi in all six of these virtues posses not one. He was nothing more than a traitor to Wèi, a worthless minister of a destroyed state, and to call him an example for men is yet is even more baffling. Even if [Jiāng] Wéi was given to study, was humble, elegant and pure [as Xì Zhèng appraises], how is this any different than a noble bandit taking his share of the plunder, or Chéng Zhèng55 accepting demotion from office?"
臣松之以为郤正此论,取其可称,不谓维始终行事皆可准则也。所云“一时仪表”,止在好学与俭素耳。本传及魏略皆云维本无叛心,以急逼归蜀。盛相讥贬,惟可责其背母。餘既过苦,又非所以难郤正也。
Your Servant Sōngzhī believes Xì Zhèng in his words was proclaiming what could be praised, not that all that [Jiāng] Wéi was is a measure for all men. When claiming an example for all to emulate, this was his studious and frugal nature. Not just Wèilüè, but also [Chén Shòu's] writings say that he lived without rebellious intent, and it was circumstance that which drove him to Shǔ. In all of his bemoaning and criticism, [Sūn] Shèng was only right once when speaking of turning away from his mother. The other words are all harsh, and not the proper way to criticize Xì Zhèng.
維昔所俱至蜀,梁緒官至大鴻臚,尹賞執金吾,梁虔大長秋,皆先蜀亡沒。
Of those whom in the former years with [Jiāng] Wéi together reached Shǔ, Liáng Xù's rank became Minister Herald, Gilded Mace Bearer Yǐn Shǎng, Eternal Autumn Major Liáng Qián; all had died before Shǔ's destruction.
And so ends the Legend of Jiāng Wéi.
Please buy The Lords of Shǔ: Selected Translations from Chen Shou’s Records of the Three Kingdoms with Pei Songzhi’s Commentary by Yáng Zhèngyuán when it is available. This will include another translation on Jiāng Wéi, as well as the other major figures of the State such as the Yì Governors, Hàn Emperors, Two others Regents and the famous State Chancellor Zhūgé Kǒngmíng!
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「鍾會的效忠於魏。姜維的效忠於漢,又可稱封建道德之下的兩個烈士了。」
Zhōng Huì's devotion to Wèi and Jiāng Wéi's devotion to Hàn can have them be rendered as two true heroes of feudal morality.
Zhèng Xuán was a famed scholar at the end of the Later Hàn. Has an entry in HHS 35
Zhūgě Liàng was the famed State Chancellor of Hàn, perhaps best known through his fictional and folk lore version of the controller of winds. Though the real man was not a talent-less pushover. A studious hermit, he took up the noble cause of siding with the fledgling minor Prince in a bid to first divide the nation in three corners, then conquer and reunite the Hàn State. From his efforts in suppressing the south to his his famed marches on the north, coupled with his administrative reforms: There is hardly a soul at the time as uniquely talented and inspirational as the State Chancellor. Has an entry in SGZ 35.
The identity of this Administrator is given in the Wèilüè, Mǎ Zūn. Mǎ Zūn does not appear outside of this source.
Mǎ Sù is the younger brother of Mǎ Liáng, and a favored protege of Zhūgé Liàng. Due to his disastrous defeat and shameful evasion attempt he was put to death. Has an entry attached to Mǎ Liáng in SGZ 39.3.
Sānguózhì 三國志 17.4
諸葛亮出祁山。加郃位特進,遣督諸軍,拒亮將馬謖於街亭。謖依阻南山,不下據城。郃絕其汲道,擊,大破之。
Zhūgě Liàng lead his army to Qíshān. [Zhāng] Hé specially advanced rank[?], sent to command the various armies, resisting [Zhūgě] Liáng’s officer Mǎ Sù at Jiētíng. [Mǎ] Sù relied on the barriers Nánshān, [he] did not go down to occupy the city. [Zhāng] Hé cut off their water supply route, struck and greatly defeated them.
Sānguózhì 三國志 43.5
建興六年,屬參軍馬謖先鋒。謖舍水上山,舉措煩擾,平連規諫謖,謖不能用,大敗於街亭。眾盡星散,惟平所領千人,鳴鼓自持,魏將張郃疑其伏兵,不往偪也。於是平徐徐收合諸營遺迸,率將士而還。
Jiànxīng sixth year [228], [Wáng Píng] served as Army Advisor Mǎ Sù’s vanguard. [Mǎ] Sù declined water to go up a mountain, the action was chaotic, [Wáng] Píng repeatedly remonstrated [Mǎ] Sù, but [Mǎ] Sù would not listen, then was greatly defeated at Jiētíng. The army was destroyed, and only [Wáng] Píng’s command of a thousand men lasted, shouting and drumming to maintain themselves, and Wèi General Zhāng Hé suspected an ambush, so did not pursue. Píng therefore slowly gathered the scattered armies to escape, leading the officers and soldiers back.
Huáyáng Guózhì 華陽國志 10.3
丞相亮征隴西,平以牙門屬馬謖,在前。稷違亮旨,大敗〔於〕街亭。眾皆星散。惟平所領不敗,鳴鼓,持重逆兵,得免。
When State Chancellor led his expedition to Lǒngxī, [Wáng] Píng was subordinate to Mǎ Sù as Ivory-Gate division, serving in the vanguard. At Jiētíng Mǎ Sù violated orders [from the Chancellor] and suffered a great defeat and the army was scattered. Yet Píng struck the drums and together with the rallied army were able to spare themselves destruction.
Jiǎng Wǎn was one of Shǔ Hàn's Four Outstandings 蜀汉四英, as coined in the Huáyáng Guózhì. He was the successor to the famed State Chancellor Zhūgě Liàng, though he did not hold the esteemed office. Often lumped together with Fèi Yī as two men who knew their limitations and could not compare to Liàng, so did not make hasty gambles like Jiāng Wéi. However this notion, I believe, falls apart when when studies his entry in the SGZ and finds out that he indeed was desiring to make a hasty gamble down the river for a different strike onto the North, yet died before he could accomplish it. I feel history has misrepresented him. Has an entry in SGZ 44.1.
Lǐ Shào appellation Yǒngnán and Mǎ Liáng appellation Jìcháng are both subjects of the same state. Lǐ Shào is mentioned in Yáng Xì's entry in SGZ 45. Mǎ Liáng has his own entry in SGZ 39.
Guō Huái was a famous general of the State of Wèi, famous for his length service that saw him participate in many prominent campaigns. Though perhaps his most famous feat were his role in repelling multiple invasions from Shǔ Hàn. Has an entry in SGZ 26.
I am unaware of any other reference to 上官子脩.
For a story showcasing the trust placed on Jiāng Wéi by the famed State Chancellor, we can turn to the Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū
漢晉春秋曰:楊儀等整軍而出,百姓奔告宣王,宣王追焉。姜維令儀反旗鳴鼓,若將向宣王者,宣王乃退,不敢偪。於是儀結陳而去,入谷然後發喪。宣王之退也,百姓為之諺曰:「死諸葛走生仲達。」或以告宣王,宣王曰:「吾能料生,不便料死也。」
Han and Jin Annals [Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū] records: Yáng Yí and others organized the army in retreat, King Xuān (Sīmǎ Yì) was informed and made chase. Jiāng Wéi gave command to [Yáng] Yí to strike the drums and hoist the banners, creating a commotion of an attacking force, striking fear into King Xuān who retreated without battle. Following the retreat [Yáng] Yí announced that the mourning ritual of Zhūgé Liàng had perished. The commoners then had a saying "A dead Zhūgé scares a living Zhòngdá!", when King Xuān heard of this he remarked “I may make plannings against the living, yet not the dead”.
Located in Tiānshuǐ County, per Hànshū 漢書 28b. May have been County Capital due to position first in the entry. Jiāng Wéi’s first landed Marquis title, though given that the land was outside of the state’s control, it is sadly not an area he could see or manage.
天水郡,戶六萬三百七十,口二十六萬一千三百四十八。縣十六:平襄,街泉,戎邑道,望垣,罕幵,綿諸道,阿陽,略陽道,冀,勇士,成紀,清水,奉捷,隴,豲道,蘭干。
Tiānshuǐ County with household number of 60,370 and a population of 261,348. Sixteen counties: Píngxiāng, Jiēquán, Róngyì dào*, Wàngyuán, Hǎnjiān, Miánzhū dào*, Āyáng, Lüèyáng dào*, Jì, Yǒngshì, Chéngjì, Qīngshuǐ, Fèngjié, Lǒng, Huán dào*, Lángàn.
*Dào in this context does not mean the normal dào one might see such as ‘Way’, ‘Path’ or ‘Road’ when associated with the philosophical concept, or the literal meaning of road for travel. In this context Dao refers to county-level organization mostly inhabited by non-Han peoples.
This reign era is still Yánxī. When a biography does not include the reign era, but merely states a year it is meant to be the same reign era.
These events are recorded in SGZ 26.4, the entry for Guō Huái.
八年,隴西、南安、金城、西平諸羌餓何、燒戈、伐同、蛾遮塞等相結叛亂,攻圍城邑,南招蜀兵,涼州名胡治無戴復叛應之。討蜀護軍夏侯霸督諸軍屯為翅。淮軍始到狄道,議者僉謂宜先討定枹罕,內平惡羌,外折賊謀。淮策維必來攻霸,遂入渢中,轉南迎霸。維果攻為翅,會淮軍適至,維遁退。進討叛羌,斬餓何、燒戈,降服者萬餘落。
Eighth Year [247], Lǒngxī’s, Nán’ān’s, Jīnchéng’s, Xīpíng’s Qiāng leaders Èhé, Shāogē, Fátōng, Ézhēsāi and others together rose in rebellion, attacking and besieging cities and towns, welcoming Shǔ soldiers, Liáng Province’s famous Hú man Zhìwúdài rebelled yet again with them. Army Protector Attacking Shǔ Xiàhóu Bà commanded the armies to Wéichì. [Guō] Huái's army was first to Dídào, and advisers all suggested first suppressing Fūhǎn, inside settling the Qiāng, outside to halt the bandits plans. Huái believed [Jiāng] Wéi would attempt to attack [Xiàhóu] Bà, entered Fēngzhōng and turned south to meet [Xiàhóu] Bà. [Jiāng] Wéi indeed attacked Wéichì [where Bà was], and as [Guō] Huái came Wéi withdrew his army. He advanced suppressing the rebelling Qiāng, executing and taking the heads of Èhé and Shāogē, the surrendered tribesmen were over ten thousand.
Huáyáng Guózhì shares a similar sentiment to Fèi Yī.
諸葛亮雖資英霸之能,而主非中興之器,欲以區區之蜀,假已廢之命,北吞強魏,抗衡上國,不亦難哉。似宋襄求霸者乎!然亮政脩民理,威武外振。爰迄琬、禕,遵脩弗革,攝乎大國之間,以弱為強,猶可自保。姜維才非亮匹,志繼洪軌,民嫌其勞,家國亦喪矣。
Although Zhūgé Liàng naturally possessed the capabilities of a hero, his Lord was not the sort of man to restore a fallen dynasty. Despite that Zhūgé Liàng still sought to use the meager Shu region to restore a fallen state and to oppose a superior state; a challenge indeed! Was he not in resembling Duke Xiāng of Song seeking Hegemony! In this manner Liàng cultivated the people’s virtue, his martial influence reached the frontier. From [Jiǎng] Wǎn to [Fèi] Yī, did not alter his plans, trapped between larger states, they used weakness as a strength, and yet could defend themselves. Jiāng Wéi was not [Zhūgé] Liàng’s match, the people resented the demands made of them, family and state were destroyed.
Chén Tài was son of the famous Chén Qún, famed both for his defense in the west against Jiāng Wéi, as well as his defiant death in protest of the Regicide in his own state. Has entry in SGZ 22.
These events are recorded in SGZ 43, the entry for Zhāng Nì.
軍前與魏將徐質交鋒,嶷臨陳隕身,然其所殺傷亦過倍。
At the head of his army [Zhāng Nì] fought with Wèi General Xú Zhì, and in battle he was killed, yet numerous were those he personally wounded and slew.
Xiàhóu Bà was the second son of the famous General Xiàhóu Yuān. Much of Bà's career was spent playing subordinate roles to men such as Cáo Zhēn, his son General-In-Chief Shuǎng, Xiàhóu Xuán and more contentiously, Guō Huái. Following the murder of General-In-Chief Shuǎng, the traitors called Xiàhóu Xuán back from the west whom Bà served and he was replaced by Guō Huái. This prompted Bà to flee to the south west out of fear where he was taken in by Shǔ’s Soverign whose child and wife were relatives of the Xiàhóu. He was given hefty rank as one does for a surrendered person, though Bà as well had respected rank in his previous state as well. Perhaps famously Bà is known for advising Jiāng Wéi to be fearful of future disasters that will be brought on the state by Zhōng Huì should be given command at court. Has an enrty attached to Xiàhóu Yuān in SGZ 9.2.
世語曰:夏侯霸奔蜀,蜀朝問「司馬公如何德」?霸曰:「自當作家門。」「京師
俊士」?曰:「有鍾士季,其人管朝政,吳、蜀之憂也。」
Wèi-Jìn Shìyǔ records: When Xiàhóu Bà fled to Shǔ the Court took an audience with him “Excellency Sīmǎ [Yì] has what virtues?” Bà said: “His desires are selfishly for his family.” [The Court asks] “Does the capital have any promising talents?” [Xiàhóu Bà] replied: “There is one Zhōng Shìjì, whom controls the Court’s Governance. He is Wú and Shǔ’s anxiety.
漢晉春秋曰:初,夏侯霸降蜀,姜維 問之曰:「司馬懿既得彼政,當復有征伐之志不?」霸曰:「彼方營立家門,未遑外事。有鍾士 季者,其人雖少,終為吳、蜀之憂,然非非常之人亦不能用也。」後十五年而會果滅蜀。按習鑿 齒此言,非出他書,故採用世語而附益也。
Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū records: Previously Xiàhóu Bà surrendered to Shǔ, Jiāng Wéi asked of him: “Sīmǎ Yì has usurped the government, will he have desires to campaign again?” Bà replied: “He is enriching his families power, therefore he does not have the time for external affairs. There is a Zhōng Shìjì, though young will Wú and Shǔ’s anxiety before long, yet the average man could never employ him.” Fifteen years after these words [Zhōng] Huì destroyed Shǔ.
Xí Zuòchǐ in these words do not appear in other works, therefore it is selectively using the Wèi-Jìn Shìyǔ.
These events are recorded in SGZ 45, the entry for Zhāng Yì.
十八年,與衛將軍姜維俱還成都。維議復出軍,唯翼廷爭,以為國小民勞,不宜黷武。維不聽,將翼等行,進翼位鎮南大將軍。
Eighteenth Year [256], [Zhāng Yì] with Guard General Jiāng Wéi both returned to Chéngdū, [Jiāng] Wéi proposed again another campaign, yet only [Zhāng] Yì in the court opposed, believing the State too small and the people too tired, and that recklessly miltary action was not appropriate. [Jiāng] Wéi did not listen, and led [Zhāng] Yì and others to go, advancing Yì’s rank to Defending South General-in-Chief.
Wáng Jīng was a famed scholar of Jì Province. His failure in the west against Jiāng Wéi was seemingly the catalyst for him being recalled to the capital where he fell in close with Duke of Gāoguì. However his loyalty to his Emperor, nor his de-factor lord in the Regicide of June 2nd, 260 were not sufficient one way or the other, so he was executed with his family. Has an entry attached to Xiàhóu Xuán in SGZ 9.
SGZ 22
時維等將數萬人至枹罕,趣狄道。泰敕經進屯狄道,須軍到,乃規取之。泰進軍陳倉。會經所統諸軍於故關與賊戰不利,經輒渡洮。泰以經不堅據狄道,必有他變。並遣五營在前,泰率諸軍繼之。經巳與維戰,大敗,以萬餘人還保狄道城,餘皆奔散。維乘勝圍狄道。
[Jiāng] Wéi and the others at the time commanded tens of thousands of men to Fūhǎn, attacking Dídào. [Chén] Tài ordered [Wáng] Jīng to advance and camp at Dídào, to wait for [Chén Tài’s] arrival, and then together plan to defeat [the enemy]. [Chén] Tài advanced his army to Chéncāng. However the armies of [Wáng] Jīng’s with the rebels fought within the former Passes and were unsuccessful, and [Wáng] Jīng at once crossed the Táo river. [Chén] Tài because [Wáng] Jīng was not holding Dídào knew there was a change [in plan], sending five battalions to the vanguard. [Chén] Tài led the various armies and followed after them. [Wáng] Jīng had already with [Jiāng] Wéi battled, suffered great defeat with over 10,000 men, returned to defend Dídào city, while the rest all fled and scattered. [Jiāng] Wéi followed up on the victory by besieging Dídào.
涼州軍從金城南至沃干阪。泰與經共密期,當共向其還路,維等聞之,遂遁,城中將士得出。經歎曰:「糧不至旬,向不應機,舉城屠裂,覆喪一州矣。」泰慰勞將士,前後遣還,更差軍守,並治城壘,還屯上邽。
The Liángzhōu army from Jīnchéng southward went Wògān slope. [Chén] Tài with [Wáng] Jīng secretly planned together set out toward [Jiāng Wéi’s] return route. [Jiāng] Wéi heard this news, and therefore fled, and the officers and soldiers in the city were saved. [Wáng] Jīng sighed and said: “Our provisions would not last ten days. If not for this opportunity, the entire city would have been slaughtered and the whole Province lost.” [Chén] Tài gave appreciation to the officers and soldiers, sending them home, preparing garrison defenses and repaired city walls, and then returned to Shàngguī.
SGZ 45
維至狄道,大破魏雍州刺史王經,經眾死於洮水者以萬計。翼曰:「可止矣,不宜復進,進或毀此大功。」維大怒。曰:「為蛇畫足。」
Reaching Dídào, [Jiāng] Wéi greatly defeated Wèi’s Yōng Province Inspector Wáng Jīng, and [Wáng] Jīng’s army’s dead in the Táo river were in the tens of thousands. [Zhāng] Yì said: “We must stop here. It is not right to further advance. Advancing might ruin this great achievement.” [Jiāng] Wéi was greatly angered. [Zhāng Yì] said: “This is like drawing legs on a snake!”*
*To add what doesn’t belong to what doesn’t need it, ruining it. Jiāng Wéi by advancing after the initial great victory is, in Zhāng Yì’s mind, ruining a great victory by inviting defeat needlessly.
SGZ 4
癸丑,詔曰:「往者洮西之戰,將吏士民或臨陣戰亡,或沉溺洮水,骸骨不収,棄於原野,吾常痛之。其告征西、安西將軍,各令部人於戰處及水次鈎求屍喪,収斂藏埋,以慰存亡。」
Winter Tenth Moon, Imperial Edict read: "As We [Emperor Cáo Máo, Duke of Gāoguì] have so little virtue, are unable to hold back the plunderers and criminals, as a result Shǔ rebels came to Liáng frontiers, and our Battle of Táoxī came to defeat, officers and soldiers died, numbering in the thousands. Many lives were lost in battle, becoming forgotten spirits left only to wander. Many were by enemy hands captured, becoming distant land exiles. For this I am deeply greived, and for them I lament deep in my heart. Thus We have ordered that in their Prefectures the Managing Agriculture and the Securing Foreigners and Consoling Foreigners, Two Armoy Protectors, each are to have their divisions and great officials send condolences to each family, and without distinction endow exemptions from conscription for one year. Those who fought and died in battle are all [are to be honored by] old examples, with none overlooked."
Hú Jì was a favored of the State Chancellor and admired for his loyalty. He held respectable rank in the state, yet there is a sad lack of information on him. Has an entry appended to SGZ 39.
Dèng Ài was the famous Conqueror of Hàn, known most for his military rivalry with Jiāng Wéi that lead to the 263 Conquest, but as well as his political struggles with Zhōng Huì. Jiāng Wéi plays a role in his downfall that leads to his eventual death. Has an entry in SGZ 28.
Zhūgě Dàn was of the same family as Hàn’s famed State Chancellor, though a distant branch. Their branch remained north and came to serve Wèi, and later on Wú. He was known to be exceptionally bright and studious, earning vast reputation and intense loyalty from those who followed him. He eventually defected to Wú and lead a great battle, yet he could not overcome the North and was beheaded. His son served Wú. Has an entry in SGZ 28.
Sīmǎ Wàng was a son of Sīmǎ Fú and nephew of Sīmǎ Yì. He is most notable for his deeds in the Western theater in repelling Hàn, and later on Wú. Has an entry in JS 37.
Xiānzhǔ, or Former Lord, was the first Emperor of the Continued Hàn: Hàn Emepror Zhāoliè, Liú Bèi. A descendant of Liú Shèng, he fought across China from the north to the west, engaging in many famous battles and creating a tale that would be popularized a thousand years later. Following the rumor of the murder of Hàn Emperor Xiàn and the usurpation of the state by Cáo Pī, Zhāoliè proclaimed himself the next Hàn Emperor and pledged to continue the 400 year legacy, crush the traitors and end the civil war. However this was not the case as he died due to illness not long into his reign following a failed eastward campaign. Has an entry in SGZ 32.
Wèi Yán was a famed General and Traitor of the State of Hàn, perhaps most known for his disgraceful death. Joined Zhāoliè and served as a personal bodyguard on the campaign into Shǔ against Liú Zhāng. His battlefield achievements earned him respect and promotions, yet for all his talent he was too arrogant. Following the death of the State Chancellor he attempted to usurp control of the entire army and murder Yáng Yí, yet his plan was foiled and he, with his entire family, were put to the sword. Has an entry in SGZ 40.
Xīngshì Campaign took place in 243 when General-In-Chief Cáo Shuǎng lead an invasion of Hàn. They were met with resistance at Xīngshì by Wáng Píng, and due to supply disruptions they retreated.
Wáng Píng, otherwise known as Hé Píng, was a famed General of Hàn from Bāxī. He was illiterate but a gifted general. He held defeats over some of the more prominent Generals of his time, and is perhaps one of the most widely beloved Generals of his State. Has an entry in SGZ 43.
Huáyáng Guózhì 華陽國志 10.3
王平,字子均,宕渠人也。丞相亮征隴西,平以牙門屬馬謖,在前。稷違亮旨,大敗〔於〕街亭。眾皆星散。惟平所領不敗,鳴鼓,持重逆兵,得免。其後魏曹爽入漢中,平據興勢以拒之。已而魏軍退,如平策焉。
Wáng Píng, appellation Zǐjūn, was a Dàngqú man. When the State Chancellor 丞相 led his expedition to Lǒngxī, [Wáng] Píng was subordinate to Mǎ Sù as Ivory-Gate division, serving in the vanguard. At Jiētíng Mǎ Sù violated orders [from the Chancellor] and suffered a great defeat and the army was scattered. Yet [Wáng] Píng struck the drums and together with the rallied army were able to spare themselves destruction. At a later time Cáo Shuǎng advanced upon Hànzhōng but [Wáng] Píng would resist and the Wèi army retreated.
Cáo Shuǎng was General-In-Chief in Wèi during the Zhèngshǐ era. As a Regent he presided over an intellectual boom that saw the surge of the Qīngtán movement, as well as a renewed focus on the relationship between Rú and Dào. Military, outside of the Xīngshì Campaign, Cáo Shuǎng’s regime also did remarkably well. Putting down inner revolts, crushing outter invasions and crippling Goguryeŏ were all done under him. He was, however, done in by a revolt from within and murdered with his clan. Has an entry in SGZ 9.
James Legge’s transaltion
重門擊柝,以待暴客,蓋取諸豫。
They made the (defence of the) double gates, and (the warning of) the clapper, as a preparation against the approach of marauding visitors. The idea of this was taken, probably, from Yu (the sixteenth hexagram).
The only other mention of Wáng Hán I am aware of is in SGZ 28, though the context is similar.
蜀監軍王含守樂城,護軍蔣斌守漢城,兵各五千。
Shǔ Army Supervisor Wáng Hán guards Lèchéng and Army Protector Jiǎng Bīn guards Hànchéng, each given five thousands soldiers.
Jiǎng Bīn was the son of Jiǎng Wǎn, one of the Four Outstandings as mentioned in footnote 7. Held respectful rank and his talents were held aloft by Zhōng Huì, who wished to sacrifice at his father's tomb. He perished in the 264 rebellion in Chengdu. His entry is attached to his father's in SGZ 44.
漢晉春秋曰:景耀五年,姜維率眾出狄道,廖化曰:「『兵不戢,必自焚』,伯約之謂也。智不出敵,而力少於寇,用之無厭,何以能立?詩云『不自我先,不自我後』,今日之事也。」
Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū records: Jǐngyào Fifth Year [262] Jiāng Wéi marched the army to attack Dídào. Liào Huà objected: “‘Unrestrained warfare will lead to disaster’ is speaking directly of [Jiāng] Bóyuē. His brilliance does not compare to the enemy, and his strength even less so, yet he employs campaign without thinking, so how can success ever be achieved? The Shī says ‘I did not arrive early, nor did I arrive late’[?] describes today.”
Huáng Hào was a favored palace attendant of Hàn’s latter lord, perhaps most known for his corrupting influence and the role he played in the destruction of the State. He does not have his own entry, though he has a brief rundown of his doings in SGZ 39.
陳祗代允為侍中,與黃皓互相表裏,皓始預政事。祗死後,皓從黃門令為中常侍、奉車都尉,操弄威柄,終至覆國。蜀人無不追思允。及鄧艾至蜀,聞皓姦險,收閉,將殺之,而皓厚賂艾左右,得免。
Chén Zhī succeeded [Dǒng] Yǔn as Internal Attendant, and with Huáng Hào together schemed, inviting [Huáng] Hào to assist government affairs. After [Chén] Zhī died, [Huáng] Hào was elevated fromYellow Gate Director to Internal Regular Attendant, bested Chariot Commandant, being given power and authority, bringign ruin to the State. Of Shǔ’s men, none did not lament the loss of [Dǒng] Yǔn. When Dèng Ài reached Shǔ, he was told of [Huáng] Hào’s treachery and evils, imprisoning him and was ready to put him to execution, but [Huáng] Hào richly bribed [Dèng] Ài’s attendants, and was able to escape.
Yán Yǔ was a Genreal of Hàn, a close associate of Huáng Hào, and Regional Commander of Bādōng. Information on him is scattered in various entries in the SGZ.
Zhōng Huì was a statesman, general, poet, philosopher and hero of the State of Wèi, famed for his rolls in destroying Zhūgě Dàn and planning and leading the Conquest of Hàn in 263. He came from a well-off family and through his youth he was studious, earning reputation early on as a brilliant mind. It is said that of those in Wèi, only the late Wáng Bì of Shānyáng could ever best him. He served as a close adviser to two usurper regents, and as well served as Colonel-Director of Retainers, having all matters pass through him even though he did not serve at court. With the murdered Emperor he shared a close friendship, being involved in his inner circle as well having his own personal title. His brilliance in military matters allowed him to outsmart Jiāng Wéi in his defensive planning, seizing much of Hàn’s northern half with ease. He treated those who surrendered well and sacrificed to their honored dead, restoring their positions of power and befriending many. With an edict from the Dowager Empress he attempted to launch a campaign against the regicide and save Wèi, yet he was undone by mutineers and killed. Has an entry in SGZ 28.
Dǒng Jué was a statesman of Hàn and a favored Scribe of Hàn State Chancellor Zhūgě Liàng, who said of him:
「董令史,良士也。吾每與之言,思慎宜適。」
Director Scribe Dǒng is of a higher rank among officials. Whenever he and I speak, his thoughts are correct and cautious."
His rank in the State would grow even succeeding Chén Zhī in his duties following his death. After Hàn’s surrender he served in the region still until his death. Has an entry attached to SGZ 35.
孫盛異同記曰:瞻、厥等以維好戰無功,國內疲弊,宜表後主,召還為益州刺史,奪其兵權;蜀長老猶有瞻表以閻宇代維故事。晉永和三年,蜀史常璩說蜀長老云:「陳壽嘗為瞻吏,為瞻所辱,故因此事歸惡黃皓,而云瞻不能匡矯也。」
Sūn Shèng’s Yìtóngjì records: [Zhūgě] Zhān and [Dǒng] Jué and more believed [Jiāng] Wéi merely desired war, and was without accomplishments, and that the State was weak and feeble, all felt it was approrpiate to submit petition to Hòuzhǔ to make him Yìzhōu Inspector and recall him, taking away military authority; elders of Shǔ have heard Zhān’s memorial to have Yán Yǔ succeed Wéi. Jìn Yǒnghé Third Year [347], Shǔ Historian Cháng Qú believed the Shǔ elders said: “Chén Shòu at one point was [Zhūgě] Zhān’s official, at one time [Zhūgě] Zhān insulted him, thus gave this evil to Huáng Hào to say [Zhūgě] Zhān could not rectify and correct it.”
Zhūgě Xù was a General of Jìn, of the same family as Zhūgě Dàn and State Chancellor Zhūgé Liàng. During Hàn’s Conquest he was by Zhōng Huì arrested for cowardice and sent in prison carriage to the capital, though he was later released. His family was rather well off, serving both in the military and joining the royal family through marriage. He does not have his own entry in the JS, but has scattered mentions in the SGZ and JS.
I know of no other instances of Jiǎng Shū’s mention.
Fù Qiān is mentioned in annotations to SGZ 45
〈蜀記載晉武帝詔曰:「蜀將軍傅僉,前在關城,身拒官軍,致死不顧。僉父肜,復為劉備戰亡。」〉
Shǔjì records edict of Jìn Emperor Wǔ saying: Shǔ General Fù Qiān defending the city, resisting the soldiers until he perished [in battle]. The father, Róng, died in battle for Liú Bèi.
Two Spring and Autumn era ministers of opposing states who befriended one another.
SGZ 35.3
六年冬,魏征西將軍鄧艾伐蜀,自陰平由景谷道旁入。瞻督諸軍至涪停住,前鋒破,退還,住綿竹。艾遣書誘瞻曰:「若降者必表為琅邪王。」瞻怒,斬艾使。遂戰,大敗,臨陳死,時年三十七。眾皆離散,艾長驅至成都。瞻長子尚,與瞻俱沒。
Sixth Year [263] winter, Wèi Campaigning West General Dèng Ài attacked Shǔ from Yīnpíng byway ofJǐnggǔ road. [Zhūgě] Zhān led the many armies to hold at Fú, yet their front lines fell, falling back to station at Miánzhú. [Dèng] Ài sent letter to entice Zhān, saying “Should you surrender, I will surely memorialze you to be King of Lángyé.” [Zhūgě] Zhān was furious executed [Dèng] Ài’s envoy. They then battled and [Zhūgě Zhān] was defeated, dying in battle at thirty-seven years. The army was scattered and [Dèng] Ài quickly reached Chéngdū. [Zhūgě] Zhān’s eldest son Shàng perished with him [in battle].
Expressions of closeness between the two, citing they were always together.
Dù Yù was Statesman and General of Jìn, perhaps most famously known for his role in advocating for and helping with the eventual 280 CE Unification of the country. He was a relative to the Jìn Imperial family through marriage, and served as Zhōng Huì’s clerk. Has an entry in JS 34.
Zhūgě Dàn and Xiàhóu Xuán’s appelations, both men had extremely high reputations and were each very talented.
The fate of the family left behind in Wèi is unknown.
Hán Xìn was one of the Three Founding Heroes of Hàn 漢初三傑, and a famed military leader and statesman whose accomplishments held unite the nation and found the Hàn State. Yet due to his Lord's fear, he was stripped of power and later killed in false accusations. Has an entry in SJ 92
Wén Zhǒng and Fàn Lǐ are each generals of Yuè, and conquered Wú. Fàn Lǐ fled the state our of fear for his life, yet Wén Zhǒng remained and was forced to take his own life. This account is in SJ 41
Huán Wēn was a Regent, General, Statesman and Military Dictator of Jìn, perhaps best known either for his conquest of Chéng-Hàn or the iron-fisted rule he held over his state. Xí Zuòchǐ drafted his famous Hàn Jìn Chūnqiū as a political piece primarily to dissuade Wēn from dangerous usurpasous actions that would throw the world into further chaos. While Huán Wēn would not overthrow the state, his son would briefly do so only to be killed with his family. Has an entry in JS 98.2.
Pardon the interruption, but it is my observation that in this brief defense of Jiāng Wéi, Master Sōngzhī was mistaken in his belief that Zhōng Huì’s intention was to kill the Wèi Officers. The base entry for Zhōng Huì and the annotations agree that Zhōng Huì was advised to do so by an unnamed individual, suggested to be Jiāng Wéi in annotated sources, yet until the city was breached Zhōng Huì hessitated and only imprisoned them. As the mutineers poured in the order to kill came, yet this was a last minute attempt and not a planned out desire. To kill these men would mean total isolation and thus make Zhōng Huì an easy target to kill.
Tián Dān military Officer of Qí who, through drastic measure of creativly using flaming oxen to strike fear into the heart of their enemies, fixing swords to their horns and in the process killing many. The confused enemy was beset upon by soldiers and slaughtered. This resulted in a counter attack that saw several conquered cities return back to their previous state. Has an entry in SJ 82
斗 dòu is a unit of measurement for grain. A normal gallbladder is about 30-50 mL. To have a gall blatter this size indicates great courage.
Xì Zhèng was an official of the same state, and someone who admired Jiāng Wéi greatly. He was ostracized from court and often mocked for his lower ranking. He is perhaps most famous for the notable story involve his sovereigns surrender and missing his state. Has an entry in SGZ 45.
A minister of the Spring And Autumn Era who only recieved favor from his lord, and not through ability. This account can be found in Chūnqiū Zuǒ zhuàn-Xiāng-gōng
Great to see this bio translated, and I know this was a very dear project to you, so congrats on getting it done.
I changed my appreciation of Jiāng Wéi is the past few years, as I came to recognise that Shu-Han needed to go on the offensive, as waiting out would simply mean Wei would, at some point, decide to throw an overwhelming invasion, and it might have broken through She-Han's defences just on strength of their numbers and logistical capability. In this Jiāng Wéi did nothing but to resemble the late Zhūgé Liàng, who doesn't get criticized the same way .
I also came to realize that the victories he achieved were notable. His 154 expedition allowed him to defeat local Wei forces, as well as relocate some thousands of households to Shu-Han, and in 155 he dealt the Wei forces a massive defeat, which might have been the biggest life loss Wei had ever felt. I also think that following Zhang Yi's advise would have been wasteful, he had just destroyed the Wei forces, and that gave him a great chance to take a major fortified city, a powerful asset for future invasions. Had he followed Zhang Yi's advice you'd have people criticizing his decision, stating something like "A wonderous opportunity opened to Bóyuē, but his doubtful mind betrayed him, and he avoided attacking the vulnerable city, barely defended by the remaining forces. Alas, such a wasted opportunity, not taking the chance given to him, being unlike (insert whatever military commander did such a thing in the past). Clearly Bóyuē was not of the same calibre as these past greats. Oh, the waste!"
He's a controversial figure, but every military figure who lost becomes controversial like that.