Zhou Ben, Chinese general (b. 862)

Zhou Ben (周本), born in 862 and passing away on February 3, 938, was a highly influential general and military commander during the tumultuous Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period in Chinese history. Renowned for his tactical acumen and leadership, he primarily served the state of Wu, also known as Hongnong, one of the significant regional powers that emerged following the collapse of the unified Tang Dynasty. Towards the end of his illustrious career, he briefly continued his service under Wu's successor state, Southern Tang. Posthumously, Zhou Ben was conferred the prestigious formal title of Prince Gonglie of Xiping (西平恭烈王), recognizing his profound contributions and loyalty.

The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period: A Backdrop of Chaos

The Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (907–960 CE) was a deeply fragmented and conflict-ridden era in imperial China. It commenced with the fall of the Tang Dynasty in 907 CE and concluded with the establishment of the Song Dynasty in 960 CE. This period saw five short-lived dynasties rapidly succeed each other in the traditional heartland of North China, while concurrently, ten relatively stable independent kingdoms emerged in the south and west. This political landscape was characterized by constant warfare, shifting alliances, and the rise of powerful military figures like Zhou Ben, who became indispensable assets for the survival and expansion of these nascent states.

Zhou Ben's Distinguished Service in Wu (Hongnong)

The state of Wu (902–937 CE), frequently referred to as Hongnong due to an early ducal title, was one of the most prominent and enduring of the Ten Kingdoms in Southern China. Founded by Yang Xingmi, a former Tang military governor (jiedushi), Wu consolidated control over significant territories, including present-day Anhui, Jiangsu, and Jiangxi provinces. Zhou Ben rose through the military ranks within Wu, distinguishing himself as a loyal and exceptionally effective general. He played a pivotal role in numerous campaigns that were crucial for defending Wu's borders and expanding its influence against formidable rivals such as the Later Liang dynasty to the north, Wuyue to the southeast, and Chu to the southwest. His strategic insights and battlefield successes were instrumental in establishing Wu's early dominance and maintaining its territorial integrity amidst regional conflicts.

Transition to Southern Tang: A Brief Continuation of Service

The eventual decline of the state of Wu was largely due to internal power struggles. Xu Zhigao, a powerful regent who had effectively controlled the Wu court for years, formally usurped the throne in 937 CE, deposing Emperor Yang Pu and establishing the Southern Tang dynasty. Despite this dynastic change, the invaluable experience and leadership of seasoned generals like Zhou Ben were highly sought after. Zhou Ben seamlessly transitioned his allegiance to the newly formed Southern Tang, continuing to serve as a high-ranking military official. However, his tenure under Southern Tang was brief, as he passed away the following year, in early 938. His continued service highlights the pragmatic realities for military elites during a period of dynastic transitions, where proven capability often superseded past loyalties.

The Significance of "Prince Gonglie of Xiping" (西平恭烈王)

The posthumous conferral of the title Prince Gonglie of Xiping (西平恭烈王) upon Zhou Ben was a supreme honor within the imperial Chinese system, reflecting his exceptional military career and loyal service. The term "Prince" (王, Wang) denoted the highest non-imperial noble rank, often reserved for close imperial relatives or individuals of extraordinary achievement who contributed significantly to the state. "Gonglie" (恭烈) is an honorific epithet composed of two characters: "Gong" (恭), meaning "respectful," "reverent," or "diligent," and "Lie" (烈), signifying "heroic," "meritorious," or "fierce." Together, these characters convey a profound recognition of his dutiful service, valor, and significant contributions. The "Xiping" (西平) component refers to a traditional commandery or region, a common practice for princely titles that typically symbolized a notional domain rather than an actual ruling territory. Such elaborate posthumous titles served not only to venerate the deceased but also to legitimize the ruling dynasty by associating itself with the distinguished figures of the preceding era.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zhou Ben

Who was Zhou Ben?
Zhou Ben (862-938 CE) was a prominent Chinese general and military commander who served during the tumultuous Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, primarily for the state of Wu (Hongnong) and briefly for its successor, Southern Tang.
What historical period did Zhou Ben live in?
He lived during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period (907-960 CE), a chaotic era in Chinese history marked by the collapse of the Tang Dynasty and the emergence of numerous short-lived dynasties and independent kingdoms.
Which states did Zhou Ben primarily serve?
Zhou Ben primarily served the state of Wu, also known as Hongnong. Following Wu's demise, he briefly served its successor state, Southern Tang.
What was the state of Wu (Hongnong)?
Wu was one of the powerful "Ten Kingdoms" that emerged in Southern China during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. Founded by Yang Xingmi, it controlled significant territories in what are now Anhui, Jiangsu, and Jiangxi provinces, lasting from 902 to 937 CE.
How was Southern Tang related to the state of Wu?
Southern Tang was the successor state to Wu. It was founded in 937 CE by Xu Zhigao (later known as Li Bian), who was the powerful regent and effectively the de facto ruler of Wu before he formally usurped the throne.
What does the title "Prince Gonglie of Xiping" signify?
Prince Gonglie of Xiping (西平恭烈王) was a posthumous honorary title bestowed upon Zhou Ben. "Prince" (Wang) was the highest noble rank below the emperor, while "Gonglie" (恭烈) signifies "respectful and heroic/meritorious." "Xiping" refers to a symbolic commandery. This title recognized his exceptional service, loyalty, and significant military achievements.