Stories of Tolerance and Forgiveness in Ancient Times (Part 3)

(Minghui.org)

(Continued from Part 2)

Tolerance is an excellent way to avoid disasters and earn blessings. It can be difficult to do, but when facing setbacks and humiliation, a calm, generous, and rational response will often turn things around.

Waiting Over 20 Years Before Becoming an Accomplished Emperor

Li Chen, also known as Emperor Xuanzong (810-859), was one of the outstanding emperors of the late Tang dynasty. In his youth, Li was considered shy and a poor speaker, and he was often bullied. Even though he was a prince, he was forced to leave the capital city and live elsewhere.

In 820, Li Chen’s older brother Li Heng became emperor, but he died four years later. Li Heng’s son Li Zhan was then enthroned, but he died at age 18. After that, Li Zhan’s younger brother Li Ang became emperor, followed by Li Yan, the youngest son. During those 20-plus years, Li Chen tried to stay away from political matters and maintained a low profile. 

However, as an uncle of the previous three emperors, his nephews still suspected and ostracized Li Chen even though he kept a low profile and did not show off his talents. To avoid suspicion, he left the capital and lived in other places, often visiting temples. Wherever he went, he was careful about what he said and did.

In 846, Li Chen finally became the emperor. When he was enthroned, the Tang dynasty was already weak. He was committed to changing this situation, governing the country diligently, caring for the people, and focusing on choosing talented officials. He was one of the few emperors who made notable achievements after the mid-Tang dynasty. Because of the prosperity of his reign, people later on missed him bitterly, even after the fall of the Tang dynasty in 907.

Li Chen was able to avoid calamity because he could endure in complicated circumstances. That’s why he had a chance to succeed in the end. From this, one can see how important it is to be patient and take a step back. Li liked to read Zhenguan Zhengyao (Zhenguan Dignitaries), selected discussions between Emperor Taizong and his senior officials. He also considered the following words of Emperor Taizong as his motto: “Chaos arises when bad people are appointed [as officials]; prosperity is achieved when modest and talented people are appointed.”

(To be continued)