Du Xian: A Model of Integrity as Vice Protector of Anxi and Records in Zizhi Tongjian

Brief Introduction

Du Xian (Xiān) was a renowned official of the Tang Dynasty who served as the Vice Protector of Anxi. He was one of the key figures in the Tang Dynasty's management of the Western Regions, known for his integrity and uprightness. In the Zizhi Tongjian (Comprehensive Mirror in Aid of Governance), Sima Guang selected Du Xian's story as a typical example of official self-discipline and integrity, reflecting the moral norms and political ecology within the Tang Dynasty's border governance.

Core Knowledge Points

1. Position and Background:
The Anxi Protectorate was the highest administrative and military institution for the Tang Dynasty to manage the Western Regions. The Vice Protector held a prominent position, responsible for assisting the Protector in handling tribute, trade, and military defense for the various states in the Western Regions. During Du Xian's tenure, the Tang Dynasty's national strength was still strong, but the border situation was complex. His position was crucial to the stability of the country's southwestern border.

2. Integrity and Refusing Bribes:
Du Xian is best known for the story of "Refusing Gold, Leaving Behind a Clear Breeze." When his term ended and he was returning to the capital, the kings of the various states in Anxi attempted to present gold, silver, and silk as farewell gifts. Du Xian firmly refused, stating, "I receive the Emperor's salary, why do I need this?" The kings forcibly hid the valuables in his luggage. Upon discovering this, Du Xian immediately retrieved the items and submitted a memorial to the court explaining the situation. This action established his historical image as a "clean official."

3. Historical Evaluation:
Du Xian's behavior was not only a matter of personal moral integrity but also represented the central government's requirements for integrity among border officials. His deeds later evolved into the idiom "Two Sleeves of Clear Breeze," becoming a synonym for praising honest officials in later generations.

Connection to Zizhi Tongjian Content

In Zizhi Tongjian, Tang Annals, Volume 27, Sima Guang recorded this episode regarding Du Xian's departure from Anxi.

* Historical Records: The book explicitly records the dialogue between Du Xian and the kings of the various states in Anxi. The kings questioned: "Officials in China all accept [gifts], why do you alone not accept?" Du Xian replied: "I receive the Emperor's salary, why do I need this?" This dialogue vividly demonstrates Du Xian's clear understanding of the boundary between the court's salary and private gifts.
Editorial Intent: When compiling the Zizhi Tongjian*, Sima Guang aimed to "use the past as a mirror to examine the rise and fall, and assess the gains and losses of the present." Including Du Xian's story was intended to emphasize the importance of official integrity in maintaining border stability and the court's prestige. Through this case, he warned future rulers and officials that corruption would damage the nation's image, while integrity is the foundation for consolidating rule.
* Contextual Significance: This event occurred during the Jinglong Era of Emperor Zhongzong of Tang. At that time, flaws still existed in court politics. Du Xian's integrity on the border formed a sharp contrast with some corrupt phenomena within Chang'an at the time, highlighting the character and integrity of border officials.

Conclusion

As the Vice Protector of Anxi, Du Xian's historical status lies not only in his military and administrative contributions but also in his role as a moral benchmark. The inclusion of his deeds in the Zizhi Tongjian has made "Du Xian Refusing Gold" an important part of ancient Chinese culture of integrity in governance, providing valuable historical lessons for future generations.