-
Song Shengzhi [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Orphaned Song Shengzhi was famed for filial piety and virtue. He learned the I Ching in Chang’an, declined his cousin’s and Chancellor Kong Guang’s official offers. He herded sheep with Xun Yue, enjoying qin and books, and died of illness in Taiyuan.
-
Anqiu Wangzhi [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Daoist hermit Anqiu Wangzhi mastered Laozi’s works and rejected Emperor Cheng’s audience request. He humbly worked as a folk healer, wrote a commentary on Dao De Jing and founded the Anqiu School. Many disciples studied under him while he stayed out of officialdom all his life.
-
Chenggong [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Anonymous Han sage Chenggong shunned fame and wealth. Confronted by Emperor Cheng’s threats of rank, fortune and death, he calmly argued his spiritual independence. The emperor yielded and sent officials to learn his twelve chapters on state governance.
-
Han Fu [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Han Fu, a virtuous Western Han recluse, was summoned to court by Emperor Zhao for his noble conduct. Falling ill, he could not have an audience. The emperor granted him silk and sent him home to guide villagers. He stayed out of officialdom until his death.
-
Zhi Jun [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Virtuous hermit Zhi Jun dwelled on Mount Qian and declined his friend Sima Qian’s letter urging him to serve. He foresaw political misfortune. Later Sima suffered castration for defending Li Ling, while Zhi preserved his integrity and died in seclusion, honored by locals.