Zhou Wu Wang, also known as Ji Fa, lived a life full of legends, spanning approximately from 1087 BC to 1043 BC. As the founding emperor of the Western Zhou Dynasty, his life was nothing short of extraordinary.
Ji Fa was the eldest son of Zhou Wen Wang, Ji Chang, and received a good education since childhood. He was known for his firm,resolute, wisdom, and bravery. During the time when Zhou Wen Wang was imprisoned by the Shang Dynasty, Ji Fa witnessed the corruption and tyranny of the Shang rule, planting the seeds of rebellion in his heart. Zhou Wen Wang had imparted to Ji Fa the principles of governing a country, emphasizing the importance of benevolence and the will of the people, which laid the foundation for Ji Fa’s later reign1234.
In 1046 BC, upon the death of Zhou Wen Wang, Ji Fa ascended to the throne, historically known as Zhou Wu Wang. At this time, the strength of the Zhou state had gradually increased, and Ji Fa decided to take action to overthrow the Shang Dynasty. He appointed talented individuals such as Jiang Tai Gong (Jiang Shang) as his military strategist, Zhou Gong Dan as his chief minister, and other capable officials like Shao Gong, Bi Gong, Kang Shu, and Dan Ji to various positions, forming a politically prosperous and talented team. Simultaneously, Ji Fa actively united neighboring tribes and states, forming a powerful alliance against the Shang, rallying various vassal states under the slogan of “Reviving the Zhou and Destroying the Shang”124.
In 1046 BC, Ji Fa led his army to attack the Shang Dynasty, achieving a decisive victory in the Battle of Muye, which ended the Shang rule. In this battle, Ji Fa’s army was morale-high and fought with great bravery, ultimately defeating the last Shang emperor, Zhou. As a result, Ji Fa was honored with the title “Wu Wang” (Martial King) and established the Zhou Dynasty, marking the beginning of the 800-year-long Zhou Dynasty in Chinese history23.
After founding the Zhou Dynasty, Ji Fa implemented a series of unprecedented measures, centered around the idea of “Respecting Heaven and Protecting the People.” He introduced the feudal system, patriarchal system, well-field system, and ritual-music system, which influenced China for more than three thousand years and made him one of the founders of Chinese civilization5.
In addition, during his reign, Ji Fa also valued his family life. His queen was Tai Ji, a virtuous and wise woman who assisted him in handling state affairs. Besides Tai Ji, Ji Fa had several concubines, among whom Jiang Shi was the most famous. She often advised him during his military campaigns, helping him maintain stability in complex political situations3.
In summary, the life of Zhou Wu Wang, Ji Fa, was one of struggle and wisdom. His legendary story has been widely celebrated by later generations. His political wisdom, military prowess, and contributions to the country have made him an indispensable figure in ancient Chinese history.