Zhang Jun (1097-1164), courtesy name Deyuan, was one of the Southern Song Dynasty’s best-known officials. He resisted the Jin, served as both a military leader and a statesman, and over the course of five reigns won the trust of three emperors. Under Emperor Xiaozong, he was eventually granted the noble title Duke of Wei. What makes his long rise even more remarkable is that, according to traditional accounts, it had been predicted almost from the moment he began his career.
A prediction at the start of his career
When Zhang Jun was still serving as a relatively minor official, he once met a Taoist priest whose insight would stay with him for the rest of his life.
The priest first studied him quietly without saying a word. Then he asked Zhang Jun to walk a few steps. After watching him closely, he spoke with unusual respect: “From your voice and the way you carry yourself, I can see that you are destined for great wealth and honor. In less than ten years, the realm will fall into turmoil. When that time comes, you will hold military power and rise to great prominence, either as a general or as a chief minister. You will render distinguished service to the court. Take good care of yourself.”
Zhang Jun was stunned. He quickly brushed the praise aside, saying he dared not accept such lofty words. Not long afterward, the Taoist priest disappeared.
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