Yi Yin, said to have lived from 1649 B.C. to 1549 B.C., was one of the most respected ministers of early Chinese history. He served King Tang, the founder of the Shang Dynasty, and later advised successive Shang kings. His life became associated with wise governance, loyalty, and a mission believed to have been arranged by Heaven.
According to traditional accounts, Yi Yin also instructed Tai Jia, the grandson of Tang, when the young ruler became oppressive. Through Yi Yin’s guidance, Tai Jia eventually corrected his conduct and became a ruler who cared for his people. Few statesmen in Chinese history were remembered in such a way. After Yi Yin’s death, the Shang royal family honored him with rites befitting a Son of Heaven.
Yi Yin’s life was said to be linked to a heavenly mission. Strange signs accompanied both his birth and his death.
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