When speaking of Chinese history, it is difficult to avoid the idea of the junzi — the gentleman of virtue. His character and moral integrity, his affections and grievances, and the principles by which he conducts himself have left an enduring mark on history.

During the Spring and Autumn Period, the State of Jin was one of the great powers among the feudal states. Among its veteran statesmen was Qi Xi, who served under four successive rulers: Duke Jing, Duke Li, Duke Dao, and Duke Ping.

Qi Xi held the post of Lieutenant of the Central Army and ranked among Jin’s senior officials. The state maintained six armies, and although his position was below that of the six army commanders, he stood above the other military officials of his rank. At the time, civil and military authority were closely intertwined: the same men might command troops in the field and serve as ministers at court. Qi Xi therefore occupied a high, though not the highest, position in government. His reputation, however, was exceptional.

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