Qin Qiong's merit and status
Qin Qiong was one of the founding heroes of the Tang Dynasty, and his name and image were widely spread among the people and became an important symbol in Chinese culture. He was known as "Qin Shubao" and was called "Yang Family General" along with Li Yuanba, Cheng Yanjin and others. He also appears in " Romance of the Three Kingdoms " , and is portrayed as a martial arts and loyal general.
Qin Qiong came from a poor background and had followed Zhang Xutuo, Li Mi and others before joining Li Yuan. He helped Li Shimin win the throne in the Xuanwu Gate Revolution and made great contributions to the Tang Dynasty. After Li Shimin ascended the throne, he did not attack the founding heroes, but bestowed them grace and honor. Qin Qiong was made a pillar state, ranking last among the twenty-four meritorious ministers. He has the highest merit and the most honorable status.
Qin Qiong's forbearance and humility
Despite the highest credit, Qin Qiong was not complacent. He laid down his military power and pretended to be sick. The sons were worried about their father and repeatedly persuaded him to accept medical treatment, but Qin Qiong firmly said, "I am not sick." In order not to worry his sons, Qin Qiong also personally cooked rice, ploughed the fields and farmed the land, showing that he was healthy.
The reason why Qin Qiong poured the medicine was not really sick, but had his own considerations. He knew very well that if he took the power of the army again, his power would be too great, and he would eventually incur the scourge of killing. So he chose to "pretend to be sick" to show that he had no intention of fighting for power. This also avoided Li Shimin's suspicion of him, thus saving his life.
The reason why Qin Qiong was unwilling to accept the gift was also out of dignity for a warrior. Not being able to go into battle is a shame on him, and accepting handouts from others hurts his self-esteem even more. So he would rather feign illness than accept a gift.
Qin Qiong's philosophy of life and wisdom
Qin Qiong's story tells the wisdom and persistence of a founding hero. He gave up the temptation to chase power, chose to live a life of forbearance, and preserved his dignity for heroes in his own way. His wisdom was far superior to that of ordinary people, and he knew the art of abdication, so he was able to retire and eventually live a long life to 80 years old.
Qin Qiong's story also embodies a detached attitude to life. He believes that heroes should be humble and content. Those who seek power often fail to find inner peace. Therefore, he chose to live a life of pure heart and no disgrace. This detached attitude to life has brought his state of mind to a high degree of tranquility.
