Yan Ziling's Reclusive Legacy

Yan Ziling, a native of Kuaiji during the Eastern Han Dynasty, shared a profound friendship with Liu Xiu, Emperor Guangwu of Han. Although he was part of Liu Xiu's efforts in establishing the Eastern Han Dynasty, Yan Ziling harbored no interest in political ambitions. When Liu Xiu ascended the throne, Yan Ziling changed his name and identity to embrace a life of seclusion. Emperor Guangwu deeply admired Yan Ziling's integrity and talents, wishing to enlist his aid in governance. Artists were dispatched to create Yan Ziling's portrait, which was then posted far and wide in search of him. Subsequently, reports from the state of Qi indicated a man fishing in marshes while clad in a sheepskin robe. Liu Xiu suspected this was Yan Ziling and promptly dispatched envoys bearing carriages and gifts to invite him. Despite these efforts, Yan Ziling consistently declined, choosing to remain in seclusion. Emperor Guangwu later conferred the title of Adviser upon Yan Ziling, yet he remained resolute in his refusal to accept any official appointments. Instead, he found solace along the banks of the beautiful Fuchun River at the foot of Fuchun Mountain, where he embarked on a life of fishing. Generations later, this spot where he practiced his angling pursuits came to be known as Yanling Weir. In the seventeenth year of the Jianwu era (41 AD), Emperor Guangwu extended another invitation for him to serve in the court as an advisor. However, Yanzi Ling's stance remained unwavering as he declined once again. Yan Ziling's reclusive life spanned until he passed away at the age of eighty. Over time, Yan Ziling became a spiritual icon among Chinese literati. Yan Ziling Fishing Platform evolved into a spiritual sanctuary for these literati. Undoubtedly, Fan Zhongyan played a pivotal role in amplifying Yan Ziling's influence. During the first year of Jingyou in Emperor Renzong's reign (1034), while serving as the magistrate of Muzhou (Tonglu County), Fan Zhongyan deeply admired Yan Ziling's virtues. He spearheaded the construction of Yan Ziling's temple. Moreover, Fan Zhongyan composed the "Record of Yan Ziling's Temple in Tonglu County," expressing profound respect for Yan Ziling and aspiring to use his story as a beacon of moral guidance for future generations. This narrative aimed to encourage rectitude and fortitude.

Address: Fuchunjiang Town, Tonglu County