Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Shi Jin (史进, Sử Tiến) is a prominent fictional character in the classical Chinese novel Water Margin. Known by his nickname ‘Nine-Dragon Tattooed Dragon’ due to the intricate tattoos of nine blue dragons covering his body, he is the first of the 108 Liangshan heroes introduced in the novel. Originally the son of a wealthy squire in Huayin, Shi Jin is a skilled martial artist who inherits his father’s estate but abandons a conventional life to pursue his passion for combat and chivalry. His path eventually leads him to join the outlaws at Liangshan Marsh (梁山泊, Lương Sơn Bạc) after a series of tumultuous events, including battles against government officials and local bandits. He is widely recognized for his loyalty, bravery, and his signature weapon, a steel broadsword.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Shi Jin serves as a template for the archetypal ‘young hero’ in Chinese literature—impulsive, honorable, and fiercely loyal to his sworn brothers. While he does not appear in the historical Romance of the Three Kingdoms, he embodies the same spirit of brotherhood and martial prowess championed by figures like Guan Yu (关羽, Quan Vũ).
Shi Jin — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 2
Introduction of the Hero
Shi Jin is introduced as the son of a wealthy squire. He begins his martial arts training under various masters, culminating in his meeting with Wang Jin (王进, Vương Tiến), who refines his fighting technique.
Chapter 58
Joining Liangshan
After various adventures and establishing himself at Mount Shaohua, Shi Jin officially joins the ranks of the Liangshan heroes, ranking 23rd overall.
Final Chapters
Death at Yuling Pass
During the final campaign against the rebel Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp), Shi Jin is ambushed and killed by a volley of arrows at Yuling Pass.
Key Relationships
- Mentors and Allies
- Wang Jin (王进, Vương Tiến): The master who taught Shi Jin his foundational martial arts.
- Lu Zhishen (鲁智深, Lỗ Trí Thâm): A close friend and fellow hero who aids Shi Jin during his time at Mount Shaohua.
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): The leader of the Liangshan Marsh to whom Shi Jin pledges his unwavering loyalty.
