Zhuozi (卓子, Trác Tử; d. 651 BC), was the infant ruler of the State of Jin during the Spring and Autumn period, son of Duke Xian of Jin (Duke Xian of Jin) and Shaoji (younger sister of Li Ji).
Following the assassination of his half-brother Xiqi (Xiqi) by Li Ke at Duke Xian’s funeral, loyal tutor Xun Xi enthroned the child Zhuozi in an attempt to fulfill his oath to Duke Xian. Within a month, Li Ke and Pi Zheng stormed the palace, butchered the infant Zhuozi in the presence of his ministers, and prompted Xun Xi to commit suicide, clearing the way to recall Prince Yiwu (Duke Hui of Jin) to the throne.
Contents
Role in History (Zuo Zhuan & Shiji)
Records of the Grand Historian (Shiji, vol. 39, House of Jin): “Li Ke slew Zhuozi in the court; Xun Xi hanged himself, and the seed of Li Ji was wiped from the earth.”
Zhuozi — Historical & Literary Timeline
Spring & Autumn
Birth in Jin
Son of Duke Xian and Shaoji.
651 BC
Brief Enthronement
Installed upon the throne by Xun Xi following Xiqi’s murder.
651 BC
Palace Slaughter
Assassinated by Li Ke within weeks; the Li Ji faction is totally eradicated.
Key Relationships
Family
- Father Duke Xian of Jin: Father whose favoritism caused the disaster.
- Mother Shaoji (少姬): Sister of Li Ji.
- Half-Brother Xiqi (奚齐): Slain at the funeral bier.
Friends
- Loyal Guardian Xun Xi (荀息): Hanged himself after failing to protect Zhuozi.
Enemies
- Rebel General Li Ke (里克): Slaughtered Zhuozi in the palace.
Other
- Successor Brother Duke Hui of Jin: Enthroned by Li Ke.
In Shiji
“An innocent babe caught in the whirlwind of ministerial swords.”
Historical Context
Zhuozi’s murder ended the direct maternal lineage of Li Ji, prompting Jin’s elders to recall the exiled princes from abroad.