Contents
Biography & Historical Record
Hou Jian (侯健, Hầu Kiện) is a fictional character in the classical Chinese novel Water Margin. He is nicknamed ‘Long-Armed Ape’ (通臂猿, Tōngbì Yuán) due to his unique physical agility and long reach. Before joining the outlaws, he worked as a tailor in the city of Huangmen. He was a protégé of Xue Yong (薛永, Tiết Vĩnh), who taught him martial arts. Hou Jian is primarily known for his exceptional craftsmanship in tailoring and his role as the master tailor of Liangshan, where he was responsible for manufacturing flags, banners, and uniforms for the outlaw army.
Role in Romance of the Three Kingdoms
While Hou Jian does not appear in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms—as he is a character from the Northern Song Dynasty setting of Water Margin—he represents the diverse skill sets integrated into the Liangshan brotherhood. His expertise in logistics and craft mirrors the logistical genius often required in military campaigns found in the Three Kingdoms era, such as those overseen by Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮, Gia Cát Lượng).
Hou Jian — Historical & Literary Timeline
Chapter 63
Joining Liangshan
Hou Jian joins the Liangshan Marsh outlaws after helping Xue Yong (薛永, Tiết Vĩnh) and his associates, eventually ranking 71st among the 108 stars.
Campaigns Era
Military Service
He serves in all major campaigns of the Liangshan force, including the subjugation of the Liao and the rebels Fang La (方腊, Phương Lạp).
Campaign against Fang La
Death in Battle
During the final campaign against Fang La, Hou Jian tragically drowns in the Qiantang River during the siege of Hangzhou.
Key Relationships
- Associates
- Xue Yong (薛永, Tiết Vĩnh): His mentor who introduced him to the martial arts and the path to Liangshan.
- Song Jiang (宋江, Tống Giang): The leader of Liangshan to whom Hou Jian pledged his unwavering loyalty and logistical support.
