In the tumultuous Warring States period, with seven powerful states vying for supremacy, a rare and exquisite jade, the He Shi Bi, became the radiant centerpiece of a thrilling tale of wisdom and courage – the well-known 'The Jade Returned to Zhao'. This is not merely an anecdote in diplomatic history but a vivid illustration of the Chinese nation's profound understanding and reverence for jade culture.
The story begins in the State of Chu. Legend has it that Bian He discovered an unpolished jade in Mount Jing. He presented it to the King of Chu twice, only to have it dismissed as an ordinary stone, resulting in the cruel punishment of having his feet amputated. It wasn't until King Wen of Chu ascended the throne that Bian He, weeping for three days and nights at the foot of Mount Jing, finally had his discovery recognized. The king ordered the stone to be cut open, revealing a peerless jade, which was then named 'He Shi Bi'. This jade disc, crystal clear and radiating an inner glow, was hailed as a 'treasure shared by all under heaven', becoming the national treasure of Chu, its value immeasurable, even considered by ancient people to be 'worth cities'.
In 283 BC, King Huiwen of Zhao acquired the He Shi Bi. Upon hearing this, King Zhaoxiang of Qin, coveting the jade, sent an envoy to King Zhao, offering fifteen cities in exchange for it. This was undoubtedly a great temptation, but King Zhao was well aware of King Qin's insatiable greed and feared a one-way transaction. However, refusing would risk Qin using it as an excuse to attack Zhao. Zhao was in a dilemma. At this critical juncture, Lin Xiangru stepped forward, volunteering to take the He Shi Bi to Qin.
Upon Lin Xiangru's arrival in Qin, King Qin received him in the Zhangtai Palace. King Qin took the He Shi Bi, admiring it greatly, but made no mention of the fifteen cities. Seeing this, Lin Xiangru devised a plan. He claimed the jade had a flaw and offered to point it out to King Qin. Once King Qin handed the jade back to him, Lin Xiangru immediately stepped back, leaning against a pillar, his hair bristling with anger. He declared to King Qin: 'Your Majesty wished to obtain this jade and sent a letter to Zhao. King Zhao summoned all his ministers to discuss it, and they all said: 'Qin is greedy, relying on its strength, seeking the jade with empty words. After obtaining the jade, it will probably not give the cities.' Your servant believes that even commoners do not deceive each other, let alone great states! Moreover, Your Majesty, for the sake of one jade, wishes to forcefully give fifteen cities, which is truly unbelievable. Now the jade is in my hand. If Your Majesty tries to force me, my head and the jade will both be shattered against this pillar!'
King Qin was intimidated by Lin Xiangru's righteous demeanor and was momentarily speechless. He knew that if he truly forced Lin Xiangru to his death, he would not only fail to obtain the He Shi Bi but would also bear the infamy of treachery. Thus, King Qin feigned agreement to fast for five days and hold a grand ceremony with nine guests before exchanging the jade. Lin Xiangru seized this opportunity, disguised his attendant, who carried the He Shi Bi, and sent him back to Zhao overnight via a secret path. Five days later, King Qin held a banquet. Lin Xiangru calmly attended, explaining to King Qin that the He Shi Bi had already been sent back to Zhao, and accusing King Qin of breaking his promise. Although King Qin was enraged, he could do nothing but let Lin Xiangru return to his state.
The story of 'The Jade Returned to Zhao' not only showcases Lin Xiangru's wisdom, courage, and patriotism but also profoundly reveals the Chinese nation's unique affection and cultural understanding of jade. The He Shi Bi was not merely a beautiful jade; it carried the dignity, credibility, and integrity of the nation. In the eyes of ancient people, jade was the essence of heaven and earth, a medium through which 'a gentleman compares his virtues to jade'. The warmth, resilience, and subtlety of jade resonated with the character of a gentleman. Therefore, the loss or gain of the He Shi Bi was not just a loss of material wealth but a symbol of national reputation and spirit.
Archaeological discoveries show that jade played an extremely important role in the early stages of Chinese civilization. In Neolithic sites such as the Hongshan and Liangzhu cultures, a large number of exquisite jade artifacts, such as jade dragons, cong, and bi, have been unearthed. These were not only ornaments but also important objects for sacrifice, rituals, and symbols of power. These early jade artifacts silently narrate the deep-rooted connection between jade and the Chinese nation. The legend of the He Shi Bi is a microcosm of the continuous development and evolution of this jade culture, perfectly integrating the material and spiritual values of jade, elevating it beyond the realm of a mere gemstone to the height of a national symbol and integrity.
To this day, 'The Jade Returned to Zhao' remains a shining symbol in Chinese culture. It is not only an idiom but also a eulogy to integrity, wisdom, and courage. It reminds us that true value lies not only in material possessions but also in the inheritance of spirit. And jade, as a unique carrier of Chinese civilization, continues to tell ancient yet ever-new stories with its gentle luster, connecting the past with the future, and nourishing our national spirit.