Yi Yin: the Mentor of Emperors
Yi Yin (originally named Yi Zhi) was born in Kongsang Village, Qi County, Kaifeng City, Henan Province. After his birth, he was adopted by a chef from the State of Youxin. Yi Yin grew up to be a person of exceptional virtue and talent, eventually earning an appointment as a high-ranking official equivalent to a prime minister under King Tang of Shang. He is widely known by the name Yi Yin due to this role.
From a young age, Yi Yin displayed remarkable intelligence and a thirst for knowledge. His fame spread far and wide for his deep understanding of the governing principles of legendary rulers such as the Three Sovereigns, the Five Emperors, and Yu the Great. King Tang of Shang, deeply impressed, repeatedly sent lavish gifts to invite Yi Yin to join his court. However, the ruler of Youxin refused to release Yi Yin. To overcome this obstacle, King Tang married the daughter of the ruler of Youxin, allowing Yi Yin to accompany her as part of her dowry, disguised as a servant.
Yi Yin became China's first Mentor of Emperors, advising King Tang to govern with virtue, following the examples of the legendary emperors Yao and Shun. Under Yi Yin's guidance, King Tang successfully overthrew the tyrannical Xia King Jie, founding the Shang Dynasty.
Following King Tang's death, Yi Yin served as an advisor to four subsequent Shang rulers. During the reign of King Tai Jia, who strayed from King Tang's established principles of governance, Yi Yin temporarily removed him from power, exiling him to Tong Palace for reflection. Yi Yin, along with other officials, governed the kingdom during this period, a practice historically known as joint governance.
Once Tai Jia recognized his mistakes and showed genuine repentance, Yi Yin personally welcomed him back to the throne, reinstating his authority while continuing to serve as his advisor. Thanks to Yi Yin's patient guidance, Tai Jia reformed his behavior and ruled diligently with integrity, ushering in a period of prosperity and stability for the Shang Dynasty.