08/06/2026
Can a man of peace handle the threat of war?
In 500 B.C., Confucius served as the master of ceremonies during a high stakes alliance meeting between the states of Lu and Qi at Jiagu. The officials of Qi underestimated him, believing he only understood rituals and knew nothing of military strategy. They secretly plotted to kidnap the Duke of Lu during the event.
But Confucius was prepared. Guided by his belief that diplomacy must always be backed by military readiness, he ensured defensive troops were close at hand. When the trap was sprung, Confucius protected his ruler and fiercely shamed the plotters into submission.
He did not stop there. Through brilliant negotiations, he forced Qi to return stolen territories to Lu, achieving a historic diplomatic victory.
📜 Read the full story here: https://nurtureland.com.au/confucius-world-episode-20-jiagu/
When Confucius served as the Minister of Justice in the state of Lu...