As an important minister during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian, Di Renjie can be said to have left a significant mark in the history of the Tang Dynasty. He was in direct confrontation with Wu Zetian, but he was able to escape unscathed and even become a prime minister or chief assistant, making his life rich and colorful. What was the relationship between Di Renjie and Wu Zetian? There are various opinions in history, and one theory suggests that there was an improper relationship between them. Is there any basis for this statement? There is still a reason behind it, otherwise there would not have been such a statement after a thousand years. And this reason is the four words that Wu Zetian said when mourning for Di Renjie after his death.
Di Renjie’s career has also been full of ups and downs. He is not a traditional aristocratic son, but has gradually passed the exam on his own. Since Emperor Gaozong of Tang Dynasty, he has been serving the Li family dynasty and has accumulated numerous merits, even becoming a prime minister. But before the prime minister’s position became popular, he was falsely accused by others and had to pack his bags and become a county magistrate.
But Wu Zetian valued him and recalled him to the court, even protecting him. When someone suggested killing him, she stopped him with all her might. In the later years of Di Renjie’s life, when he had repeatedly wanted to retire and leave the chaos of the court, Wu Zetian stopped him, thinking that he was an important minister of the country and not allowed him to leave. Wu Zetian’s love for him was still with her, and she even granted Di Renjie permission not to kneel and bow down, which was unique in the court and public. That’s not enough. While Wu Zetian did not allow Di Renjie to leave the court to retire and return home, she ordered that all ministers not disturb Di Renjie over trivial matters, which would make him upset.
When Di Renjie passed away, Wu Zetian personally went to offer condolences and said four words, ‘The court is empty,’ which can be described as a heart wrenching gesture. There are so many people in the court, not just him, Di Renjie. Why is the court empty when Di Renjie dies? This is precisely because Wu Zetian regarded Di Renjie as her true confidant, and whenever there was anything, she would definitely ask Di Renjie. Now that Di Renjie has passed away, where can we find someone we can rely on and speak up to.
It can only be said that Di Renjie is a true pillar of the country. Without him, the Tang Dynasty lost a powerful minister, and Wu Zetian also lost a good minister who could facilitate smooth negotiations. Di Renjie comes from a humble background, but his mind is delicate. He can see through all kinds of grievances, speak frankly and advise, and is not tempted. He is full of pride. No wonder Wu Zetian doted on him and entrusted him with important official positions. After he spoke frankly, she did not get angry or lose her temper, but humbly listened to him.
These two people are not only monarchs and ministers, but also close friends.
