兔死狗烹 (Cook the Dog after the Rabbit is Caught)

The proverb "兔死狗烹" (tu si gou peng), originating from the historical text "史记" (Shijì) by the renowned historian 司马迁 (Sīma Qian), serves as a poignant reminder for all those who serve under a leader or ruler. It cautions against the potential dangers of unwavering loyalty and the false assumption that one's service, no matter how invaluable, will be reciprocated with gratitude or respect.

Through the use of a vivid analogy – hunters cooking and eating their hunting dogs after successfully catching rabbits – the proverb highlights the ruthless disregard for loyalty that can manifest in those who wield power. Just as the dogs are discarded once their usefulness is over, so too can loyal subordinates and advisors find themselves brutally cast aside by the very leaders they have faithfully served.

The historical figure “范蠡” (Fàn Lǐ) provides a striking example of how to navigate the treacherous waters of serving a ruler. As the prime minister of the state of 越 (Yue) during the Spring and Autumn period, Fan Li played a crucial role in helping King 勾践 (Goujian) of Yue regain his kingdom after years of captivity and humiliation at the hands of the state of Wu. However, unlike many advisors who met tragic ends, Fan Li demonstrated remarkable foresight. Recognizing the potential dangers of remaining in a position of power after achieving such a significant victory, he chose to resign from his post immediately after Yue's triumph over Wu. Fan Li's decision to leave at the height of his success, rather than risk falling victim to the king's potential paranoia or ingratitude, exemplifies the wisdom encapsulated in the "兔死狗烹" proverb.

Sīma Qian himself used this proverb to warn 任安 (Ren An), a minister serving under the notorious 汉武帝 (Han Wudi), the Emperor Wu of Han, about the potential perils of serving an untrustworthy ruler. The historian's words proved prophetic in the case of 李斯 (Li Si), a trusted advisor to 秦始皇 (Qin Shi Huangdi), the first emperor of a unified China. Despite Li Shi's instrumental role in establishing the Qin dynasty, he was eventually executed by 赵高 (Zhao Goo), the chief eunuch, after Zhao Gao had used Li Shi to conspire in installing the younger son 胡亥 (Huhai) as the new emperor 秦二世 (Qin Er Shi).

These historical examples serve as a stark warning to all who serve a leader, reminding them to exercise caution and not blindly trust in the leader's loyalty or gratitude. The proverb "兔死狗烹" highlights the importance for subordinates and advisors to be prepared for the possibility that even their most loyal service may be brutally disregarded and discarded once their usefulness is over, or when power dynamics shift.

In a world where power often breeds paranoia and self-preservation, the lessons imparted by this proverb remain as relevant today as they were in ancient times. It serves as a sobering reminder that loyalty is a double-edged sword, and that those who serve must always be vigilant, for the very leaders they have faithfully supported may one day turn against them without hesitation or remorse.

#loyalty. #chineseproverb