Bi Renjie's Complete Biography

Author: Chang Wansheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-07-01
Features: A famous prime minister of the Tang Dynasty, a favorite of Empress Wu Zetian. His words helped Li Xian ascend the throne. In the eyes of foreigners, he is China's Sherlock Holmes. Dutch author Robert van Gulik's series of detective stories featuring Detective Dee made him renowned overseas and celebrated worldwide. During his political career, Di Renjie served with integrity, was benevolent and loved the people. He devoted himself to restoring the Tang Dynasty, especially for his expertise in laws and his ability to make swift judgments. In just one year as the Assistant Judge of Dali, he resolved 17,000 outstanding cases without any errors. He advocated that the law should be consistent and that enforcers should not show favoritism, judging impartially. In investigations, he often delved deep into the truth, earning the reputation of "divine judge." Empress Wu Zetian highly valued him, referring to him as "the Elder Statesman." Upon Di Renjie's passing, Wu Zetian wept and lamented, "The court is now empty!"