← Explore on the interactive map

Yao Guangxiao

Type Figure Region China Time 1335–1418 Also known as Daoyan、Chan Master Daoyan、Monk of Yan、Black-robed Chancellor

Yao Guangxiao (1335–1418), style name Guangxiao, sobriquet Daoyan, from Changzhou in Suzhou, was a renowned monk, strategist, and litterateur of the …

Timeline

  1. 1348–1370Changzhou, Suzhou · SuzhouYao Guangxiao was tonsured in Suzhou in youth, taking the dharma name Daoyan, studying Confucian, Buddhist, and Daoist texts as well as military books and astronomy, famed in the sangha for his learning, gradually turning from otherworldly concerns to the affairs of the realm.
  2. 1371–1399Beiping · Northern ZhiliDuring the Hongwu era Daoyan was assigned to accompany Prince Yan Zhu Di to his fief in Beiping, becoming his most important adviser, secretly urging him to raise troops for the throne, and helping plan Jingnan's military and propaganda strategies.
  3. 1399–1418Beijing · Northern ZhiliAfter Jingnan's success he was made Junior Preceptor to the Crown Prince, keeping his hair without completing tonsure, participating in major state affairs such as moving the capital to Beijing and compiling the Yongle Dadian; though without the formal title of chancellor, he truly held the reins of deliberation, called the black-robed chancellor.

Sources