Hong Kong Central Library | Empress Wu Zetian's Governance, Religious Beliefs, and Ideology of Loyal Ministers

Description

Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) and the Hok Hoi Library, the “Hok Hoi Lectures on Chinese Wisdom and Life Pursuits” will invite scholars to deliver lectures on cultural insights from Chinese literary classics in simple language, with a view to enhancing public understanding of Chinese culture. Teachers, students and other members of the public are welcome to join us to pass on the heritage of Chinese culture.

Speaker:Dr. SIU Kam-wah, Joseph

Lecturer's Biography

Dr. Siu obtained a First Class Honours Bachelor of Arts in History (1993), a Master of Philosophy in History (1996), and a Master of Arts in Computer-Aided Translation (2004) from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She also received a Master of Christian Studies in Biblical Interpretation (2016) from the China Graduate School of Theology, a Doctor of Philosophy in History and Culture (2001) from Kyoto University, and was selected as a Visiting Scholar at the Harvard-Yenching Institute, Harvard University during 2006-2007. She is currently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of History at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, with research interests including Sui, Tang and Song Dynasties, the transformative period of the Tang and Song Dynasties, history of Chinese imperial capitals, political and diplomatic relations of East Asian countries, bureaucracy and the Ji-nei system, and the history of Christianity in East Asia. Dr. Siu has authored and edited books, book chapters, and numerous academic papers and journal articles. She has been invited for TV interviews on the deeds of Wu Zetian, and has given lectures for secondary school teachers organized by the Curriculum Development Institute of the Hong Kong Education Bureau.

Lecture Abstract

Wu Zetian usurped the Tang throne and established the Zhou Dynasty, implementing authoritarian and oppressive policies, such as eliminating opponents, relocating the capital, reforming the official system, selecting officials through imperial examinations, and recruiting talents. However, these policies also led to corruption, abuse of power, and cruel and greedy officials. In terms of the economy, Wu Zetian promoted agriculture, driving the development of industry and commerce, and ensuring a stable and strong nation. Culturally, she advocated literature and history, glorifying her regime. In foreign affairs and warfare, she had both successes and failures, but managed to maintain the country's power. Regarding religious faith, she first emphasized Confucianism, then favored Taoism, and sought longevity. Wu Zetian was characterized by her cold and suspicious nature, superstitious beliefs, harsh governance style, and the practice of rewarding those who obeyed and punishing those who disobeyed. However, she was also skilled at recognizing talent and managing her subordinates. From the 'Chen Gui' (Guidelines for Ministers) and various edicts she authored, it can be seen that her thought on "loyal ministers" was primarily based on traditional Confucian concepts, encompassing a comprehensive and rich set of values such as unity of ruler and minister, utmost loyalty, adherence to the Dao, justice, offering advice, honesty, discretion, integrity, capable generals, and benefiting others. This reflects a relatively mature level of political thought on imperial-minister ethics during the Wu Zhou Dynasty, which contributed to the Wu Zhou governance.

• The lecture will be conducted in Cantonese. Admission is free. Interested parties may reserve seats via this webpage from 9:00 a.m., 22.5.2026 (Friday) onwards. Limited seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis.

• Participants should be seated 15 minutes before the lecture commences.

• Lecture quota and admission arrangements will be updated from time to time. Please note the latest announcements made by the HKPL and follow the instructions of venue staff.

• The lecture may be recorded in video and/or audio format for review.

• If Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above or a Black Rainstorm Warning Signal or "extreme conditions" announced by the Government is in force 3 hours before the lecture commences, the lecture will be cancelled.