In ancient China, Confucius and Zuo Qiuming were renowned Confucian scholars. Their doctrines have had profound influences on later generations. However, there has been controversy in history regarding who was older between the two. This article will explore this issue based on historical records.

I. Birth and Death Years of Confucius

Confucius (551 BC - 479 BC), whose name was Qiu and styled Zhongni, was a native of Zouyi in the State of Lu (present-day Qufu, Shandong). According to "Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of Confucius," Confucius was born in the 21st year of the reign of King Ling of Zhou (551 BC) and passed away in the 27th year of the reign of Duke Ai of Lu (479 BC).

II. Birth and Death Years of Zuo Qiuming

Zuo Qiuming (approximately 502 BC - approximately 422 BC), whose surname was Zuo and given name was Qiuming, was a native of Bian in the State of Lu (present-day Sishui, Shandong). The historical records regarding Zuo Qiuming's birth and death years are not entirely consistent. "The Spring and Autumn Annals of Zuo" states: "Zuo Qiuming was a gentleman of Lu." "Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of Confucius" also records: "Zuo Qiuming was a gentleman of Lu." It is thus speculated that Zuo Qiuming might have been born in the 1st year of the reign of King Jing of Zhou (502 BC) and passed away in the 4th year of the reign of Duke Dao of Lu (422 BC).

III. Age Comparison between Confucius and Zuo Qiuming

Based on the above calculations, Confucius was born approximately 98 years earlier than Zuo Qiuming. If we calculate based on the legend that Confucius had his son Kong Li at age 36, Confucius was already a 27-year-old adult when he was born in 551 BC. On the other hand, when Zuo Qiuming was born in 502 BC, he was only around 13 years old and had not yet reached adulthood. Therefore, from the perspective of age, Confucius was indeed much older than Zuo Qiuming.

IV. Conclusion

Although there is some controversy regarding the age of Confucius and Zuo Qiuming, based on current historical records, Confucius was indeed older than Zuo Qiuming. Both Confucius and Zuo Qiuming were outstanding thinkers of the Spring and Autumn Period, and their doctrines have had profound influences on later generations. We should learn from their excellent qualities and wisdom and contribute our strength to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

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