Also known as Peng Zu. According to the book “You Xue” (Elementary Learning), Old Peng lived during the Tang Dynasty under Yao (China). His real name was Qian Jian, the son of Elder Lu Zhong. Legend says his mother was pregnant for 12 years, and one day her right hip suddenly ruptured, giving birth to six children, with him being the third.
As a child, he was very intelligent. Later, Emperor Yao appointed him to govern Pengcheng. He lived to be 880 years old (some books say Peng Zu lived 800 or 700 years), had 49 wives and 54 children. Due to his longevity, he was known as Peng Zu or Old Peng.
He was a very upright official, wholeheartedly helping the people. Although he held an official position, he often sought solitude to cultivate his character, never allowing fame or fortune to influence him. He served under four emperors: Tang, Yu, Xia, and Shang.
The Master mentioned the above story, meaning that in this world, few people live as long as Peng Zu and still aspire to fame and fortune:
“How many can match up to Old Banh,
For longevity to hold on to opulence?”
(Visiting Phu An Village)
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