| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 曹正, 曹正, Cáo Zhèng |
| Nickname | 81 - Earthly Restraining Star - 地羁星 (Dìjī Xīng) - Địa Kê Tinh; Cleaver Demon (操刀鬼, Cāodāoguǐ, Thao Đao Quỷ) |
| Other name | Tào Chính |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Huazhou (华州; Hoa Châu) |
| Death Reason | Killed in battle at Xuanzhou (宣州, Xuānzhōu, Tuyên Châu) during the Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp) campaign |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Rescue of Lin Chong, Campaign against Liao, Campaign against Fang La |
Biography and Background of Cao Zheng
Cao Zheng, famously known as the “Knife-Wielding Demon,” is an outlaw hero featured in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Northern Song Dynasty, his narrative illustrates how skilled tradesmen were drawn into rebellion due to economic hardship and institutional corruption.
Originally a butcher in the capital city of Kaifeng, he acquired substantial combat training from Lin Chong. After his meat business and tavern collapsed due to capital loss, he relocated to Mount Erlong and allied with notable outlaws like Lu Zhishen and Yang Zhi. His extensive trade background proved invaluable when he joined the main Liangshan stronghold. Rather than serving solely as a frontline combatant, he managed banquet supplies, abattoirs, and critical food logistics for the brotherhood.
His literary archetype reflects the rugged yet fiercely loyal working-class hero. Renowned for handling cleavers with lethal precision, he contributed both martial readiness and logistical stability to the marshland army throughout their many campaigns.
Key Events in the Life of Cao Zheng
Alliance at Mount Erlong
He devises a cunning scheme to help Lu Zhishen and Yang Zhi capture the mountain fortress, establishing a formidable regional outpost.
Integration into Liangshan
Following the merger of several regional forces, he receives an official post overseeing livestock, banquets, and grocery logistics for the grand assembly.
Final Campaign and Demise
During the bitter southern expedition against the rebel leader Fang La, Cao Zheng tragically falls to a poisoned arrow during the assault on Runzhou.
Key Relationships
- Lin Chong: His revered martial arts mentor and longtime friend from his days in the capital.
- Lu Zhishen: Respected commander at Mount Erlong who valued his practical stratagems and trade skills.
- Yang Zhi: Trusted comrade throughout their shared bandit days and subsequent Liangshan service.
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