| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 段景住, 段景住, Duàn Jǐngzhù |
| Nickname | 108 - Earthly Dog Star - 地狗星 (Dìgǒu Xīng) - Địa Cẩu Tinh; Golden-Haired Hound (金毛犬, Jīnmáoquǎn, Kim Mao Khuyển) |
| Other name | Đoạn Cảnh Trụ |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Zhuozhou (涿州; Trác Châu) |
| Death Reason | Killed in battle at Nanling Pass (南陵关, Nánlíngguān, Nam Lăng Quan) during the Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp) campaign |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Campaign against Liao, Campaign against Fang La |
Biography & Historical Record of Duan Jingzhu
Duan Jingzhu (段景住), known by the moniker “Golden-Haired Hound” (金毛犬), is a notable fictional figure featured in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin. Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Northern Song Dynasty, he is renowned for being the 108th and final warrior to join the Liangshan Marsh brotherhood.
Originally hailing from Zhuozhou, he earned his living as a daring horse thief along the northern frontier. He stood out distinctively due to his unusual appearance, possessing red-yellowish hair and a light beard that inspired his canine alias. While he lacked the overwhelming martial prowess of frontline generals like Lin Chong or Wu Song, his deep mastery of equine appraisal and northern wilderness navigation made him an indispensable scout for the outlaws.
The Spark of Conflict
His introduction into the narrative marks a critical turning point for the Liangshan band. After obtaining a prized steed known as the “Jade-maned Lion” originally belonging to the Prince of Great Jin, he intended to present it to Song Jiang as an initiation gift. However, the arrogant Zeng family intercepted the prize. This theft triggered a massive military clash between the Liangshan warriors and Zeng Head Village, ultimately leading to the tragic demise of the band’s initial chieftain, Chao Gai.
Literary Timeline in Water Margin
Stealing the Jade-maned Lion
He purloins a rare steed intended for Liangshan, but the Zeng family ambushes him, igniting an explosive feud that alters the rebel leadership.
The 108th Hero
During the Grand Assembly, Duan Jingzhu receives the auspicious Earth Hound Star (地狗星) designation, officially managing livestock procurement and northern reconnaissance.
Tragic Demise
During the southern campaign against the rebel Fang La, he meets a tragic end when his transport vessel capsizes in a violent maritime storm.
Key Relationships of Duan Jingzhu
- Song Jiang: The supreme leader of Liangshan to whom he dedicated his allegiance and offered the legendary steed.
- The Zeng Family: The powerful clan whose seizure of the royal horse ignited fierce hostility with Liangshan.
Significance and Legacy
Despite holding the lowest rank on the roster, his tactical role illustrates how unconventional talents—from horse procurement to covert tracking—proved just as essential to the outlaw stronghold as sheer martial strength.
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