| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 孔亮, 孔亮, Kǒng Liàng |
| Nickname | 62 - Earthly Rampant Star - 地猖星 (Dìchāng Xīng) - Địa Cương Tinh; Solitary Fire Star (獨火星, Dúhuǒxīng, Độc Hỏa Tinh) |
| Other name | Khổng Lượng |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Cangzhou (沧州; Thương Châu) |
| Death Reason | Fell ill and passed away in Hangzhou (杭州, Hángzhōu, Hàng Châu) during the campaign against Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp) |
| FAMILY | |
| Relatives | |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Defense of Mount Baihu, Campaign against the Liao Dynasty, Campaign against Tian Hu, Campaign against Wang Qing, Campaign against Fang La |
Who Was Kong Liang in Water Margin?
Kong Liang (孔亮) is a memorable character featured in the classic Chinese novel Water Margin (Outlaws of the Marsh). Set against the turbulent backdrop of the Northern Song Dynasty, his narrative exemplifies grassroots defiance against corrupt feudal administration. Alongside his elder brother Kong Ming, he ruled the Kong family manor on Mount Baihu before joining the rebellion.
Known by the moniker “Flaming Star” or “Lonely Fire Star”, the young warrior possessed a fiery temper and an unyielding spirit. His fortunes transformed after meeting Song Jiang, who instructed the brothers in martial arts and tactics. When local authorities clamped down on their stronghold, the brothers fled to Mount Erlong to join Lu Zhishen and Wu Song, eventually integrating into the grand Liangshan alliance.
Within the 108 Stars of Destiny, he is ranked 62nd among the Earthly Fiends. He took part in numerous military expeditions, demonstrating steadfast loyalty to the rebel cause through every major campaign.
Role in Literary Context
While the character belongs to folk fiction rather than official imperial annals, his portrayal reflects the turbulent social conditions of the late Northern Song period. His evolution from a headstrong local squire into a disciplined revolutionary commander highlights the novel’s central themes of brotherhood, honor, and martial virtue.
Kong Liang — Literary Timeline
Encounter on Mount Baihu
Kong Liang first meets Song Jiang after a tavern brawl. Recognizing Song Jiang’s nobility, the Kong family hosts him warmly, and Song Jiang mentors the brothers in combat techniques.
Joining Liangshan Marsh
After an assault on Qingzhou, the brothers relocate to Mount Erlong and subsequently merge their forces with the main Liangshan stronghold.
Sacrifice at Hangzhou
During the southern pacification campaign against Fang La, Kong Liang perishes while bravely assaulting enemy positions near Hangzhou.
Key Relationships
- Kong Ming: His devoted elder brother and inseparable partner in battle throughout their outlaw years.
- Song Jiang: Mentor and sworn elder brother who guided his martial training and loyalty to Liangshan.
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