Pei Xuan

Bùi Tuyên

NAME
Chinese Name裴宣, 裴宣, Péi Xuān
Nickname47 - Earthly Upright Star - 地正星 (Dìzhèng Xīng) - Địa Chính Tinh; Iron-Faced Judge (鐵面孔目, Tiěmiàn Kǒngmù, Thiết Diện Khổng Mục)
Other nameBùi Tuyên
INFORMATION
Birth PlaceLingzhou (凌州; Lăng Châu)
Death ReasonAppointed chief justice in the Ministry of Justice and lived to old age
CAREER
AllegianceLiangshan Marsh
BattlesCampaign against Liao, Campaign against Tian Hu, Campaign against Wang Qing, Campaign against Fang La

Biography of Pei Xuan and Historical Context

Pei Xuan was a judicial clerk in Jingzhao Prefecture during the Northern Song Dynasty, celebrated for his uncompromising integrity, legal expertise, and strict adherence to justice. His unyielding stance earned him the enduring moniker “Iron-Faced Official” (Tie Mian Kong Mu). Despite his devotion to the rule of law, corrupt magistrates framed him with false allegations, resulting in a harsh sentence of exile to distant Shamen Island.

While en route to exile, his escort passed near Yinma River. There, bandit chieftains Deng Fei and Meng Kang ambushed the transport, rescued him, and convinced him to assume leadership of their stronghold due to his wisdom and fairness. Later, inspired by tales of noble outlaws in the classic novel Water Margin, he guided his entire band to mount a union with the famous heroes gathered at Liangshan Marsh.

Pei Xuan — Literary Timeline

Chapter 44

Arrival at Liangshan

He joins the Liangshan ranks alongside his loyal lieutenants after meeting the swift scout Dai Zong, pledging his administrative mastery to the brotherhood.

Chapter 71

The Grand Gathering

During the grand muster of the 108 Stars of Destiny, he is ranked 47th overall and designated as the chief magistrate overseeing discipline, rewards, and penal codes across the stronghold.

Chapter 119

Post-Rebellion Life

Following the brutal military campaigns against Fang La, Pei Xuan survives intact. Declining imperial court honors and civil positions, he chooses to retire peacefully to his native prefecture alongside his closest comrades.

Key Relationships

  • Deng Fei: A devoted sworn brother who spearheaded the daring rescue at Yinma River.
  • Song Jiang: The grand leader whom he faithfully served by instituting military regulations and maintaining order.
  • Dai Zong: The emissary who mediated his seamless transition into the Liangshan brotherhood.

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