Zhang Qing (102)

Trương Thanh

NAME
Chinese Name张青, 張青, Zhāng Qīng
Nickname102 - Earthly Shape Star - 地刑星 (Dìxíng Xīng) - Địa Hình Tinh; Vegetable Gardener (菜園子, Càiyuánzǐ, Thái Viên Tử)
Other nameTrương Thanh
INFORMATION
Birth PlaceMengzhou (孟州; Mạnh Châu)
Death ReasonKilled in battle at Qingxi (青溪, Qīngxī, Thanh Khê) during the campaign against Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp)
FAMILY
Spouse
CAREER
AllegianceLiangshan Marsh
BattlesDefense of Cross Bridge Inn, Battle of Liangshan Marsh, Campaign against the Liao Dynasty, Fang La Campaign

Biography of Zhang Qing (102) & Historical Record

Zhang Qing (102), nicknamed the ‘Vegetable Gardener’ (菜园子), is a memorable hero set during the Northern Song Dynasty in the classic novel Water Margin. Originally working as a vegetable gardener at Baoguo Temple, he was forced into exile after accidentally killing a monk during a heated brawl. He later established a strategic residence at Cross Slope (十字坡, Shizi Po) alongside his formidable wife, Sun Erniang. Together, they ran a notorious inn that covertly drugged corrupt travelers and predatory officials, while upholding an outlaw code of chivalry that spared upright wanderers, monks, and prisoners.

Although situated in Song folk legends, his persona embodies the timeless archetype of the resourceful bandit-rebel. His mastery over covert operations, disguise, and tactical deception allowed him to thrive on the chaotic fringes of imperial authority.

Zhang Qing (102) — Literary Timeline

Chapter 17

The Alliance at Cross Slope

Zhang Qing encounters the formidable monk Lu Zhishen at his inn. Recognizing each other’s noble spirit, they forge a lasting bond of sworn brotherhood.

Chapter 31

Ascending Liangshan Marsh

Zhang Qing and Sun Erniang formally join the Liangshan stronghold, taking charge of intelligence gathering and reconnaissance for the rebel forces.

Chapter 119

The Fall at Yuqing Palace

During the grueling campaign against Fang La, Zhang Qing bravely falls in battle at Yuqing Palace, completing his heroic sacrifice for the brotherhood.

Key Relationships of the Liangshan Outlaw

  • Sun Erniang (孙二娘): His fiercely capable wife and operational partner, famously known as the ‘Female Yaksha’.
  • Lu Zhishen (鲁智深): A sworn brother and key ally who facilitated his transition to the Liangshan brotherhood.
  • Song Jiang (宋江): The paramount chieftain of Liangshan whom he served with unwavering loyalty until his demise.

As an essential intelligence operative, Zhang Qing (102) maintained deep bonds with the Liangshan champions and remains an enduring figure of martial folklore.

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