Hong Yao

Hong Yao was one of five major ministers for King Wen and King Wu of Zhou during the Predynastic Zhou, Battle of Muye, and Western Zhou periods of Chinese history.

Name Excavated texts, such as Chenliang , have given Hong Yao's name as Nangong Yao , though whether these are the same person is under slight debate given evidence from bronze inscriptions on Bianzhong bells.

Traditional historiography Hong Yao served King Wen of Zhou during a tumultuous time in the Late Shang period, and was one of five ministers held in especially high esteem; the others were San Yisheng, Tai Dian, Nangong Kuo, and Guo Shu . However, this varies by account.

Eventually, King Wen died, and King Wu of Zhou would take his place, still continuing the plot to overthrow Di Xin. Hong Yao submitted to King Wu and continued his service. Eventually, King Wu was ready to sack Shang, and, together with his ministers, led a fierce battle at the Battle of Muye and defeated Di Xin, bringing his dynasty to an end. Hong Yao and the other four ministers flanked King Wu as he made a sacrifice at the Shang shrine. He was also ordered by King Wu to seal the tomb of Bi Gan, who had allegedly been killed by Di Xin, though this is disputed.