Xun Zu

Xun Zu (258322) was an official of the Jin dynasty (266–420). He was the younger brother of Xun Fan, the head of the provisional government in the Henan region during the fall of Western Jin. Xun Zu succeeded his brother after the latter's death in 313, before he was eventually driven out by the Han-Zhao general, Shi Le and fled to the south, where he joined the new Eastern Jin government.

Life Xun Zu was from the prestigious Xun clan of Yingchuan as the son of the Minister of Works, Xun Xu. When he was 20 years old, he met the Grand Commandant, Wang Yan, who praised him "elegant and refined". Xun Zu began his career as a Left Assistant in the Office of the Grand Tutor and Retainer to the Crown Prince. He was later invited by the Minister of Works, Wang Hun to become an Assistant Officer of the Household and was further promoted to Chief Clerk of the Left. Afterwards, he served as Zhongshuzi to the Crown Prince and Administrator of Xingyang Commandery.

In 300, the Prince of Zhao, Sima Lun rose to power as Prime Minister after overthrowing Empress Jia and taking control over Emperor Hui of Jin. To enhance his reputation and improve his standings, he endorsed several exemplary and influential figures within his territory, such as Xun Zu, who he assigned as his Right Chief Clerk. The following year, when he usurped the throne, he made Xun Zu a Palace Attendant.

In 313, Sima Ye ascended the throne (posthumously known as Emperor Min) while Xun Fan died in Kaifeng, leaving Xun Zu as the new head of their government. In 314, through imperial decree, Xun Zu was appointed Minister over the Masses and Left Supervisor of the Masters of Writing while retaining his old positions and inheriting Xun Fan's authority over all provinces and commanderies. His peerage was also elevated to Duke of Linying County, while his mother was made Grand Lady and an heir apparent was established for him. At the time, through Sima Rui's authority, he was made Chief Controller of military affairs in Si province and Regular Mounted Attendant while his other titles remained unchanged. Xun Zu was also appointed Prefect of the Masters of Writing, but he submitted a memorial declining the position.

In 322, Xun Zu was selected as the new Grand Commandant and Grand Guardian of the Heir Apparent, but died before he could accept the offices. He was given the posthumous name of Yuan, and he was succeeded by his son, Xun Yi (荀奕).