Posthumous Name - History

History

The first person named posthumously was said to be Ji Chang, named by his son Ji Fa of Zhou, as the "Civil King", though earlier and perhaps mythological rulers such as Emperor Yao are considered to have posthumous names. All rulers of Shang Dynasty are already known only by their posthumous names, as the historical documents at the time strictly followed the rule. The use of posthumous names was stopped in the Qin Dynasty, because Qin Shi Huang proclaimed that it is disrespectful for the descendants, or "later emperors" to judge their elders, or the "prior emperors" (先帝). The practice was revived in the Han Dynasty after the demise of the Qin Empire. Posthumous names commonly made tracing linear genealogies simpler and kept a blood line apparent. The rule was also followed by non-Han Chinese rulers of Sixteen Kingdoms, Silla, Japan, Kingdom of Nanzhao, Liao Dynasty, Vietnam, Western Xia, Jin Dynasty, Yuan Dynasty and Qing Dynasty. King names of Hồng Bàng Dynasty and Mahan also followed the rule but they are thought to be later work.

Some rulers, such as Wu Zetian, or rebel leaders also had similar style regnal names when they were alive.

Most monarchs inherited the throne and did not give bad posthumous names to the previous monarch. Some names were lengthened or changed by later monarchs. Emperor Aizong of Jin and Chongzhen Emperor had different names from different people. Qin Hui (Song Dynasty) had a good name, was given a bad name, and had the good name later restored. After the Song Dyansty few received bad names. Bad monarchs of the Joseon Dynasty did not receive posthumous names.

It ceased in use after Khải Định, Emperor Sunjong of the Korean Empire and Wang Guoweiwith the abolition of the monarchy, however unofficial posthumous names were given to Crown Prince Euimin and Gu, Prince Imperial Hoeun.