The tale of a loyal warrior scholar now revered as a deity

IN Songjiang, the enduring saga of a scholar named Li Daiwen (1603–1645) lives on.

Li, known for his knowledge and valor, rose to the status of the city’s guardian deity, a symbol of unwavering loyalty and sacrifice in times of turmoil.

He was a scholar and official from the late Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) who fought valiantly against the Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) invasion.

In 1645, Li faced challenges as Qing soldiers expanded southward. Along with local patriots like Shen Youlong, Chen Zilong, Xia Yunyi and Xu Fuyuan, he took a forceful position against the Qing invasion.

Li’s commitment to his motherland was unshakeable. After ensuring the safety of his mother in the countryside, he took on the vital mission of guarding Songjiang Prefecture’s eastern entrance.

When the Qing army captured the western gate, the city’s defenses collapsed.A captain questioned Li about his plans, and he reaffirmed his absolute loyalty to the country and his willingness to say farewell to his family forever.

The captain committed suicide. Li wept as he held the officer’s body.

Li’s family urged him to flee, but following the captain’s suicide, he tried to take his own life too. But the Qing troops managed to capture him alive. He urged his conquerors to spare the civilians.

The people of Songjiang, deeply moved by Li’s sacrifice, honored him as their city god, erecting a statue in his memory.

His birthday, the 14th day of the seventh lunar month, is celebrated with grand temple fairs in Songjiang. A unique local custom emerged: people drink soy milk and eat fried dough sticks during the night of this day, a poignant tribute to a hero who embodied the spirit of loyalty and sacrifice.