But in a society deficient in efficient commercial regulations, it was not easy for just a few people to achieve great success in their business. What held Shanxi merchants together and made them a strong force was their common adoration of Guan Yu, a respected general of the State Shu in the Three Kingdoms period (AD 220-280). In the commercial halls established by Shanxi merchants, a place to worship Guan Yu could always be found. They adored Guan Yu not simply for his military talents but for his loyalty and honesty, which were two crucial virtues for doing business.
Wang Xian was a wealthy Shanxi merchant, who once went home to visit his family after succeeding in a business venture. When he discovered the fraudulent business practices of his family members, he brought all of them to the Guan Yu Temple and examined their measuring rods in front of the image of Guanyu.
In his later years, Wang ascribed his success in business to four Chinese characters "Yi Yi Zhi Li", meaning being loyal and honest was more important than making money. Wang's words had a great influence on many Shanxi merchants. They began to regard doing business as no less important than being scholars or officials.
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