This piece has a history of at least 2000 years. According to the 2nd century book Qin Cao (Qin Music Collection), it is based on a story from the Warring States Period. The King of Han had a sword maker executed when he failed to deliver on time a sword he had commissioned him to make. His son Nie Zheng made up his mind to avenge his father's death. He went into the mountains for ten years, learned to play the qin and became a famous qin player, giving performances all over the country. The king heard of his fame and asked him to perform in the palace. Nie Zheng thus realized his long - cherished wish to kill him. Fearing his family might be in danger if his identity were known, he afterwards mutilated his face beyond recognition and committed suicide.

This is considered one of the most important qin pieces.