He died during a hunting trip and his wife later served as regent over his still 11-year-old son, the later Emperor Shengzong.
Yelü Xian succeeded Emperor Muzong in 969 after the latter was murdered by his servants during a hunting trip.
He employed ethnic Han officials in his government, appointing one as the Minister of Southern Affairs and as the Duke of Qin.
At one point, Emperor Jingzong's body became weak and he had many diseases, sometimes unable to stand up during court proceedings.
On 13 October, 982, Emperor Jingzong died due to sickness during a hunting trip in his camp.