In ancient times, Central Plains and the Xiongnu were two powerful forces with distinct cultures and customs. These differences sometimes led to conflicts and prejudices, particularly evident in the saying “rather die than marry a Xiongnu woman” among the people of Central Plains.
Throughout ancient Chinese history, the discrimination between the Han people and ethnic minorities has always been a complex issue. The Han are known for their literary and refined lifestyle, while ethnic minorities like the Xiongnu were often viewed as free-spirited and even unruly. These cultural and ideological differences created a significant divide, causing many customs of the Xiongnu to be rejected by the Han. Consequently, the ancient Han held a strong disdain for the Xiongnu, referring to them as “barbaric land.”
The discrimination between the Han and ethnic minorities has always been a complex issue.
There is a saying that circulated in ancient Central Plains that even if they were beaten to death, men from Central Plains would not marry Xiongnu women. The reason is believed to be that Xiongnu women possess “inherent physical defects” that make them unacceptable to men from Central Plains. Xiongnu women typically lived in border regions, leading a free and undisciplined life, often in close contact with livestock and sheep. Due to facing harsh weather conditions, their skin became damaged, rough, and not as soft and delicate as women from Central Plains.
Men from Central Plains are hesitant to marry Xiongnu women because of their body odor.
In addition to cultural differences, another significant reason why men from Central Plains are hesitant to marry Xiongnu women is the characteristic body odor of Xiongnu women. Historical records indicate that Xiongnu women often consumed beef, mutton, and alcoholic beverages, resulting in a strong body odor that starkly contrasts with the light and refined preferences of Central Plains women.
Political marriages between Central Plains and Xiongnu did take place to maintain peace.
Despite the differences and aversions, political marriages between Central Plains and Xiongnu occurred to maintain peace. These unions often did not resolve the fundamental issues but merely provided a temporary alleviation of tensions. The Xiongnu continued to invade Central Plains with large forces, leading to numerous wars.
One famous example of political relations is the story of the envoy Su Wu during the reign of Emperor Wu of Han. To address the Xiongnu invasions, the Han emperor sent Su Wu to negotiate. However, the Xiongnu detained Su Wu and employed cruel tactics to force him to surrender. Su Wu resolutely refused to yield, maintaining his dignity for 19 years. Ultimately, Su Wu’s perseverance was rewarded when he was released and returned home, being honored by the Han emperor with the title “Meritorious Minister of the Qilin Pavilion.”
The Xiongnu continued to invade Central Plains with large forces, leading to numerous wars.
Su Wu, the Han envoy who was imprisoned by the Xiongnu for 19 years, is a quintessential example of patriotism and resilience. Despite being forced to herd sheep and live in harsh conditions, Su Wu steadfastly maintained his dignity and loyalty to his homeland.
Although during his captivity, Su Wu had a Xiongnu wife, this detail was never officially recorded in history. This omission reflects the Han’s contempt for the Xiongnu. The ancient Han not only viewed Xiongnu women as physically unacceptable but also held their culture and lifestyle in disdain.
Su Wu did have a Xiongnu wife; however, this information is not documented in official historical records but appears in some unofficial sources. This indicates the cautious and prejudiced attitude of the Han towards Xiongnu women.
Another factor contributing to the rejection of Xiongnu women is the differing respect and appreciation for culture. The Han take pride in their culture and traditions, viewing the Xiongnu as barbaric and uncivilized. Therefore, marrying a Xiongnu woman is seen as a degradation of the family’s dignity and honor.
The Xiongnu army.
While the saying “rather die than marry a Xiongnu woman” reflects the cultural differences and prejudices of that time, today, such notions have gradually faded. Through cultural exchanges and greater openness, people are beginning to understand and appreciate the unique aspects of different ethnic groups.
Intercultural marriages are increasingly common, contributing to the fusion and harmony between peoples. The history and culture of each group hold intrinsic value, and mutual understanding will help build a more diverse and civilized society.
From the above reasons, it is clear that cultural, ideological, lifestyle differences, and discrimination led men from Central Plains to refuse to marry Xiongnu women, even unto death. These conflicts not only existed in history but also left a profound mark on the consciousness and customs of the people of Central Plains. The stories of Su Wu’s resilience and the political marriages between the two sides exemplify the complexity and depth of this relationship.
