Treasure hunters eyeing ancient tombs often resort to various methods to acquire valuable artifacts. However, when they spot a willow tree growing next to a grave, they quickly abandon their plans.
The issue of tomb raiding has plagued China for decades. The reason lies in the fact that the tombs of emperors, nobles, and officials from China’s feudal era are usually filled with gold, silver, jewels, and other precious antiquities. Tomb raiders aim to steal these artifacts to sell for personal gain.
Consequently, these grave robbers frequently seek clues and employ various tactics to infiltrate the ancient tombs of the wealthy. However, upon discovering a willow tree beside a tomb, they swiftly depart without disturbing the site. This has piqued the curiosity of many as to why this occurs.
Willow trees are planted in front of ordinary people’s graves, indicating that there are no valuable items inside. (Illustrative Photo).
According to researchers, this practice originates from burial customs and feng shui beliefs. Initially, in feudal China, sturdy tombs were constructed to protect the deceased from wild animals and insects that might disturb their eternal rest.
Since the Xia Dynasty, tombs have included burial items. These could be the deceased’s favorite possessions or gold, silver, jewels, and jewelry intended for use in the afterlife. This way, they could enjoy a prosperous and fulfilling life in the afterworld, similar to their life on Earth.
Over time, the Chinese people began to emphasize the feng shui of the tombs. If a tomb is situated in land with good feng shui, it is believed to bring prosperity and well-being to the descendants.
Moreover, during the feudal era, the Chinese paid particular attention to the vegetation surrounding the graves. According to folklore, if the plants around a grave are lush and thriving, it signifies that the descendants of the deceased will lead a good life filled with luck. This belief has led to a careful selection of trees planted in front of graves.
For different social classes, the choice of plants in front of graves varies significantly.
- Those from royal, noble, or official families typically plant cypress trees in front of their graves. This tree symbolizes a gentleman or a person of high social status.
- In contrast, ordinary people plant willow trees in front of their graves. Willows are hardy, easy to grow, and inexpensive.
Thus, when tomb raiders see a willow tree planted in front of a grave, they understand that it is the burial site of an ordinary person, likely devoid of valuable treasures inside. Even if they were to dig, they would find it challenging to uncover any valuable burial items. Therefore, they quickly leave, unwilling to waste their efforts digging without the prospect of finding any treasure.
