Instead of using jade like other emperors and royal family members, Empress Wu Zetian chose to hold a piece of wood in her mouth when she passed away. This decision has sparked curiosity about her reasons.
During the feudal era in China, the burial customs of emperors, consorts, and royal family members were quite complex. Among these customs, it was common practice to place a piece of jade or a pearl in the mouth of the deceased. Emperors like Qianlong and Empress Dowager Cixi followed this tradition. However, Wu Zetian made a different choice.
The piece of wood in Wu Zetian’s mouth served the function of a wooden token.
According to historical records, after her death, Wu Zetian had a piece of wood placed in her mouth instead of jade or pearls like others. Researchers believe that Wu Zetian was the only one to make such a choice. This has led to questions about why this empress chose this path.
Consequently, experts conducted research to shed light on this mystery. Ancient beliefs held that placing jade or pearls in the mouth of the deceased would help them continue to enjoy a prosperous life in the afterlife. Moreover, pearls placed in the mouth were thought to prevent the body from decaying. Did Wu Zetian choose not to follow this custom because she did not wish to continue a royal life in the afterlife and wanted her body to remain intact over time?
Experts suggest that Wu Zetian’s choice, which contradicted common practices, is related to the blank stone tablet in front of her tomb.
Wu Zetian’s life is viewed as having both merits and faults. Throughout her reign, this empress faced a mix of praise and criticism. Thus, before her death, she had a blank stone tablet created for future generations to evaluate her actions. Based on this, the piece of wood placed in Wu Zetian’s mouth after her death may carry a similar significance.
Early Chinese historical texts were written on “wooden tokens” (bamboo slips) and “wooden tablets.” Therefore, the piece of wood in Wu Zetian’s mouth served as a wooden token.
After her death, Wu Zetian held a wooden tablet in her mouth as she transitioned to the afterlife, with the implication of allowing the spirits to judge her. This is considered a testament to the spirit and determination of the only female monarch in Chinese history.
