Introduction
Xing Tian is the most rebellious war god in Chinese mythology, celebrated for his relentless resistance “even after decapitation”. Symbolizing fearless defiance against fate, he is often depicted as a headless, naked warrior wielding a shield (干) and axe (戚). As both a tragic hero from Shan Hai Jing and a modern cultural symbol of resistance, his legend transcends time.
Origin
Xing Tian’s prototype first appeared in Shan Hai Jing·Overseas Western Classic (《山海经·海外西经》), solidified in Huainanzi (《淮南子》). Legend states he was an Yan Emperor general who challenged the Yellow Emperor’s rule. Eastern Jin In Search of the Supernatural (《搜神记》) detailed his transformation into a “nipple-eyed, navel-mouthed” warrior, while Tang Dynasty Youyang Zazu (《酉阳杂俎》) incorporated him into Taoist guardian deities. Modern psychology views his image as reflecting humanity’s collective unconscious of resistance.
Plot Overview
- Power Struggle: Refused to submit after Yellow Emperor defeated Yan Emperor at Banquan
- Celestial Duel: Charged into heaven with shield and axe, battling Yellow Emperor for three days
- Headless Resurrection: After decapitation and burial at Changyang Mountain, continued fighting using nipples as eyes and navel as mouth
- Cultural Legacy: Tao Yuanming’s poem “Xing Tian dances with shield and axe, his fierce resolve enduring forever” became a resistance anthem
Relationships
- Yan Emperor (炎帝): Loyalty to his defeated leader
- Yellow Emperor (黄帝): Archenemy who decapitated him
- Chi You (蚩尤): Fellow Yan Emperor warrior who allied against Yellow Emperor
- Hou Yi (后羿): Yan Emperor’s archer supporting his cause
Literary Sources
- Shan Hai Jing·Overseas Western Classic (《山海经·海外西经》, Pre-Qin): Earliest record
- Huainanzi (《淮南子》, Western Han): Adds “divine rivalry” context
- In Search of the Supernatural (《搜神记》, Eastern Jin): Graphic headless combat description
Folk Festivals & Customs
- Xing Tian Sacrifice (1st day of the 10th lunar month)
- Hunan Yanling County holds headless dance rituals, performers blindfolded to mimic his appearance
- Make “Shield-Axe Cookies” (干戚饼) shaped like his weapons
- Decapitation Festival (Winter Solstice):
- Sichuan regions stage “Xing Tian vs Yellow Emperor” nuo opera to warn against tyranny
Spiritual Significance
Xing Tian embodies eternal resistance against oppression:
- Spiritual triumph over physical annihilation
- Defeated heroes embodying greater moral power than victorious rulers
- Resistance itself as a form of victory
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