During the peaceful reign of Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, a young farmer named Xue Rengui lived in Longmen, a village in modern-day Hejin, Shanxi. Though he was skilled in martial arts and archery, he struggled to escape the grip of poverty. Desperate for change, he considered relocating his family’s ancestral tomb, hoping to improve the family’s fortune through feng shui.
His wife, Lady Liu, quickly intervened. “You possess exceptional talent,” she reasoned, “but success depends on the right opportunity. The emperor is now personally leading a campaign against Goguryeo and recruiting brave warriors. Why not seize this rare chance to make a name for yourself on the battlefield? Once you return home in triumph, you can move the tomb with honor.”
Her words struck a chord. Inspired by her insight, the young man joined the imperial army under General Zhang Shigui. This decision transformed not only his fate, but also the destiny of the Tang Empire. Xue Rengui would soon rise as one of the most celebrated generals in Chinese history.
A single battle forges a legend
Xue Rengui’s first battle proved his extraordinary potential as the Tang army advanced into Liaodong. Unexpectedly, the Goguryeo army surrounded a Tang general, and the situation was critical. Xue charged into the enemy ranks alone to rescue him without saying a word. He cut off the enemy general’s head and tied it to his saddle.
His swift and fearless assault left the Goguryeo soldiers stunned. Whispers spread through their ranks, claiming a heavenly warrior had descended. Gripped by fear, they retreated in disarray. It was a decisive victory — and Xue Rengui had earned his first taste of fame.
The white-robed warrior stands apart
The campaign continued to Anshi City, where Goguryeo amassed over 200,000 troops, stretching their encampments for miles along the mountains. Eager to prove himself, Xue Rengui volunteered to lead the vanguard.
In his quest to stand out, he made an unusual choice. While the elite soldiers of the imperial “Black Armor Army” wore dark battle gear, Xue Rengui donned an immaculate white robe. He rode out alone under a clear sky, with thunder rumbling in the distance. Gripping a long halberd and wearing twin bows at his waist, he challenged the enemy with a thunderous roar.
Charging through enemy lines like a whirlwind, he cut down anyone who dared to stand in his way. Inspired by his audacity, the Tang forces followed, ultimately claiming victory in the famed Battle of Zhu Bie Mountain. The Tang army reportedly killed over 20,000 enemy soldiers, marking one of the most spectacular successes of Emperor Taizong’s first eastern campaign.
Earning the emperor’s trust
Xue Rengui’s striking figure — his spotless white robe slicing through the dust and chaos of battle — caught the emperor’s eye. Watching from afar, Emperor Taizong asked: “Who is that white-robed warrior leading the charge?” When his attendants answered: “That is Xue Rengui,” the emperor immediately summoned him for an audience.
Despite his humble origins, Xue Rengui was promoted on the spot. Taizong rewarded him with fine horses, silk, and the title of Field General. It was a turning point in Xue Rengui’s life. He had found not only his battlefield, but also a discerning ruler who recognized his worth.
On the journey home, Emperor Taizong called Xue Rengui to his side and spoke with heartfelt admiration. “My generals are aging. I need younger leaders to command the troops. You are the perfect candidate! I am not celebrating the conquest of Liaodong as much as I am celebrating the discovery of a great general like you.”
From that moment on, Xue Rengui no longer fought merely for personal glory. He now carried the emperor’s trust and the weighty responsibility of safeguarding the Tang Empire.
Loyalty tested by flood and fire
Emperor Taizong’s faith in Xue Rengui was unwavering. He was soon promoted to the position of Senior Commander of the Palace Guard and entrusted with guarding the Xuanwu Gate, a critical entrance to the imperial palace. He held this post well into the reign of Emperor Gaozong, proving his dedication time and again.
While Emperor Gaozong was staying at the Wannian Palace one night, a sudden downpour triggered a devastating flash flood. As floodwaters surged toward the Xuanwu Gate, panic spread among the guards. Many abandoned their posts to save themselves.
But Xue Rengui stood firm. “How can soldiers flee while the emperor faces danger?” he thundered, rallying the troops. Ignoring the rising waters, he climbed the gate and shouted toward the palace with all his might, sounding the alarm.
His warning gave Gaozong just enough time to escape before the flood engulfed the palace. Deeply moved, the emperor declared: “But for your cry, I would have perished. Now, I truly understand the value of loyal subjects!” In gratitude, Gaozong gifted Xue Rengui his own prized warhorse.
A legacy built on courage and wisdom
Who would have imagined that the man who once toiled as a poor farmer would rise to become the trusted general of two emperors? His wife’s wise counsel had set him on this path, and his own courage had carried him forward.
Xue Rengui’s story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunity. Rather than relying on ancestral blessings, he carved his own path through determination and skill. Together, Xue Rengui and Lady Liu became one of the Tang Dynasty’s most admired couples — an enduring symbol of bravery, wisdom, and unwavering support.
Translated by Joseph Wu
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