In the ancient history of China, Wu Zetian, as the only female emperor, lived a legendary life. Among them, whether the prophecy of the female emperor Wang Wu is real or not has always been the focus of historians and researchers. This article will explore the authenticity of this prophecy and analyze the possible historical motives behind it.

I. The Source of the Prophecy of the Female Emperor Wang Wu

The prophecy of the female emperor Wang Wu can be traced back to historical books such as "Zi Zhi Tong Jian". It is said that during the Zhenguan period of the Tang Dynasty, a Taoist named Li Chunfeng presented a prophecy book called "Tui Bei Tu" to Emperor Taizong Li Shimin. Among the pictures in the book, there is a description of "one leaf falls, two leaves fall, three or four leaves, five or six leaves, all seven and eight leaves fall." Li Chunfeng explained that this was a hint that a woman would become emperor in the future. This woman was Wu Zetian.

II. The Relationship between Wu Zetian and the Prophecy of the Female Emperor Wang Wu

During Wu Zetian's reign, she strongly advocated Taoism, especially the faction represented by Li Chunfeng. Therefore, some people believe that the prophecy of the female emperor Wang Wu may be a fabrication invented by Wu Zetian to consolidate her ruling position. However, this view is not without controversy. In fact, rumors about a woman becoming emperor had already spread widely among the people before Wu Zetian became emperor. Therefore, it cannot be simply attributed to Wu Zetian's personal behavior.

III. Historical Background and Political Motives

When exploring the authenticity of the prophecy of the female emperor Wang Wu, we have to consider the historical background and political motives of the time. During the Tang Dynasty, although Confucianism occupied a dominant position, religions such as Buddhism and Taoism also had widespread influence. In this multicultural background, various prophecies and legends emerged one after another. As a politician, Wu Zetian may have used these prophecies to achieve her own goals.

IV. Views and Research of Historians

Historians hold different views on the authenticity of the prophecy of the female emperor Wang Wu. Some scholars believe that the prophecy was indeed made by Li Chunfeng, but later used by Wu Zetian. Others believe that the prophecy is completely a product of later invention and has nothing to do with Wu Zetian herself. Currently, there is no conclusive evidence to prove the authenticity of this prophecy.

Conclusion

Whether the prophecy of the female emperor Wang Wu really exists or not remains a mystery. From historical data, this prophecy may not be completely invented by Wu Zetian herself, but a phenomenon that emerged against the background of multiculturalism at that time. However, regardless of the authenticity of the prophecy, Wu Zetian, as the only female emperor in Chinese history, has legendary experiences and outstanding achievements worthy of our further research and exploration.

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