![Shen Nong Image]
Long ago, in a time that predates the establishment of dynasties, the early Chinese believed that the essence of their culture was a gift from divine beings, with rulers of the past regarded as beings that were part divine and part human. Among these demi-gods was a figure dubbed Yandi, whose narrative has survived through the ages.
Yandi is celebrated as a clever and kindhearted emperor, depicted with a human form, the head of an ox, and a transparent midsection. Revered as the solar deity, he held multiple titles. He was honored for his remarkable contributions to agriculture, herbal medicine, and the medical arts, thus earning the titles of the Emperor of Five Grains and the God of Chinese Medicine. However, the moniker that has endured through the centuries is Shen Nong, which translates to the Divine Farmer (神農, shén nóng).
An old tale recounts a visit to Shen Nong by a minster, who sought help for an elderly man plagued by severe suffering. Unfortunately, the old man could not be diagnosed or treated because the medical practices of the time were primitive. He passed away shortly thereafter. This tragedy left a profound impact on Shen Nong, igniting a determination within him to seek out and expand the understanding of medicinal knowledge.
The Path of Self-Discovery
Following this event, Shen Nong ventured into the wilderness each day to collect wild plants, diligently tasting each specimen he found. He meticulously classified the flora by their flavors and characteristics—his unique transparent stomach facilitating this process—allowing him to discern which plants were toxic and which possessed healing attributes. He ultimately cataloged 365 medicinal herbs, alongside various vegetables and the five foundational grains of ancient China: rice, wheat, sorghum, millet, and beans.
Through these explorations, Shen Nong cultivated a deeper comprehension of plant growth, optimal soil conditions for various herbs, and the seasonal cycles affecting their yield. Legend suggests he was responsible for the invention of the calendar, the plow, and the axe. He also devised methods for large-scale food cultivation and preservation, ensuring his people would always have sufficient sustenance. This marked the dawn of agriculture in China, and centuries later, scholars during the Han Dynasty assembled references based on his extensive findings in a text known as The Divine Farmer’s Herb-Root Classic (神農本草經, Shén Nóng Běn Cǎo Jīng).
One might ponder how it was possible for Shen Nong to consume so many experimental herbs without falling victim to poisoning. The truth is, he was poisoned frequently—up to 70 times daily. Fortunately, he had identified a universal antidote capable of neutralizing all poisons: tea (茶, chá).
The Serendipitous Discovery of Tea
According to ancient lore, the discovery of tea can be attributed to Shen Nong himself. One day, while preparing a fire to boil water, some leaves from the kindle accidentally fell into the pot. Given his penchant for tasting new substances, Shen Nong sampled this unexpected infusion as well. By fortunate chance, this decoction not only helped him resist the toxins from the many herbs he had consumed, but also contributed to his longevity, allowing him to live to the venerable age of 120 years.
However, the Divine Farmer was not always able to access his beloved tea. His life tragically came to an end after he ingested what was known as “intestine-splitting grass” (斷腸草, duàn cháng cǎo), a plant whose name reflects its torturous effects. He was unable to consume his antidote in time, resulting in his untimely demise. Nevertheless, the legacy of his selflessness persisted through the vast knowledge he imparted—knowledge that has continued to enhance human well-being through the ages.
The tale of Ancient China illustrates a realm where deities and humans coexisted, fostering a culture inspired by heavenly influences. Thus, the annals of early Chinese history are steeped in mythology. Our “Mythistory” series invites you to delve into the foundational figures in the enchanting legends of China.
