Hubbry Logo
search button
Sign in
Leizu
Leizu
Comunity Hub
MainMain
starTalks
arrow-down
MediaMedia
arrow-down
SavesSaves
arrow-down
ChronicleChronicle
arrow-down
TimelinesTimelines
arrow-down
ArticlesArticles
starMore
arrow-down
Sign in
Sign in

Welcome to the community hub built on top of the Leizu Wikipedia article. Here, you can discuss, collect, and organize anything related to Leizu.

No posts have been nominated yet. Go to talks and select post to be placed here.
No news about Leizu has been added yet.Add news
No featured content has been selected yet.Add featured content
Brief
Known For
Legendary Chinese empress credited with the discovery of sericulture (silk production) and the invention of the silk loom. Wife of the Yellow Emperor.
Key Dates and Places
  • Born Place: Xi Ling (believed to be near present-day Sichuan province, China).
Career
  • Past occupations: Empress, credited with developing sericulture and silk weaving.
  • Previous Place of Work: The Yellow Emperor's imperial court and possibly Xi Ling.
Achievements and Recognition
  • Awards: Credited with the discovery of sericulture (silk production) and the invention of the silk loom. Revered as the Goddess of Silk. Her contributions led to a flourishing silk industry in ancient China, which became a major trade commodity. She is also credited with teaching people how to rear silkworms, reel silk, and weave it into clothing.
Main Milestones
Birth in Xiling
Circa 27th Century BCE (Approximate)
Leizu is believed to have been born in Xiling, a region whose exact location is debated but generally placed somewhere in modern-day Sichuan province. While details surrounding her birth are scarce due to the era's reliance on oral tradition and later written accounts, her origins in Xiling are consistently maintained, linking her to a specific geographical area and perhaps, to pre-existing knowledge or traditions related to the local flora and fauna.
Marriage to the Yellow Emperor
Early Adulthood
Leizu's life took a significant turn when she became the wife of the Yellow Emperor, Huangdi, one of the Five Emperors and a pivotal figure in Chinese mythology. This union was not merely a personal connection; it symbolized the merging of different tribal or clan groups, contributing to the formation of a unified Chinese civilization. Her marriage to the Yellow Emperor elevated her status significantly and placed her at the center of political and cultural developments.
Discovery of the Silkworm and Silk Production
Early in Marriage
The most famous legend associated with Leizu is her discovery of the silkworm and the process of extracting silk fibers. The story states that Leizu observed silkworms feeding on mulberry leaves and noticed the strong, shimmering threads they produced. Intrigued, she gathered the cocoons, experimented with unwinding them, and eventually invented the silk reel to weave the fibers into cloth. While the exact details are mythologized, this discovery is attributed to her curiosity and ingenuity and represents the genesis of silk production in China.
Development of Sericulture Techniques
Following the Discovery
Leizu is not only credited with discovering silk but also with developing the rudimentary techniques for sericulture. This included cultivating mulberry trees (the silkworms' food source), raising silkworms, reeling the silk from the cocoons, and weaving the silk threads into cloth. This period represents the transition from observation to practical application, demonstrating Leizu's active role in establishing sericulture as a viable industry.
Promoting Silk Cultivation
During Reign of the Yellow Emperor
As empress, Leizu actively promoted the cultivation of silk throughout the Yellow Emperor's domain. She taught women the art of sericulture, ensuring the widespread adoption of this new skill and the proliferation of silk production. This highlights her role as an educator and leader, contributing significantly to the economic and cultural development of early Chinese society. Silk became a valuable commodity, used for clothing, trade, and even as a form of currency.
Empress and Cultural Icon
Later Years
In her later years, Leizu’s influence extended beyond sericulture. She became a symbol of domestic virtue, hard work, and innovation. Her role as the Yellow Emperor's wife further solidified her position as a central figure in Chinese cultural narratives. Stories about her life and contributions were passed down through generations, cementing her legacy as a legendary empress and the 'Goddess of Silk.'
Media Collections
1
Legendary Chinese empress, consort of the Yellow Emperor and inventor of silk and sericulture

From Wikipedia

Add media collection
Timelines
9

Textile Technology (Hypothetical Development)

The Reel
c. 27th Century BCE
Leizu is credited with inventing the reel for unwinding silk threads from cocoons, making it easier to harvest and use the silk fibers. She is also credited with the invention of the loom.
Loom Enhancements
Subsequent Innovations
Following Leizu's invention of the loom, later generations worked to enhance the loom. This would have improved the weaving process, making more intricate and colorful patterns available for production.

Association with the Yellow Emperor and Rise to Prominence

Marriage to the Yellow Emperor
c. 27th Century BCE (Estimated)
Leizu's marriage to the Yellow Emperor is traditionally presented as a union that brings prosperity and advancement. The Yellow Emperor is credited with numerous inventions and advancements, and Leizu is seen as a key figure in this era of progress.
Influence at the Imperial Court
Reign as Empress (Estimated)
As empress, Leizu would have held considerable influence, though the precise nature of this influence is speculative. The narratives emphasize her practical contributions, particularly concerning sericulture, more so than political maneuvering.

Economic Impact of Sericulture (Implied)

Silk as a Form of Currency
Ancient Times
In ancient China, silk was a valuable commodity often used as a form of currency or payment. Its high value made it a desirable trade item.
Silk Trade Along the Silk Road
The Silk Road
The Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting China with the West, was instrumental in spreading Chinese silk to distant lands. Silk became one of China's most sought-after exports.
Silk Taxes and Imperial Income
Imperial Revenue
The production and trade of silk generated significant revenue for the Chinese empire. Taxes on silk production and trade contributed to the imperial treasury.

Legendary Origins and Early Life (Hypothetical)

Birth in Xiling (Presumed)
c. 27th Century BCE (Estimated)
Tradition places Leizu's birth in Xiling, a region whose exact location is debated but often associated with areas in modern Sichuan province. Her early life would have been shaped by the culture and customs of her people, assuming such a distinct cultural group existed.
Development of Skills and Knowledge
Early Life (Estimated)
Leizu, even as a mythical figure, would likely have been portrayed as possessing skills valued by her community. This might include knowledge of plants, weaving, or other domestic crafts, which ultimately culminate in her discovery related to sericulture.

The Discovery of Sericulture and its Impact

Observation of Silkworms and Cocoons
c. 27th Century BCE (Estimated)
The legend describes Leizu observing silkworms spinning cocoons. This observation is the catalyst for her experimentation and the eventual development of silk production.
Developing Silk Production Techniques
Experimentation and Innovation
Leizu is credited with inventing the reel for unwinding silk threads from cocoons and teaching others how to weave silk cloth. This knowledge significantly contributed to the advancement of Chinese civilization.
Sericulture Spreads Across China
Widespread Adoption of Sericulture
The techniques for silk production, attributed to Leizu, were gradually adopted and refined throughout China. Silk became a valuable commodity, traded both domestically and internationally.

Family Life and Descendants (According to Legends)

Motherhood
c. 27th Century BCE (Estimated)
According to legend, Leizu bore two sons to the Yellow Emperor. The details of their early childhood are largely unrecorded, focusing instead on their later achievements.
Raising Children and Imperial Duties
Later Years (Estimated)
While specific anecdotes about Leizu's day-to-day life as a mother are scarce, the narrative implies that she played a significant role in raising her sons, alongside her imperial duties and the development of silk production.

Main milestones

Birth in Xiling
Circa 27th Century BCE (Approximate)
Leizu is believed to have been born in Xiling, a region whose exact location is debated but generally placed somewhere in modern-day Sichuan province. While details surrounding her birth are scarce due to the era's reliance on oral tradition and later written accounts, her origins in Xiling are consistently maintained, linking her to a specific geographical area and perhaps, to pre-existing knowledge or traditions related to the local flora and fauna.
Marriage to the Yellow Emperor
Early Adulthood
Leizu's life took a significant turn when she became the wife of the Yellow Emperor, Huangdi, one of the Five Emperors and a pivotal figure in Chinese mythology. This union was not merely a personal connection; it symbolized the merging of different tribal or clan groups, contributing to the formation of a unified Chinese civilization. Her marriage to the Yellow Emperor elevated her status significantly and placed her at the center of political and cultural developments.
Discovery of the Silkworm and Silk Production
Early in Marriage
The most famous legend associated with Leizu is her discovery of the silkworm and the process of extracting silk fibers. The story states that Leizu observed silkworms feeding on mulberry leaves and noticed the strong, shimmering threads they produced. Intrigued, she gathered the cocoons, experimented with unwinding them, and eventually invented the silk reel to weave the fibers into cloth. While the exact details are mythologized, this discovery is attributed to her curiosity and ingenuity and represents the genesis of silk production in China.
Development of Sericulture Techniques
Following the Discovery
Leizu is not only credited with discovering silk but also with developing the rudimentary techniques for sericulture. This included cultivating mulberry trees (the silkworms' food source), raising silkworms, reeling the silk from the cocoons, and weaving the silk threads into cloth. This period represents the transition from observation to practical application, demonstrating Leizu's active role in establishing sericulture as a viable industry.
Promoting Silk Cultivation
During Reign of the Yellow Emperor
As empress, Leizu actively promoted the cultivation of silk throughout the Yellow Emperor's domain. She taught women the art of sericulture, ensuring the widespread adoption of this new skill and the proliferation of silk production. This highlights her role as an educator and leader, contributing significantly to the economic and cultural development of early Chinese society. Silk became a valuable commodity, used for clothing, trade, and even as a form of currency.
Empress and Cultural Icon
Later Years
In her later years, Leizu’s influence extended beyond sericulture. She became a symbol of domestic virtue, hard work, and innovation. Her role as the Yellow Emperor's wife further solidified her position as a central figure in Chinese cultural narratives. Stories about her life and contributions were passed down through generations, cementing her legacy as a legendary empress and the 'Goddess of Silk.'

Legacy and Deification

Worship as the Goddess of Silk
Posthumous Reverence
After her death (assumed, as details are scarce), Leizu was revered as the Goddess of Silk. Temples were dedicated to her, and she was honored by silk producers and weavers.
Perpetuation of the Leizu Legend
Historical Accounts and Mythological Narratives
Leizu's story was preserved through various historical accounts and mythological narratives. These accounts solidified her status as a cultural hero and a symbol of innovation.
Continuing Recognition and Celebration
Present Day
Even today, Leizu is remembered and celebrated in China as the originator of silk production. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence the silk industry and Chinese culture in general. Some scholars and artists have worked to solidify her position as a central cultural figure.

The Geographical Context of the Leizu Legend

Xiling as a Center of Early Sericulture
c. 27th Century BCE (Estimated)
Xiling, Leizu's traditional birthplace, is believed to have been a region where early forms of sericulture were practiced. The fertile lands and favorable climate may have contributed to the cultivation of silkworms.
Expansion of Silk Production Beyond Xiling
Spread of Sericulture Across China
The techniques for silk production, attributed to Leizu, gradually spread from Xiling to other regions of China. Areas with suitable climates and mulberry tree cultivation became major centers for silk production.
Add timeline
Articles
0
Add article
Saves collections
1
Image

Main Sources

Add saves collection
Days in Chronicle
1
1 January, 2600
According to legends, Leizu discovered sericulture, and invented the silk loom, in the 27th century BC. Since the exact date is not known, I used the first day of the year 2600 BC to signify the approximate period.
Add day
Leizu
Illustration of Leizu teaching people to cultivate silkworms.

Leizu (Chinese: 嫘祖; pinyin: Léi Zǔ), also known as Xi Ling-shi (Chinese: 西陵氏, Wade–Giles Hsi Ling-shih), was a legendary Chinese empress and wife of the Yellow Emperor. According to tradition, she discovered sericulture, and invented the silk loom, in the 27th century BC.

Key Information

Myths

[edit]

According to legend, Leizu discovered silkworms while having an afternoon tea, and a cocoon fell in her tea. It slowly unraveled and she was enchanted by it.

According to one account, a silkworm cocoon fell into her tea, and the heat unwrapped the silk until it stretched across her entire garden. When the silk ran out, she saw a small cocoon and realized that this cocoon was the source of the silk. Another version says that she found silkworms eating the mulberry leaves and spinning cocoons. She collected some cocoons, then sat down to have some tea. While she was sipping a cup, she dropped a cocoon into the steaming water. A fine thread started to separate itself from the silkworm cocoon. Leizu found that she could unwind this soft and lovely thread around her finger.

She persuaded her husband to give her a grove of mulberry trees, where she could domesticate the worms that made these cocoons. She is attributed with inventing the silk reel, which joins fine filaments into a thread strong enough for weaving. She is also credited with inventing the first silk loom. It is not known how much, if any, of this story is true, but historians do know that China was the first civilization to use silk. Leizu shared the art of silk with all of China and even other countries later on.

Leizu Temple in China

She is a popular object of worship in modern China, with the title of 'Silkworm Mother' (蠶奶奶; Cán nǎinai).[1]

Leizu had two known sons with the Yellow Emperor named Shaohao and Changyi, with the latter the father of Zhuanxu. Zhuanxu's uncles and his father, the sons of Yellow Emperor, were bypassed and Zhuanxu was selected as heir.[2]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Fan Lizhu, "The Cult of the Milkworm Mother as a Core of a Local Community Religion in a North China Village: Field Study in Zhiwuying, Baoding, Hebei," The China Quarterly No. 174 (Jun. 2003), 360.
  2. ^ Asiapac Editorial (2006). Great Chinese emperors: tales of wise and benevolent rule (revised ed.). Asiapac Books Pte Ltd. p. 9. ISBN 9812294511. Retrieved 2012-04-04.

Further reading

[edit]
  • Kuhn, Dieter (1984). "Tracing a Chinese Legend: In Search of the Identity of the 'First Sericulturalist.'" T'oung Pao 70: 213–45.
Hub tags
#china#chinese#historical#deity#origin#legendary#empress#person#silk#woman
Talks
Go to talks
#general is a chat channel to discuss anything related to Leizu.
Be first to write something in #general.
Inside hub
Legendary Chinese empress, consort of the Yellow Emperor and inventor of silk and sericulture

From Wikipedia

This is a community hub built on top of the Leizu Wikipedia article. Here, you can discuss, collect, and organize anything related to Leizu. The purpose of the hub is to connect people, foster deeper knowledge, and help improve the root Wikipedia article.
Add your contribution
Add Media Add Media Collection Add Save Add Saves Collection Add Timeline Add Day Description Add Article Add Hub Tags
Inside hub
Legendary Chinese empress, consort of the Yellow Emperor and inventor of silk and sericulture

From Wikipedia

This is a community hub built on top of the Leizu Wikipedia article. Here, you can discuss, collect, and organize anything related to Leizu. The purpose of the hub is to connect people, foster deeper knowledge, and help improve the root Wikipedia article.
Add your contribution
Add Media Add Media Collection Add Save Add Saves Collection Add Timeline Add Day Description Add Article Add Hub Tags
Talks
Go to talks
#general is a chat channel to discuss anything related to Leizu.
Be first to write something in #general.
Inside hub
Legendary Chinese empress, consort of the Yellow Emperor and inventor of silk and sericulture

From Wikipedia