Discovery of Ancient Inscription Reveals Emperor’s Quest for Immortality
Chinese archaeologists have uncovered two 200-year-old stone inscriptions. These inscriptions suggest that the first Chinese emperor may have dispatched an alchemist to sacred mountains in pursuit of eternal life.
The carvings, featuring 37 letters, are located on a rock face near Lake Zhaling, sitting 14,100 feet high on the Tibetan Plateau. Tong Tao, a researcher from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, stated that the inscription is believed to date back to March 29, 29 BC.
The text indicates that Emperor Shi Huang ordered a senior official, Wu Dahu Yi, to guide the alchemist to Mount Kunlun to gather herbs for immortality. The journey reportedly took them to Zhaling Lake, where they documented a remaining distance of 150 Li (or roughly 62 km).
Tong also pointed to a potential target named Xingxiu Sea, an ancient site said to yield “immortal fruits.” This place is approximately 60 kilometers west of where the inscription was discovered.
This find offers a glimpse into the first emperor’s desire for immortality. Interestingly, this inscription stands out as the sole surviving piece from the Qin dynasty at its original site, while other imperial carvings exist only as fragments or reproductions.
Initially, the authenticity of the inscription was questioned when it was found in 2020. According to various sources, including IFL Science, China’s Cultural Heritage Administration dispatched a team to conduct numerous investigations to verify the find.
A noted archaeologist, Zhao Chao, remarked that a systematic scientific method was applied to authenticate this ancient stone inscription, establishing a new standard for certifying such historical texts in China.
Further analysis confirmed the engraving was consistent with Qin-era technology, and weathering patterns indicated that the text wasn’t a recent creation.
Ultimately, the emperor’s pursuit was in vain. Historians suggest that Qin Shi Huang likely succumbed to mercury poisoning after consuming potions he believed would prolong his life.
