In ancient times, why was the son-in-law jokingly called the "inverted door"?
The term "son-in-law" was widely discussed during the hit TV series "Son-in-law", and many people were curious about the origin and meaning of the title.
People have ** Is the status of the ancient son-in-law as high as the TV series deduces, and can he really become the "male host" of the family?
There are two theories about the origin of the word son-in-law, one is mentioned in the Hanshu Yan Zhu Biography that people may mortgage their boys to wealthy families in exchange for food and clothing, and these mortgaged children are called sons.
When there is enough money to redeem the child, a certain amount of interest will be accrued.
Another theory is that the poor can move their adult sons to other families in exchange for financial assistance.
The status of sons-in-law was not high, especially in the pre-Qin period, they were confined to the lowest level of society, and they could not hold official positions and could not divide the land.
The policy at that time clearly stated that there were restrictions on the status of sons-in-law.
When the army is needed, the son-in-law may be forcibly conscripted into the army, and may even face the test of life and death.
However, there are exceptions in history, such as Li Bai and Zuo Zongtang.
Li Bai was a famous poet of the Tang Dynasty, and because his family was wealthy but unable to participate in the imperial examination, he eventually became "the strongest son-in-law of the Tang Dynasty".
Zuo Zongtang was a famous general of the Qing Dynasty, and due to family changes, he became "the strongest son-in-law of the Qing Dynasty".
These two sons-in-law stand out because they both have outstanding talents and abilities, and are respected and supported by their wives and families.
Why is the son-in-law jokingly called the "inverted door"?
This title vividly depicts the situation of the son-in-law. In ancient times, slots for wooden doors were installed indoors, and at night the security of the home was ensured by inserting beams.
If the slot is installed outdoors and then inserted into the horizontal log, it forms an "inverted door", symbolizing that the son-in-law is locked up in the house and has lost his freedom.
The term is often derogatory, implying a low status in the family and a lack of autonomy.
In ancient society, the status of a son-in-law was low, but an individual's ability and hard work could also change fate.
The historical Li Bai and Zuo Zongtang are vivid examples, who rose to prominence in difficult times and eventually became highly respected figures.
It also reminds us that no matter what the circumstances, improving our talents is the key to changing our lives.