Hagiography of the Tenth Courtier of Đồng Mỏ

Embodied in the annals of the Holy Courtiers of Four Palaces within the Mother Goddess religion, the Tenth Courtier of Đồng Mỏ emerges as a stalwart figure, akin to the valiant Eighth Courtier of Bát Nàn. A formidable generalix in the Lạng Sơn region, She assumed governance over the Đồng Mỏ domain, a testament to Her resounding triumphs in the resistance against Ming invaders.

The tapestry of the Tenth Courtier’s hagiography unfolds in myriad versions. Born into the lineage of a tribal chief in Đồng Mỏ, She grew up becoming a martial arts virtuoso. Summoned by Emperor Lê Thái Tổ to combat foreign incursion, the Tenth Courtier rallied the tribes of Đồng Mỏ, marshaled forces, and forged weapons, aiding the Emperor in vanquishing adversaries and alleviating the people’s plight. Endowed with the Emperor’s trust, She was appointed to safeguard the Chi Lăng border provinces.

During the arduous Chi Lăng and Xương Giang Giang battles, the generalix fearlessly led charges on horseback. Legend holds that She played a pivotal role in aiding the Emperor’s forces in beheading Liễu Thăng, culminating in a triumphant resistance. Acknowledging Her valor, the Emperor entrusted the Courtier with governance over the Đồng Mỏ area and the defense of Chi Lăng pass. In times of peace, She guided the populace in forging prosperous lives and provided help to the less fortunate.

Another version suggests that the Tenth Courtier, as guided by the Fourth Mother Goddess of the Mountain, participated in wars as part of the Council of Bắc Lệ. Her ascension anniversary is also the feast day venerating the Bắc Lệ Council, occurring on the 20th day of the Ninth lunisolar month. Following the vanquishment of Liễu Thăng, the Courtier succumbed to exhaustion on the battlefield, etching Her name into the annals of heroic sacrifice.