Every year during sacrifices, we see tombstones in many places. This is a rural custom and culture that has been passed down for hundreds of years. We will often see the words "Gu, Xian, Kao, Heir" on these tombstones. If you don't have a serious understanding of this culture or have read the history of this aspect, you may find it very confusing. In fact, the words "Gu, Xian, Kao and Hei" respectively represent the identity of the tomb owner and the relationship with the person who set up the monument.
First of all, let’s talk about the word "gu". "Gu" means death. Such a word simply and clearly describes the reason for erecting the monument. It also expresses the living's longing for the deceased. This word is relatively common on tombstones.
Then we say the word "Xian". The word "Xian" is a word that needs to be used with caution, because it means that the owner of this tomb has no living elders in the world. His elders have died before him, and he only has children and descendants in this world. . Therefore, you must be careful when using this word, otherwise it will be disrespectful and slanderous to your elders.
Finally, we talk about the two words "kao" and "妣". These two words are actually related to a certain extent. In fact, the word "kao" refers to the father, and "妣" refers to the mother. These two words actually explain that this is a monument erected by the children of the tomb owner for their parents. They also use one word to explain a kind of kinship, which is very subtle. Nowadays, because many people do not understand these two words, they are also replaced by "father" and "mother", which will be more intuitive.
A tombstone is a very solemn object that records some relationships and identities in a small place. It is also a manifestation of art and culture.