老马如老友 新年有新识

Core Insights - The article discusses the historical significance of horses in ancient Chinese culture, particularly focusing on the naming conventions, breeding practices, and the role of horses in society [6][19]. Group 1: Historical Context of Horses - The year 2026 is the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, with the mascot for the Spring Festival Gala being inspired by the Przewalski's horse, the only surviving wild horse species [6]. - The article highlights the importance of horses in ancient China, noting that they were integral to transportation, warfare, and communication systems [19]. Group 2: Naming Conventions - Ancient texts reveal that naming horses was a common practice, with names reflecting their characteristics or qualities, such as "赤兔" (Red Rabbit) and "骓" (Zhui) [8][9]. - The naming of horses can be categorized into three types: exclusive names based on physical traits, names linked to other animals, and names with auspicious meanings [9][10]. Group 3: Breeding and Training Practices - The article discusses the "执驹礼" (Ritual of Horse Handling), which marked the coming of age for young horses, emphasizing the importance of breeding practices in ancient China [17]. - Training methods for horses were sophisticated, with ancient texts detailing various training techniques and the importance of diet and care [13][14]. Group 4: Archaeological Findings - Recent archaeological discoveries, such as the Dunhuang manuscripts, provide insights into the management and care of horses, including their feeding and health [11][12]. - The findings indicate that ancient Chinese society placed significant emphasis on the proper care and training of horses, which were vital for military and agricultural purposes [11][12].