| NAME | |
|---|---|
| Chinese Name | 单廷珪, 單廷珪, Shàn Tíngguī |
| Nickname | 44 - Earthly Miracle Star - 地奇星 (Dìqí Xīng) - Địa Kỳ Tinh; Holy Water General (聖水將軍, Shèngshuǐ Jiāngjūn, Thánh Thủy Tướng Quân) |
| Other name | Đan Đình Khuê |
| INFORMATION | |
| Birth Place | Bozhou (亳州; Bạc Châu) |
| Death Reason | Killed in battle at Qingxi (青溪, Qīngxī, Thanh Khê) during the campaign against Fang La (方腊, Fāng Là, Phương Lạp) |
| CAREER | |
| Allegiance | Liangshan Marsh |
| Battles | Defense of Lingzhou, Siege of Daming, Campaign against Fang La |
Biography of Shan Tinggui
Shan Tinggui is a renowned fictional commander depicted in the monumental classic novel Water Margin, set against the backdrop of the Northern Song Dynasty. Popularly revered as the “Sacred Water General,” he earned immense distinction for his mastery of aquatic combat, naval maneuvers, and specialized military formations executed by black-armored vanguard forces.
Originally stationed as a loyal imperial officer in Lingzhou alongside his sworn brother Wei Dingguo, he was dispatched by the imperial court to suppress the growing rebellion at Liangshan Marsh. However, during an intense confrontation, the formidable warrior Guan Sheng outmaneuvered him and unhorsed him in battle. Impressed by Guan Sheng’s chivalry and magnanimity, he surrendered and pledged everlasting fealty to Song Jiang. Within the grand Liangshan assembly, he assumed the 44th leadership position, ranking prominently among the 72 Earthly Fiends.
Literary Significance and Military Archetype
Although the character originates in traditional fiction rather than strict imperial records, his dramatic trajectory exemplifies the classic narrative theme of noble provincial commanders compelled to join righteous outlaws in protest against pervasive administrative corruption. Furthermore, his strategic alliance with Wei Dingguo—the “Divine Fire General”—reflects traditional Chinese cosmological symbolism, representing the elemental duality of water and fire uniting to form an unstoppable military force.
Shan Tinggui — Key Literary Milestones
Battle of Lingzhou
Shan Tinggui deploys his specialized black-clad water units against Liangshan forces. After an aggressive cavalry duel, Guan Sheng captures him and treats him with profound respect, securing his defection.
The Tragedy at Xizhoushan
During the grueling southern expedition against Fang La, he charges into a concealed pitfall trap near Muzhou and suffers a tragic yet heroic demise alongside his closest ally.
Key Relationships
- Guan Sheng: The legendary commander whose tactical mastery and magnanimous conduct persuaded him to embrace the Liangshan cause.
- Wei Dingguo: His lifelong brother-in-arms; the duo fought cohesively as the symbolic tandem of sacred water and divine fire.
- Song Jiang: The supreme chieftain of Liangshan whom he served with unswerving dedication throughout numerous imperial pacification campaigns.
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