Tonyukuk facts for kids

Tonyukuk (born around 646, died around 726) was a very important leader of the Göktürk people. He was a top commander and a trusted adviser to four different Göktürk rulers, called khagans. These khagans were Ilterish Qaghan, Qapaghan Qaghan, Inel Qaghan, and Bilge Qaghan.

Tonyukuk led many successful battles against other groups in the steppe lands, like the Khitan and the Tang dynasty. Some historians even call him a "kingmaker" because he helped shape who became ruler.

What's in a Name?

Tonyukuk's name in the Old Turkic script is written as t₁-o-ɲ-uq₁-uq₁. People have different ideas about what his name means. One idea is that Tunuk means "clear" or "pure," and uq means "wise" or "well-informed." So, Tonyukuk could mean "owner of deep and pure ideas."

His title, "Bilge," means "wise" or "master." Another idea is that his name means "first treasure." This is because his Chinese name, Yuanzhen, also means "first treasure."

Tonyukuk's Life Story

Early Years and Joining the Turks

Tonyukuk was born around 646 near the Tuul River. He belonged to the Ashide tribe. In 679, he left the Tang dynasty area and joined Elteriš in 681. Elteriš was working to create a new Turkic empire.

Gold belt ornaments found at Tonyukuk's ritual place in Tov, Erdene.

Tonyukuk himself wrote about his early life:

Chinese records say that Tonyukuk, known as Yuanzhen, knew a lot about Chinese traditions. He also knew about weak spots in their borders and walls. He was once in charge of some surrendered groups but was later removed and jailed.

Helping Elteriš Build an Empire

Tonyukuk was very important in building the Turkic Khaganate, even though they lost some early battles. In 687, Elteriš and Tonyukuk attacked the Tang dynasty again. The Tang empress, Wu Zetian, sent her generals to fight them. The Tang forces managed to defeat the Turks at Huanghuadui, making them retreat.

Serving Qapγan Khagan

The Tonyukuk inscriptions, which tell Tonyukuk's story.

In 703, Tonyukuk was sent by the khagan to propose a marriage to the Wu Zhou dynasty. Empress Wu Zetian agreed to the marriage. However, when Emperor Zhongzhong became emperor, the political situation changed, and the marriage was canceled.

In 712, Tonyukuk led the Turkic army in the Battle of Bolchu. This battle was a big defeat for the Turgesh army.

Role During Inäl Khagan's Rule

Tonyukuk was not very active in politics during Inäl's time as ruler. He accepted Inäl as the rightful leader. Tonyukuk was spared, perhaps because he was very respected and old. Another reason might be that he was Bilgä Qaγan's father-in-law.

Advising Bilgä Khagan

In 716, Tonyukuk was made Master Strategist by his son-in-law, Bilgä Qaγan.

Chinese records say that Bilgä Qaγan wanted to become a Buddhist and build cities and temples. However, Tonyukuk advised him not to. He explained that the Turks' nomadic lifestyle made them strong warriors, especially compared to the Tang dynasty. Tonyukuk believed that becoming Buddhist would make the people too peaceful. He argued that sticking to their traditional religion, Tengriism, was important for their survival.

In 720, a Tang official planned to attack Bilgä Qaγan with other groups. Tonyukuk cleverly attacked first in 721, completely defeating the Baximi. Meanwhile, Bilgä raided Gansu and took many animals. Later that year, the Khitans and then the Xi were also defeated.

Tonyukuk passed away around 726.

Tonyukuk's Family

Tonyukuk was the father of Eletmiš Bilgä Qatun. This made him the father-in-law of Bilgä Qaγan. He was also the grandfather of Yollïg and Teŋrï Qaγans.

His Lasting Legacy

Tonyukuk's life story, his achievements, and his advice on how to run a country were carved into two large stone pillars. These pillars, known as the Tonyukuk inscriptions, were put up around 716, before he died. They are located at a place called Bayn Tsokto in modern-day Mongolia.

Tonyukuk was also remembered in later texts, including some from the Uyghur people. One old manuscript found in Qocho quotes him saying:

Then the wise Toñuk(uk) spoke as follows: The Turk (nation) is ruined and has lost its chance of (salvation).