Qibi Heli , formally Duke of Liangguo was a prominent Turkic general in early Tang dynasty and a companion of Taizong of Tang. Posthumously named Lie.
Early life
Qibi Heli was born to a Tiele tribe called Qibi, he was son of Qibi Ge, who was a younger brother of Yiwuzhenmohe Qaghan. Orphaned at 9 years old and lived a nomadic life around Lake Zài. His father's title was Baghatur Tegin. In 632, he led his tribe to submit Tang in Hexi, himself going toChang'an while his mother Lady Feng and brother Qibi Shamenleft behind to handle tribal affairs. He was created a general and was stationed in Liangzhou.
During reign of Taizong
He participated in Emperor Taizong's campaign against Tuyuhun in 634-635, in one occasion saving lives of generals Xue Wanjun and his brother Xue Wanche besides capturing Murong Fuyun's wife and children. He later participated in Tang campaign against Karakhoja in 640. After rise of Zhenzhu Khagan of Xueyantuo in 642, Qibi tribe submitted to him. Heli, tried to convince them to stay loyal to Tang. However, he was captured and brought to Khagan's camp. Where he spoke against him and proclaimed allegiance to Taizong, even cut of his ear. Taizong in turn offered a Tang princess to bribe Zhenzhu to ransom Heli. Although once freed, he persuaded Taizong to not to proceed with marriage. He was appointed deputy of Ashina She'er during Tang campaign against Kucha in 648 and later in Goguryeo–Tang War. Taizong himself tended to the injuries of the Tujue Generals Qibi Heli and Ashina Simo, who were both wounded during the war against Goguryeo. Qibi Heli was especially praised for his valor that despite being severely injured by a spear from enemies, he continued fighting furiously alongside with his subordinate soldiers. Despite requesting to commit suicide on Taizong's death in 649, he was forbidden by Gaozong.
During reign of Gaozong
In 657, he joined Tang conquest of the Western Turks, at some point killing Shatuo leader Zhuxie Guzhu. He participated in second Goguryeo-Tang War, defeated a Goguryeo army at the Yalu River and was instrumental on siege ofPyongyang in 668. After which he was created Great General of Left Guard and Duke of Liangguo by Gaozong. In 676, when the Tibetan Empire attacked Tang's western prefectures, Tang prince Li Xiǎn and his younger brother Li Lun, the Prince of Xiang, were nominally put in charge of the two armies that were actually commanded by the generals Liu Shenli and Qibi Heli, but neither Li Xiǎn nor Li Lun actually set out with the troops. He died in 677 and was buried in Zhao Mausoleum. He was posthumously renamed Lie and awarded with titles. His descendants continued to serve Tang dynasty.
Family
He was married to Tang dynasty relative, a daughter of governor of Lintong in 635. He fathered at least 3 sons and 6 daughters. Known sons:
Qibi Ming - General of Tang dynasty, Duke of Liangguo
Qibi Guang - General of the Guards during reign of Wu Zetian
