Huo Qubing, a renowned general under Emperor Wu of Han, mastered martial arts and archery from childhood, becoming an imperial advisor at just 18. He followed his uncle Wei Qing on multiple campaigns against the Xiongnu, earning great merit. In one battle, he led 800 cavalry charging into the enemy camp, killing many and capturing or beheading Xiongnu leaders. The emperor rewarded him richly, naming him Marquis of Champion, and his officers also received honors. Over six campaigns, Huo Qubing eliminated over 100,000 enemies, securing the northern border, so Emperor Wu promoted him to General of Swift Cavalry.
Despite his extraordinary skill in leading troops into battle, the Han Dynasty general Huo Qubing was not a man of many words. He rarely spoke his mind in daily life, and even during military councils on strategy and troop formations, he would offer little opinion.
One day, Emperor Wu of Han discussed military strategy with him. The emperor said, "The ancient art of war is truly worth studying—it contains many battle examples for learning and reference. Have you read the military texts of Wu Qi and Sun Wu? You should diligently study their strategies!"
Huo Qubing disagreed with Emperor Wu of Han's view and boldly stated his own opinion. He said, "Your Majesty, I believe that as a commanding general, it is not enough to merely imitate the battle methods of the ancients. One should determine one's tactics based on the different circumstances of the battle and the comparison of forces between the enemy and ourselves, only then can one have the confidence to win..."
"Good, good." Emperor Wu of Han immediately praised him once more.
A few months later, Emperor Wu of Han had a very lavish mansion built for Huo Qubing. He sent for him and said, "You have rendered great service to the court and deserve a fine house! I had a new residence built for you. Go take a look and see if it meets your satisfaction..."
Huo Qubing stood still and said humbly, "Your Majesty, please forgive me. I cannot accept the house. My ambition is to destroy the Xiongnu and defend the nation. Now that the Xiongnu are not yet defeated, I have no reason to establish a home for myself!"
From then on, Emperor Wu of Han valued and cherished him even more.
Later, the idiom "With the Xiongnu not yet vanquished, how can we call this home
Source: *Book of Han*, "Biography of Huo Qubing"
Meaning of the Idiom: Later, the Chinese idiom "匈奴未灭，何以家为" came to describe how with the Xiongnu not yet vanquished, one cannot call this home.