The Legend of Zhong Kui: China’s Demon Hunter
Zhong Kui, known as a formidable demon hunter, traces his roots back to the Tang Dynasty, with his legacy continuing into the Song Dynasty, when he became an integral figure in Daoist tradition. Understanding his tale is crucial for grasping elements of Chinese cultural heritage.
Origins of Zhong Kui
Zhong Kui was born in the Zhongnan Mountain region during the early Tang period. Despite his intelligence and loyalty, Zhong Kui was not conventionally attractive. He was described as heavily built, with a square-shaped face, wide-set eyes, a large mouth, and curly facial hair.
In his youth, Zhong Kui traveled to Chang’an (present-day Xi’an) with his companion Du Ping to take the imperial civil service examination. He excelled, earning the prestigious title of Zhuang Yuan, which would ensure him a life of prestige and wealth. However, fearing that his unattractive appearance would bring disgrace to the empire, court officials stripped him of his honor. Overcome with grief, Zhong Kui tragically took his own life by repeatedly striking his head against the palace steps. Du Ping, his faithful friend, laid him to rest.
The narratives diverge regarding what transpired next.
In one account, Zhong Kui was led to the underworld, where he met King Yama, the ruler of hell. Recognizing Zhong Kui’s capabilities, King Yama appointed him the “King of Ghosts,” assigning him the duty of capturing malevolent spirits.
Another version holds that upon learning of Zhong Kui’s death, the emperor was filled with remorse. He ordered that Zhong Kui be buried wearing official robes and granted him his title posthumously. In appreciation, Zhong Kui’s spirit vowed to safeguard the empire from evil beings.
Both narratives agree that subsequently, Zhong Kui’s spirit returned home to celebrate the New Year, much to the astonishment of his family and friends. In an act of gratitude, he even facilitated a marriage between his sister and Du Ping.
The Reappearance of Zhong Kui
The legend continues in the Song Dynasty literary work “Bu Mengqi Bitan” by Shen Kuo. Many years later, Emperor Xuanzong fell ill following an archery practice. While resting, he witnessed a ghost invading his quarters and stealing items belonging to his favored concubine along with his jade flute. Just as the ghost attempted to escape, a larger specter in official garb confronted it. The larger ghost apprehended and gruesomely dispatched the smaller spirit, introducing himself to the emperor as Zhong Kui.
Once Emperor Xuanzong recovered, he shared this startling incident with the court painter, Wu Daozi. The portrayals of Zhong Kui that persist in contemporary renderings mostly derive from Wu Daozi’s artistic interpretations.
Zhong Kui in Modern Context
Today, Zhong Kui features prominently in various forms of Chinese entertainment, including operas, television series, films, and video games. In Japan, he is known as Shōki, with the oldest visual representation of Shōki dating back to the reign of Emperor Goshirakawa (1127-1192). In certain areas of Kyoto, residents continue the tradition of displaying images of Zhong Kui on their rooftops, believing he offers protection.
Alternative Interpretations of Zhong Kui’s Origin
Some ancient Chinese writings suggest a different origin story for the Zhong Kui myth. Zhao Yi, in his work Gaiyu Congkao, claims that the legend may have arisen from the Zhong Kui flower. Another Han Dynasty scholar, Ma Rong, indicates that people waved the Zhong Kui flower as a protective charm against evil spirits. Over time, as the flower itself became less significant, the narrative of Zhong Kui, the fierce demon hunter, may have emerged.
