Understanding Caishen: The Chinese God of Wealth
Each Spring Festival, the Chinese community warmly greets one another with the phrase “May you become rich!” (恭喜发财 gōngxǐ fācái). Many from Western cultures might interpret this as merely a casual holiday greeting akin to “Happy New Year.” However, this saying embodies a prayer for a prosperous year ahead, invoking the blessings of Cáishén, the esteemed deity representing wealth.
Who is Caishen?
Caishen is a dynamic, multifaceted figure revered as the god of wealth, comprising nine distinct deities that represent different aspects of prosperity. Similar to the Christian concept of the Trinity, these semi-mythical figures from Chinese lore are viewed as individual incarnations of Caishen, interwoven with rich narratives from Chinese history.
Central to Daoism and widespread in folk belief, Caishen attracts fervent prayers nationwide, as devotees seek a share of the immense wealth he symbolizes, often imagined to be carried by his attendants.
When requesting Caishen’s assistance, individuals typically select one of his incarnations aligned with a specific direction. For instance, for dealings with American firms, invoking Cáo Bǎo 曹宝, associated with the West, is advisable. If one is launching a local business or completing a construction project, they might call upon Zhào Gōngmíng 赵公明, the Caishen of the Center.
The stories surrounding these incarnations are steeped in legend. Zhao Gongming, a hermit and sorcerer, provided dedicated support during the decline of the Shang Dynasty. His demise at the hands of a Zhou supporter—who shot a straw figure of him—led to a dramatic apology from the assassin, ultimately declaring Zhao the President of the Ministry of Wealth. Another notable figure, Bǐ Gàn 比干, served as a righteous official in the Shang era. He met a tragic end after advising his emperor against corruption, ironically losing his life through a cruel act of curiosity regarding the wisdom of sages.
Together, these nine embodiments encompass various elements of prosperity, offering blessings concerning luck, financial gain, gambling, and precious metals.
The Revival of Caishen
During the Maoist era, Caishen’s influence dwindled significantly, with temples and statues demolished across the nation, overshadowed by a regime that promoted self-determination over reliance on deities. However, following the economic reforms of 1979, mainland Chinese communities began to reconnect with nearby overseas Chinese cultures, particularly those from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea, where Caishen’s legacy continued to thrive amidst burgeoning prosperity.
As a result, a revitalization occurred, integrating elements from these cultures into contemporary depictions of Caishen. Statues adorned with Southeast Asian hats or scrolls inscribed with auspicious phrases began cropping up throughout mainland China.
Today, Caishen’s likeness can be found in numerous locales—from magnificent shrines perched atop Tai Shan, China’s revered mountain, to modest figurines on restaurant high shelves, hotel reception areas, and corporate offices. Adorned with offerings like ripe bananas, deemed particularly lucky, and surrounded by the remains of joss sticks, Caishen greets visitors in various settings. In many places, incense burns daily before businesses open their doors.
During the Chinese New Year, Caishen and his incarnations take center stage. In bustling cities and rural regions alike, people turn to him with fervent hopes for success and advancement. The golden ingots (元宝 yuánbǎo) he is often depicted carrying have become symbols of prosperity, appearing in decorative posters and even snacks.
As China’s economy diversifies with enterprises of all sizes emerging, the journey of business can feel precarious and gamble-like. The presence of a divine figure like Caishen offers many a sense of reassurance that fortune may yet favor them.
