Author: Erlang Shen


  • The Legacy of Mazu: Taiwan’s Sea Goddess

    Mazu, like many deities within the Chinese pantheon, was once an ordinary individual who was elevated to divinity after her demise. Her legacy is significant, so much so that she has been inscribed on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage. However, referring to her solely as a Chinese goddess may be a point of…

  • Mazu, like many deities in Chinese culture, was originally an ordinary person who was elevated to divine status posthumously. Her influence endures impressively, as she is recognized on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. However, labeling her strictly as a Chinese goddess can be contentious, particularly considering her significant impact in Taiwan. The Significance of…

  • The Divine Journey of Mazu: From Mortal to Goddess

    Mazu, a revered figure in Chinese mythology, transitioned from an ordinary individual to a goddess posthumously. Her enduring influence garnered her a spot on the UNESCO list for intangible cultural heritage, yet referring to her solely as a Chinese goddess may not fully encompass her significance, particularly in Taiwan where her impact resonates deeply. What…

  • The Legend of Mazu: Protectress of the Sea

    The Tale of Mazu: Guardian of the Sea Overview In the realm of Chinese mythology, Mazu (媽祖) holds the esteemed title of the sea goddess. Revered as the protector of sailors, fishermen, and travelers, she shares a kinship with Guanyin (觀音), the goddess of mercy. Mazu’s influence is particularly significant in coastal regions of Southern…

  • The Fearsome God of Thunder: Lei Gong in Chinese Mythology

    Overview In Chinese mythology, Lei Gong (雷公) serves as the deity of thunder, brandishing a hammer to deliver punishment to sinners and fight off demons. This formidable figure strikes a fearsome image, sporting dragon-like traits including claws, wings, and a uniquely intimidating face. In addition to his hammer, he uses a drum to produce the…

  • The Mythology of Lei Gong: God of Thunder and Justice

    In Chinese mythology, Lei Gong, often referred to as Lei Shen (雷神 léi shén) or Lei Shi (雷师 léi shī), is revered as the God of Thunder and serves as the executioner of Heaven. His earliest mentions can be traced back to The Classic of Mountains and Seas: East, where he’s described as a divine…

  • The Fearsome God of Thunder: Lei Gong in Chinese Mythology

    Overview In Chinese mythology, Lei Gong (雷公) is recognized as the formidable god of thunder, wielding a hammer as he seeks to punish those who commit sins and confront demons. He is often portrayed as an intimidating figure with dragon-like features, including a fearsome face, claws, and wings. Alongside his hammer, he also carries a…

  • The Mythological Story of Lei Gong, the God of Thunder and Lightning

    In the realm of Chinese mythology, Lei Gong, often referred to as Lei Shen (雷神 léi shén) or Lei Shi (雷师 léi shī), occupies the role of the God of Thunder and the executor of divine justice in Heaven. His origins trace back to the text “The Classic of Mountains and Seas: East,” which describes…

  • The Thunder God of Chinese Mythology: Lei Gong

    Overview In Chinese mythology, Lei Gong (雷公) is recognized as the thunder god, wielding a powerful hammer to punish wrongdoers and engage in battle against malevolent spirits. With a daunting presence, he embodies the features of a dragon, complete with wings, claws, and a fierce visage. Alongside his hammer, Lei Gong carries a drum that…

  • The Deity Doumu: A Closer Look The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco is home to an exquisite portrayal of Doumu, a significant figure in Daoism dating back to approximately 1700-1800 in China’s Fujian province during the Qing dynasty. This remarkable sculpture, designated as Dehua ware, exhibits mold-impressed porcelain with intricately sculpted decorations, and is…