Author: Erlang Shen
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Long before the advent of contemporary meteorology, early civilizations crafted their own interpretations of weather phenomena. Many of these narratives were steeped in the fantastic, featuring deities, monsters, and spirits that purportedly influenced natural elements. In this exploration, we will delve into some of these ancient stories while also presenting the scientific understanding that underpins…
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Ying Long is a prominent figure in Chinese mythology, recognized by several names such as Ji (吉 jí), Geng Chen (庚辰 gēng chén), Huang Long (黄龙 huáng lóng), and Fei Long (飞龙 fēi lóng). Often regarded as the progenitor from whom all other dragons derive, she stands as one of the Four Great Dragon Gods…
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The Yinglong dragon stands as a remarkable figure in ancient Chinese mythology. This mythical entity, recognized as a winged rain deity, played a crucial role in flood management and the development of irrigation and drainage systems. Yinglong’s presence is intricately linked to China’s rich history and folklore, making appearances in numerous classical texts and legendary…
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Fuxi (伏羲) and Nuwa (女娲) stand as pivotal figures within the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology, credited with the creation of humanity. Beyond their roles as creators, Fuxi is known for presenting various beneficial innovations to society, while Nuwa is celebrated for rescuing humanity from catastrophic dangers. This positions Fuxi and Nuwa as cultural heroes,…
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Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! In Mandarin, we refer to this occasion as Zhōngqiū Jié (中秋节)! Here, I have included a drawing of the Moon Goddess of Chinese mythology, Chang’e (嫦娥), who is a central figure in this wonderful celebration. To our friends in Korea, we wish you a joyful Chuseok, and to those in Japan, we…
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The Legacy and Craftsmanship of Chinese Jade Chinese jade refers to any carved jade artifacts created in China from the Neolithic Period (circa 3000–2000 BCE) onwards. Throughout history, the Chinese have held carved jade in high esteem, viewing it not only as valuable but also as a symbol of purity and resilience. The Significance of…
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The tale of Chang’e, the revered Moon Goddess, is a cherished narrative within Chinese myths and traditions. This captivating story has been transmitted across generations, enchanting audiences globally. The legend not only sheds light on the origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival but also conveys profound themes of love, loss, and celestial existence. The Story Unfolds…
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Understanding Nezha in Chinese Mythology Nezha (哪吒) stands as a youthful deity hailed in Chinese folk religion, embodying attributes of innocence and exuberance. Revered as a god of family devotion and children, his many titles include “Marshal of the Central Altar” (中壇元帥; zung1 taan4 jyun4 seoi3), “Prince Nezha” (哪吒太子; naa5 zaa1 taai3 zi2), and “Third…
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Transformations of Nezha in Chinese Animated Cinema: A Comparative Analysis from 1979 to 2019 Introduction Scholar Macdonald (2016) highlights the flourishing realm of China studies within animated film, indicating a shift from traditional Sinology, which primarily examines premodern topics. Chinese animated films bring a unique perspective to discussions surrounding national identity and cultural influence on…
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Nezha: The Patron Deity of Youth in Chinese Mythology Overview In the realm of Chinese mythology, Nezha (哪吒) emerges as an extraordinary teenage deity, revered as the guardian of the youth. His remarkable birth story begins with a gestation period lasting three years and six months, during which he developed exceptional strength and the ability…