Author: Erlang Shen


  • The Compassionate Nature of Quan Yin

    Quan Yin, a name that translates to “One Who Sees and Hears the Cry from the Human World,” embodies deep compassion and maternal qualities. Known in China as “She who always observes sounds,” she represents the divine listener of prayers and pleas. Often depicted with eleven heads, she is affectionately called Sung-Tzu-Niang-Niang, which means “lady…

  • The Many Faces of Quan Yin: Goddess of Mercy and Compassion

    Quan Yin, an abbreviated name translating to “The One Who Sees and Hears the Cries from the Human Realm,” embodies compassion and mercy in Chinese mythology. Her title reflects her attentive nature, emphasizing her role as the deity who listens to prayers. Occasionally depicted with eleven heads, she is affectionately referred to as Sung-Tzu-Niang-Niang, or…

  • The Legend of Pan Gu: Creator of the Chinese Cosmos

    The Legend of Pan Gu: Creator of the Chinese Cosmos Introduction to Pan Gu At the heart of Chinese mythology lies the towering figure of Pan Gu, who emerged from the primordial chaos of a cosmic egg to shape the universe. This narrative, steeped in cultural heritage, portrays Pan Gu as the first living being,…

  • Pangu is a key character in Chinese mythological narratives surrounding creation. A traditional song sung by the Zhuang people continues to celebrate Pangu’s legendary act of forming the heavens and the Earth. The myth’s origins have sparked considerable debate among scholars; some trace it back to Xu Zheng, a 3rd-century Chinese author who first documented…

  • Pangu is an iconic figure within Chinese creation mythology, revered by the Zhuang people who continue to celebrate his story through traditional songs that recount his role in forming the heavens and the Earth. The origins of the Pangu myth have sparked much discussion among scholars, with some attributing it to Xu Zheng, a Chinese…

  • Nüwa: The Mother of Humanity in Chinese Mythology Introduction In the realm of Chinese mythology, Nüwa (女媧) stands out as the foremost figure endowed with the ability to create and reproduce, often revered as the progenitor of humanity. Given the matriarchal tendencies of ancient Chinese society, her divine feminine essence established her as a significant…

  • Overview of Nüwa in Chinese Mythology In the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology, Nüwa (女媧) stands as a prominent figure known as the first entity capable of procreation and the originator of mankind. In deeply matriarchal ancient Chinese society, her importance was accentuated as the mother of all humans, establishing her as a revered deity.…

  • Examining the Role and Significance of the Jade Emperor in Daoism

    Understanding the Jade Emperor in Daoist Beliefs Definition The Jade Emperor, or Yu Huang Da Di in Chinese culture, is venerated as the paramount deity within Daoism. Often seen as the sovereign of both Heaven and Earth, he embodies the essence of authority and justice. His significance permeates various religious practices, artistic portrayals, and cultural…

  • The Jade Emperor: Authority and Influence in Chinese Mythology

    Exploring the Jade Emperor: The Supreme Deity of Chinese Mythology The Jade Emperor, or Yu Huang, is an iconic figure in Chinese mythology, embodying the essence of supreme authority, wisdom, and virtues like compassion and fairness. His character reflects the cosmic order and the political infrastructure of ancient China. Key Points The Jade Emperor is…

  • The Jade Emperor: Symbol of Authority in Chinese Mythology

    The Jade Emperor: A Pinnacle of Chinese Mythology The Jade Emperor, also known as Yu Huang or Yu Huang Shang Ti, stands as a significant deity in the realm of Chinese mythology. His representation embodies ultimate power, wisdom, and ideals such as compassion and justice, which mirror both the concept of Heaven and the ancient…