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 Lotus Prince” (蓮花三太子; lin4 faa1 saam1 taai3 zi2). This examination of Nezha reveals the reasons behind his immense reverence and the awe surrounding his character.
The Warrior Child
Unlike typical deities often characterized as adults, Nezha is portrayed as a child, notably sporting twin warrior buns atop his head. His striking representations often feature him with “three heads, six arms” (三頭六臂; saam1 tau4 luk6 bei3), a fierce form granting him a tactical advantage in battle, able to confront adversaries from multiple directions. Some narratives elevate this to a “three heads, eight arms” (三頭八臂; saam1 tau4 baat3 bei3) variant, bestowing him enhanced strength, though this is less frequently depicted. Fascinatingly, some legends attribute to Nezha the remarkable ability to spout rainbows.
Nezha’s signature accessory is a leopard-skin pouch (豹皮囊; paau3 pei4 nong4) worn around his waist or chest, a gift from his mentor, Taiyi Zhenren (太乙真人; taai3 jyut6 zan1 jan4). Known as the “warrior child god,” he utilizes this pouch to carry a variety of weapons.
Note on Weapons
Nezha’s pouch contains five formidable weapons referred to as “Wu Bao” (五寶; “five treasures”). Among these, the fire tip spear (火尖槍; fo2 zim1 coeng1) stands out, characterized by a vibrant tuft of fur that hovers just below the spearhead. Likewise, the universal ring (乾坤圈; qián kūn quān), a potent offensive tool gifted by his parents, once served to eliminate Ao Bing, the son of the East Sea Dragon King. This golden ring, capable of expanding and contracting, is known for its deadly efficacy.
Another one of Nezha’s offensive assets is the golden brick (金磚; gam1 zyun1) which he utilizes in battle. His iconic red “armillary sash” (混天綾; wan6 tin1 ling4; literally “mix sky thin silk”) enhances his appearance while serving the function of immobilizing or strangling adversaries, and it possesses regenerative properties if damaged. While not a weapon per se, Nezha’s “wind fire wheels” (風火輪; fung1 fo2 leon4) symbolize swift travel, producing wind from one wheel and fire from the other as he moves.
Nezha has access to a sixth, secret weapon granted by his mentor – the “nine dragons holy fire cover” (九龍神火罩; gau2 lung4 san4 fo2 zaau3) which houses nine dragons. Unlike ordinary fire, these dragons unleash the “true fire of Samadhi” (三昧真火; saam1 mui6 zui1 fo2), capable of damaging both immortals and demons. This powerful weapon played a dramatic role in the demise of Lady Earth Flow (石磯娘娘; sek6 gei1 noeng4 noeng4).
Blending of Origins
Nezha, widely acknowledged as a Chinese deity, may have roots in two figures from Hindu mythology. One possible origin is connected to Nalakubar from the Ramayana, with the association extending to his Chinese name appearing in Buddhist texts. The original name, Naluojiupoluo (那羅鳩婆羅; naa5 lo4 gau1 po4 lo4), evolved through several versions to become Nezha. The influence of Krishna, a child god from Hindu beliefs, is also present; both figures share narratives of conquering monstrous serpents.
Compellingly, the storyline of Nezha’s father, General Li Jing, reflects Hindu mythology’s themes. Li Jing’s connections to the Heavenly King Valsravana in Buddhism draw intriguing parallels to Nezha’s narrative, culminating in the title of the “pagoda-bearing heavenly king” (扎塔李天王; zaat3 taap3 lei5 tin1 wong4).
Nezha’s Narrative
The most renowned tale of Nezha emerges from the Taoist texts, particularly in the classic work, Investiture of the Gods (封神演義; fung1 san4 jin2 ji6). According to this account, Nezha was born during the Shang dynasty to General Li Jing and Lady Yin (殷氏), coming into the world after an extended pregnancy. Upon emerging from a mysterious ball of flesh, Nezha appeared fully formed as a child.
In the face of a flood, the East Sea Dragon King, Ao Guang, demanded sacrifices in exchange for ceasing the calamity. When his friend was taken, Nezha decided to confront the dragon king directly. After decisively defeating Ao Guang’s son Ao Bing, the dragon king sought retribution, leading to a complex relationship between Nezha, his parents, and the heavenly realm. In a show of sorrow and responsibility, Nezha chose to disembowel himself, considering it a means to repay his parents and correct his mistakes.
The Cycle of Retribution
Dying, Nezha’s spirit implored his mother to construct a temple, which incited his father’s outrage. In a fit of anger, Li Jing demolished the temple, sparking a fierce rivalry between father and son. Eventually, Taiyi Zhenren resurrected Nezha using lotus flowers, enabling him to pursue vengeance against his father. After engaging in conflict with his brother Muzha and being subdued by divine forces, Nezha’s character shifted, showcasing attributes of growth and resolution.
Nezha in Popular Culture
Nezha’s distinct character consistently appears throughout Chinese mythology and contemporary culture. He features prominently in literary pieces like Investiture of the Gods and Journey to the West (西遊記; sai1 jau4 gei3), where he becomes part of the Jade Emperor’s forces and eventually allies with Sun Wukong (孫悟空; syun1 ng6 hung1). Furthermore, Nezha’s influence has stretched into modern narratives like R.F Kuang’s novel series, The Poppy War.
Television portrayals have kept Nezha alive, appearing in series such as the 2001 TVB production, Gods of Honour, and the 2020 show Legend of Nezha, each retelling his legendary adventures. Intriguingly, the colloquial term for Segways and similar devices in Cantonese flavorably recalls Nezha’s “wind fire wheels” based on their swift functionality.
Worship and Traditions
Despite his representation in pop culture, Nezha remains a revered figure in Chinese folk religion. His birthday is celebrated on varying dates across regions, often aligning with the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, coinciding with the Chung Yeung Festival. In Hong Kong and Guangdong, the focus may shift to the eighteenth day of the fifth lunar month, honoring Nezha on Bodhi Day.
Temples dedicated to Nezha can be found throughout China and Macau, with one notable site being the Sam Tai Tze and Pak Tai Temple in Sham Shui Po. Worship practices generally involve the offering of food, although duck is notably avoided due to its ties to Nezha’s narrative. Since he embodies youthful spirit, sweets, particularly candies, are greatly appreciated offerings.
