From the iconic vampire hunter Abraham Van Helsing in Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” to the acclaimed anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” the themes of ghost hunters and demon slayers have significantly influenced fiction. Interestingly, similar characters are prominent in Chinese folklore as well. One such heroic figure is Zhong Kui (鍾馗; zung1 kwai4), a formidable Taoist deity celebrated for his ghost-busting skills and the ability to command 80,000 demons. In this edition of our Chinese Mythology 101 series, we delve into the intriguing backstory and cultural impact of this celebrated “king of ghosts” (驅魔真君; keoi1 mo1 zan1 gwan1).
A Distinctive Start
The role of a demon hunter invites a fair share of teasing, and Zhong Kui is no different. His extensive Taoist title, which translates to “divine thundering exorcist and slayer of demons, king of bringing luck and prosperity” (翊聖雷霆驅魔辟邪鎮宅賜福帝君; jik6 sing3 leoi4 ting4 keoi1 mo1 pik1 ce4 zan3 zaak6 ci3 fuk1 dai3 gwan1), is often shortened for convenience. Familiar titles such as “king of demons” (鎮宅真君; zan3 zaak6 zan1 gwan1), “king of exorcists” (伏魔大帝; fuk6 mo1 daai6 dai3), or “master Zhong Kui” (鍾馗大師; zung1 kwai4 daai6 si1) aptly reflect his formidable reputation.
A Fearsome Appearance
Zhong Kui’s frightening visage is part of what makes him formidable. His bulging, fish-like eyes, square features, and hunched posture create a ghastly appearance reminiscent of Quasimodo. With a long black beard and a fierce countenance, he is anything but inviting. Despite this terrifying exterior, his clothing choices are rather humble. Older representations show him in a simple blue robe with a plain cloth cap, while modern illustrations often feature him in a vibrant red governor’s garb alongside a black gauze cap typical of ancient officials. His accessories also vary, ranging from fans and swords to books, each symbolizing his prowess in hunting demons.
In many depictions, he is accompanied by five small ghostly aides known collectively as the “five ghosts of moving luck” (五鬼搬運; ng5 gwai2 bun1 wan6). These lesser spirits, often seen carrying essential items like lanterns, stamps, umbrellas, and gourd vases, serve as Zhong Kui’s helpful companions. One may even hold the reins of his steed or carry a bat to help identify troublesome spirits.
Ambiguous Beginnings
In keeping with mythological traditions, the origins of Zhong Kui are not unanimously agreed upon. One theory posits that his name originates from a tool used for exorcising spirits during the Shang dynasty—initially a mask that eventually morphed into a hammer.
Another concept introduced by Ming-dynasty herbalist Li Shizhen suggests that “Zhong Kui” derives from the term for a mushroom. Fungi were once viewed as a remedy for malaria, a disease thought to originate from malevolent entities, thus establishing a link between mushrooms and Zhong Kui’s legendary demon-slaying powers.
Conversely, Ming-dynasty intellectual Lang Ying rejected this idea. He believed “Zhong Kui” originally referred to a governor named Yao Xuan (堯暄; jiu4 hyun1) of the Northern Wei dynasty. In classical China, scholars would often have a “zi” or literary name; Yao’s was “Bi Xie” (避邪; bei6 ce4), which translates to “to ward off evil spirits.” This association gave rise to the myth of Zhong Kui as a victorious force against evil.
A Not-So-Heroic Start
Intriguingly, Zhong Kui’s legacy began in a rather tragic manner. A tale from the Tang dynasty tells of a scholar named Zhong Kui who, despite his scruffy and unkempt appearance, possessed remarkable intelligence and kindness. Eager to succeed in the imperial examinations, he traveled with his close friend Du Ping to the capital, Chang’an. Enchanted by the vibrant city, he strolled about, oblivious to a fortune teller’s warning of impending misfortune. Disregarding this presage, he went on to take the exams.
To his astonishment, Zhong Kui emerged as the top scorer! Alas, upon witnessing his unappealing looks, the emperor dismissed him and stripped him of his title.
His Divine Role
According to another narrative, upon Zhong Kui’s entrance to Diyu (地獄; dei6 juk6; the Chinese equivalent of Hell), the underworld king Yan Wang recognized his potential and lamented the dire fate that had befallen him. Thus, he ordained Zhong Kui as the “king of ghosts,” charging him with the duty of capturing demons and safeguarding the mortal realm from malevolent spirits.
In a twist of fate, Zhong Kui returned to the living world on Chinese New Year’s Eve. Showing gratitude for being reunited with his physical form, he arranged for his younger sister to wed his best friend.
Ascending Renown
Another legend from the Tang dynasty recounts that a critically ill Emperor Xuanzong experienced dreams involving ghosts. During one vision, a small ghost pilfered valuables from the imperial consort Yang Guifei, only to be captured and devoured by a much larger ghost who identified itself as Zhong Kui, vowing to cleanse the empire of evil. Upon waking, the emperor miraculously recovered and interpreted the dream as a divine sign, commissioning a portrait of Zhong Kui that would shape his iconography in subsequent artistic depictions.
Linguistic Influence
The enduring legacy of Zhong Kui has permeated the Chinese language, inspiring various idioms. Phrases using his name often describe deceptive appearances or the dichotomy of inner goodness obscured by outward appearances. His impact extends to topics such as “ghost marriages” (鍾馗嫁妹; zung1 kwai4 gaa3 mui6) and even concepts of fear that even spirits would shy away from (鍾馗開飯店; zung1 kwai4 hoi1 faan6 dim3), humorously implying that Zhong Kui has opened a restaurant!
Practices of Worship
Given his role as a powerful exorcist, Zhong Kui is widely revered in contemporary culture. Often viewed as a guardian spirit, depictions of him grace the entrances of homes, particularly during Chinese New Year, in hopes of warding off bad luck. His imagery may also be prominently displayed ahead of the Dragon Boat Festival to fend off plague gods that plague the summer months.
In Taiwan, a ritual known as the “dancing Zhong Kui” (跳鍾馗; tiu3 zung1 kwai4) involves a shaman portraying the deity to repel evil through dramatic demonstrations often including sword-swallowing and fire-breathing. Such rituals are prevalent during somber occasions, as well as celebratory events like temple inaugurations, where the shaman embodies the spirit to bring about good fortune and repel misfortune.
Conclusion
Zhong Kui’s narrative, rooted in tragedy and rebirth, showcases the complex interplay between myth, culture, and morality in Chinese tradition. As a figure illustrating the battle against evil, he remains a compelling symbol of hope, resilience, and redemption in the face of adversity.
