Zhong Kui – The Ghostbuster in Chinese and Japanese Mythology

22. Dec, 2011 0 Comments

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I only recently learned of a bonsai Japanese friend Zhong Kui (钟馗 in Chinese) is not only a popular figure in Chinese culture mythology, but also Japanese culture. Well, not surprising, since there are many things in common between the two cultures.

Japanese, Zhong Kui is called Shoki.

Zhong Kui’s story

says Zhong Kui is the deity who is the king of 80,000 ghosts and demons. According to folklore, Zhong Kui (712-756 AD) was a physician of the Tang era, a man with a very ugly. To advance your career, took the national review of the capital and brilliantly, scoring the highest among all applicants. However, due to its unsightly appearance, Zhong Kui was rejected by the emperor. In shame and anger, Zhong Kui committed suicide before the emperor. He repented of his evil purpose, the emperor ordered that Zhong Kui to be buried with the highest honor. After death, Zhong Kui became the king of the ghosts in hell, and in gratitude, Zhong Kui vowed to be an overcomer of evil spirits.

The bat is often seen with Zhong Kui as a symbol of good fortune and happiness.
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Look closer, there is a red bat at the top of Zhong Kui folding fan.