Basic Information

Alternative spelling: Zha Yu
Type/Species: Long
Origin: Taoist Mythology, Chinese Mythology

About Zhayu

Lists of the Nine Sons of the Dragon sometimes included Zhayu, though his inclusion was less popular than the other named sons. [1] Zhayu acted as a guardian or sentinel like Chiwen. [2] His favorite food was human beings, though he did not eat those who were dedicated to virtue. [4]

According to legend, Zhayu resided in the yin world, or this world, which lies below the yang world of light; thus, it was his place to remind people of their virtue. [3] In Ming times, the Emperor had to pass the dragon's statue every time he went into the garden, then known as the Palace Rear Garden. [4] Rumors held that the statues of Zhayu were added to the Forbidden City in Qing times specifically to watch the virtue of the Emperor himself. [4]

The popular belief held that if the Emperor followed the Dao, or Right Way, Zhayu would remain inactive, [3] but should the Emperor possess little or no virtue, this dragon would appear and make protest. [4]

Physical Description

Zhayu had a formidable dragon's head adorned with whiskers, a spike mane, and a single, short horn, [3] and this dragon was known for his fearsome visage. [2] He had powerful claws and a bushy tail. [3]

So fierce was his image that the statues of Zhayu intimidated anyone who looked upon them. [3] Two bronze stand guard inside the Yuhuayuan [2] at Ningshoumen. [3]

Related Articles

  • Zhayu was a dragon known for his fierceness. [1]
  • Statues are made of his image to remind people to follow the Dao, or Right Way. [4]

Related Articles

Term Reference

Ningshoumen
n. The Gate of Tranquil Longevity found in the Yuhuayuan in the Forbidden City.
Yuhuayuan
n. The Imperial Garden in the Forbidden City
Ningshoumen n. The Gate of Tranquil Longevity found in the Yuhuayuan in the Forbidden City.
Yuhuayuan n. The Imperial Garden in the Forbidden City

Footnotes

  1. Bates 43
  2. Bates 48
  3. Bates 53
  4. Bates 54

For more information on footnotes and references, please see the bibliography.