Zhayu

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]

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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]

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