Zhang Guolao
Immortal Elder Zhang
Immortal (Taoist deity)
Place of Origin: China
Origin Date: Zhang Guolao's legends date back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE).
Domain: Wisdom, longevity, magic.
Symbols: White donkey, fish drum, phoenix feather, peach of immortality.
Attributes: Wisdom, mystical abilities, longevity.
Epithets: Immortal Elder Zhang, Zhang Guo.
Equivalents: There are no direct equivalents in other religions, but Zhang Guolao shares similarities with other deities associated with wisdom and longevity.
Religion: Taoism
Sacred Texts: Various Taoist scriptures and legends.
Iconography: Zhang Guolao is often depicted riding a white donkey backward, carrying a fish drum or a phoenix feather, and sometimes holding a peach of immortality.
Relations: Zhang Guolao is one of the Eight Immortals, often depicted in the company of the other immortals.
Description
Zhang Guolao is one of the Eight Immortals in Taoist mythology, known for his wisdom and eccentricity. He is often depicted riding a white donkey backward, symbolizing his unconventional nature. Zhang Guolao is celebrated for his mystical abilities, including making himself invisible and performing feats of magic. He is also known for his love of wine and winemaking, which is believed to have healing properties.
Narratives
The Life of Zhang Guolao
Zhang Guolao, also known as Zhang Guo, was a Taoist fangshi (occultist-alchemist) who lived as a hermit on Zhongtiao Mountain during the Tang dynasty. He claimed to be several hundred years old and was known for his eccentric behavior and mystical abilities. This story highlights his mysterious origins and his connection to Taoist practices.
Zhang Guolao and the White Donkey
Zhang Guolao is often depicted riding a white donkey, which he could fold like paper for convenient storage. When he needed to travel, he would unfold the donkey and bring it back to life with a mere spit. This story emphasizes his magical abilities and his whimsical nature.
Zhang Guolao and the Emperor
During the reign of Empress Wu Zetian, Zhang Guolao was invited to the imperial court. He demonstrated his mystical powers by making himself invisible and performing other miraculous feats. Despite his eccentric behavior, he gained the respect and admiration of the emperor. This story highlights his interactions with the imperial court and his reputation as a powerful immortal.
Zhang Guolao and the Eight Immortals
Zhang Guolao is one of the Eight Immortals, a group of legendary Taoist figures known for their powers of transformation and magic. He is often depicted with the other immortals, using his unique abilities to assist them in their quests for enlightenment and immortality. This story underscores his role within the group and his contributions to their collective mythology.
Zhang Guolao and the Fish Drum
Zhang Guolao is often depicted carrying a fish drum, a tube-shaped bamboo drum with two iron rods or mallets. The drum symbolizes his connection to music and his ability to create harmony. This story highlights his association with musical instruments and his role as a bringer of joy and entertainment.
Worship Beliefs and Practices of Zhang Guolao
Zhang Guolao is one of the Eight Immortals in Taoist mythology, known for his eccentricity, mystical abilities, and association with longevity and alchemy. He is often depicted riding a white donkey, which he is said to fold up like paper when not in use.
Core Beliefs
Immortal and Alchemist: Zhang Guolao is revered as one of the Eight Immortals, a group of legendary figures in Taoism who achieved immortality through their virtuous lives and spiritual practices. He is also celebrated as an alchemist and occultist, known for his knowledge of necromancy and magical arts.
Symbol of Longevity and Eccentricity: Zhang Guolao's unique abilities and eccentric behavior symbolize longevity and the unconventional path to spiritual enlightenment. His story highlights his dedication to Taoist practices and his role as a protector and benefactor.
Mystical Abilities: Zhang Guolao is known for his mystical abilities, including making himself invisible, drinking water from poisonous flowers, and performing feats of magic. He is believed to have the power to heal and protect his followers through his alchemical knowledge.
Attributes and Significance
Depictions: Zhang Guolao is often depicted as an old man riding a white donkey, usually seated facing backwards. He is associated with the fish drum, a tube-shaped bamboo drum with two iron rods or mallets, and sometimes carries a phoenix feather or a peach, representing immortality.
Symbols: Common symbols associated with Zhang Guolao include the white donkey, the fish drum, and the phoenix feather. These symbols are used in rituals and ceremonies to invoke his presence and blessings.
Cultural Hero: The stories and depictions of Zhang Guolao are passed down through generations, maintaining their significance in Chinese culture and mythology. He embodies the qualities of longevity, eccentricity, and spiritual transformation.
Practices of Worship
Rituals and Ceremonies: Devotees perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor Zhang Guolao. These include offerings of incense, food, and other goods to seek his favor and protection. Rituals often take place in Taoist temples dedicated to the Eight Immortals.
Sacred Sites: Temples and shrines dedicated to Zhang Guolao can be found throughout China. These sites are often located in places associated with the Eight Immortals and Taoist practices.
Offerings: Offerings to Zhang Guolao typically include incense, food, and items related to his symbols, such as representations of white donkeys and fish drums. These offerings symbolize gratitude and the desire for protection and blessings.
Festivals and Traditions
Eight Immortals Festivals: Various festivals dedicated to the Eight Immortals include prayers, rituals, and offerings to seek their blessings for protection and prosperity. These festivals often feature traditional music, dance, and theatrical performances.
Cultural Celebrations: Zhang Guolao's story may be included in cultural celebrations and festivals that honor Chinese heritage and traditions. These gatherings often include music, dance, and storytelling.
Prayers: Devotees pray to Zhang Guolao for protection, longevity, and success in their endeavors. Traditional prayers often invoke his role as one of the Eight Immortals and a symbol of eccentricity and spiritual transformation.
Zhang Guolao's role as one of the Eight Immortals and an alchemist embodies the core values and beliefs of Taoist mythology, emphasizing the importance of longevity, eccentricity, and the interconnectedness of all life.