Zhong Kui - The Demon Queller

Zhong Kui exists in the realm between legend and history. While various ancient texts like "Tang Yi Shi" (《唐逸史》) and "Shi Wu Ji Yuan" (《事物纪源》) record him as "a scholar from Mount Zhongnan," his story originates from Emperor Xuanzong's dream during the Tang Dynasty. Whether he was based on a real person or purely mythological, his cultural impact and spiritual significance have been very real for over a thousand years.

According to legend, Zhong Kui's transformation began with Emperor Xuanzong's prophetic dream during the Tianbao period. The emperor dreamed of a large demon catching and devouring a small demon. When asked, the large demon identified himself as "Zhong Kui, the failed imperial examination candidate" who vowed to rid the world of evil spirits for the emperor. Upon waking, the emperor's illness was cured, and he commissioned the master painter Wu Daozi to create Zhong Kui's portrait, officially establishing his divine status.

Zhong Kui is uniquely known as "万应之神" (Universal Responsive God) because he is believed to grant any sincere request - whether for wealth, blessings, protection, or good fortune. Unlike other deities who have specific domains, Zhong Kui responds to all types of prayers and needs. His motto is "有求必应" (respond to every request), making him exceptionally accessible to worshippers seeking divine intervention.

Zhong Kui's worship extends wherever Chinese communities exist. In China, especially in Shaanxi (his legendary birthplace), Jianghuai, Fujian, and Taiwan, people hang Zhong Kui paintings during festivals like Spring Festival and Dragon Boat Festival. Traditional performances include Nuo dances where performers wear masks and official robes while carrying bats and swords. In Japan, Zhong Kui belief is highly systematic with dedicated shrines, roof tiles, and even aircraft named after him. Southeast Asian Chinese communities also maintain strong Zhong Kui traditions.

Unlike other Chinese figure paintings that tend to be formal and composed, Zhong Kui paintings are characterized by "bizarre and whimsical, free-spirited expression" (怪诞奇趣、随性写意). Since Zhong Kui originated from a dream rather than real-life models, artists from Wu Daozi onward used expressive, unrestrained brushwork. This created a unique artistic tradition where painters could freely express their true personalities, emotions, and social commentary through Zhong Kui's image.

No, Zhong Kui and Yanluo Wang (King of Hell) are not the same person. They are two distinct deities in Chinese mythology with completely different origins, domains, and responsibilities. While both deal with supernatural entities, Zhong Kui operates in the mortal world as a demon hunter and protector, whereas Yanluo Wang rules the underworld as a judge of deceased souls. This is a common misconception that arises because both are powerful figures associated with the spirit realm.