Happy Chinese New Year!
As we approach January 28, 2025, the start of the Lunar New Year, families everywhere are busy with preparations—setting up offerings, paying homage to ancestors, and ushering in blessings for the year ahead. A central figure in these traditions is the revered Chai Shen, the Chinese God of Wealth, celebrated as the first deity to honor in the new zodiac cycle.
To all my spiritual seekers out there, this is the perfect time to dive into the story and significance of Chai Shen. Let’s explore how this fascinating figure embodies the universal human wish for prosperity and abundance.
Why Is Chai Shen Important?
At the heart of Lunar New Year celebrations, people honor deities to invite good fortune, wealth, and well-being into their homes. Chai Shen stands out as the first god worshipped in the zodiac transition, often referred to as the God of Fortune.
Here’s a fun fact: “wealth” isn’t just about money. In traditional beliefs, it encompasses luck, destiny, longevity, and happiness. Chai Shen represents all of these values, making him a crucial figure for anyone seeking holistic prosperity.
Two Faces of Chai Shen: The Scholar and the Warrior
Chai Shen is more than one deity—he’s a title that represents different divine figures based on their attributes. Here are the two most well-known:
- Pi Gan (The Scholar)
Pi Gan was a loyal minister from ancient Chinese lore, known for his unshakable ethics. According to legend, he stood against a corrupt emperor under the spell of a cunning fox spirit. His story takes a dramatic turn when he willingly removes his own heart to prove his integrity. Even without a heart, Pi Gan traveled freely, distributing wealth and living selflessly. Today, he symbolizes wisdom, justice, and ethical prosperity. - Zhao Gong Ming (The Warrior)
Zhao Gong Ming was a mystical warrior with a fierce reputation. Armed with divine tools and accompanied by a black tiger, his ambition was to become the sole God of Wealth. But his actions often veered into dangerous territory, leading to cosmic chaos. His story reminds us of the balance needed between ambition and ethics. Together, these two figures represent different paths to wealth: wisdom and valor.
Wealth Deities Across Cultures
The desire for prosperity is universal. Whether it’s Lakshmi and Kubera in Hinduism, Jambhala in Tibetan Buddhism, or the seven lucky gods of Japan, nearly every culture has its own version of Chai Shen. This shared tradition highlights humanity’s timeless yearning for abundance and happiness.
How to Worship Chai Shen During Chinese New Year
Welcoming Chai Shen into your home is all about intention and preparation. Here’s a simple guide:
- Timing: Midnight on January 28 marks the perfect moment to honor the deity.
- Location: Set up your altar in an open space, like your front yard or rooftop, ensuring it faces the direction of luck for the year (check your zodiac guide for specifics).
- Offerings: Use red paper to decorate your altar and place items like fruits, steamed buns, tea, and gold paper offerings. Don’t forget a glass of water with pomegranate leaves to sprinkle blessings over your home.
For those in Bangkok, the temples and shrines in Yaowarat will be alive with energy all night long. Expect a sea of red outfits, lanterns, and families coming together to pay respects. It’s one of the most vibrant nights of the year, so don’t miss it!
Final Thoughts from Nai Mu
The Lunar New Year is more than just a celebration—it’s a moment to reflect, reset, and invite abundance into your life. Whether you connect with Pi Gan’s wisdom or Zhao Gong Ming’s determination, Chai Shen’s blessings are universal.
So, wear your best red attire, light those incense sticks, and join the festivities. Here’s to a year of wealth, happiness, and success for us all.
Wishing you all prosperity, luck, and joy!
Written by Nai Mu
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