Doumu is a prominent figure in Chinese mythology and religion. She is known as the mother of the Big Dipper and is considered the female equivalent of Tian, the male god of celestial energy. Doumu is often depicted as a gentle and loving figure, and her divine powers are said to be crucial for maintaining order in the universe.
The name “Doumu” translates to “Mother of the Dipper” and is derived from her association with the constellation. In some Taoist texts, she is also referred to as Xiwangmu, the goddess of the West. Doumu is often depicted with sixteen arms, which symbolize her divine power, and she is associated with a number of other symbols, including the phoenix, the dragon, and the turtle.
According to Chinese mythology, Doumu is the mother of the nine stars of the Big Dipper, who are her sons. She is also believed to be the wife of the Jade Emperor, the ruler of the heavens. In addition to her role as a mother figure, Doumu is also associated with creation and balance, and her divine powers are said to be essential for maintaining harmony in the universe.
Overview
Doumu is a Chinese goddess who is the mother of the Big Dipper. She is the female equivalent to Tian, the male half of the Chinese concept of heavenly energy. In some Taoist texts, she is thought to be the goddess, Xiwangmu.
Doumu is an important figure in Chinese mythology and is associated with the stars and the sky. She is considered to be a powerful deity who has control over the forces of nature, including the weather and the elements.
According to Chinese mythology, Doumu is the mother of the seven stars of the Big Dipper, which are believed to have a significant influence on human destiny. She is often depicted holding a ladle in one hand and a bucket in the other, which represents her role as the mother of the stars.
In addition to her connection to the stars, Doumu is also associated with fertility and childbirth. She is sometimes depicted as a midwife or a nursemaid, and is believed to have the power to grant children to couples who are struggling to conceive.
Overall, Doumu is a powerful and revered figure in Chinese mythology, and her influence can be seen in various aspects of Chinese culture and society.
Etymology
Doumu (斗母) is a Chinese goddess whose name can be translated as “Mother of the Big Dipper.” The word “dou” (斗) refers to the Big Dipper constellation, while “mu” (母) means mother. In some Taoist texts, Doumu is also known as Xiwangmu (西王母), which means “Queen Mother of the West.”
The name Doumu reflects the goddess’s association with the Big Dipper, which is an important constellation in Chinese astronomy and astrology. The Big Dipper is also known as the “Northern Dipper” or the “Great Chariot,” and it is believed to hold great spiritual significance. In Chinese mythology, the Big Dipper is said to be the chariot of the Celestial Emperor, who is the god of the heavens.
The name Doumu also reflects the goddess’s maternal role. As the mother of the Big Dipper, Doumu is seen as a nurturing figure who provides guidance and protection. In some traditions, she is also associated with fertility and childbirth.
Overall, the name Doumu reflects the goddess’s role as a celestial mother figure who is closely connected to the stars and the heavens.
Attributes
Iconography
Doumu is often depicted with a serene expression, holding a small child in her arms. She is also represented with sixteen arms, each holding a different symbol of her power. These symbols include a sword, a lotus flower, and a bell. In some depictions, she is shown riding a chariot pulled by seven horses, which represents the seven stars of the Big Dipper.
Symbolism
Doumu is associated with the element of metal, which represents strength and resilience. She is also linked to the direction of the north, which is associated with wisdom and knowledge. Her role as the mother of the Big Dipper also connects her to the concept of fate and destiny. In Chinese mythology, it is believed that the position of the stars in the sky at the time of a person’s birth can determine their fate. As the mother of the Big Dipper, Doumu is seen as having control over this aspect of human life.
Overall, Doumu is a powerful and important figure in Chinese mythology, embodying the forces of creation, fate, and wisdom. Her iconography and symbolism reflect her multifaceted nature, and her role as the mother of the Big Dipper highlights her importance in the cosmic order.
Family Tree
Parentage
Doumu’s parentage is not entirely clear in Chinese mythology. In some texts, she is considered to be the daughter of the Jade Emperor, while in others, she is said to have been born from the breath of the Big Dipper itself. Some legends even suggest that she is the mother of the Jade Emperor.
Offspring
Doumu is known to have given birth to several important figures in Chinese mythology. One of her most famous offspring is the god of literature and culture, Wen Chang. She is also believed to be the mother of the god of war, Guan Yu, and the god of wealth, Zhao Gongming. Additionally, some texts suggest that she gave birth to the god of longevity, Shouxing.
Overall, Doumu’s family tree is complex and varied, reflecting her importance in Chinese mythology as a motherly figure and a powerful goddess. Her offspring are revered and respected in their own right, and their stories continue to be told and celebrated in Chinese culture to this day.
Mythology
Origins
Doumu, also known as the Mother of the Big Dipper, is a foundational deity in Chinese mythology. Her origins can be traced back to the Han dynasty, where she was considered a goddess of childbirth and fertility. However, her role expanded over time to include other aspects of life, such as protection and healing.
Legends
There are few myths that feature Doumu, but her most notable relationship is as the mother of the Big Dipper. According to legend, the seven stars of the Big Dipper were once seven young men who angered the gods and were transformed into stars. Doumu, as their mother, watches over them and protects them from harm.
Another legend tells of Doumu’s role in creating the universe. She is said to have used her divine powers to create the stars and planets, as well as the natural elements of earth, air, fire, and water.
Worship
Doumu is primarily worshipped in Taoism, where she is considered a goddess of the heavens. Her role as a protector and healer has made her a popular figure among those seeking comfort and guidance. In some regions, she is also worshipped as a goddess of fertility and childbirth.
Overall, Doumu’s importance in Chinese mythology cannot be overstated. Her divine powers and benevolent nature have made her a beloved figure among the Chinese people for centuries.