Hou Yi is a prominent figure in Chinese mythology, known for his exceptional archery skills and heroic feats. According to legend, he was able to shoot down nine of the ten suns that were causing a scorching drought across the land. He is also known for marrying the moon goddess, Chang’e, and for his role in saving the moon during an eclipse.
The name Hou Yi is derived from the Chinese characters “后羿” which means “Lord Yi”. He is also sometimes referred to as Shen Yi or simply Yi. Hou Yi is typically portrayed as a skilled archer and a courageous hero who is willing to risk his life to protect his people. His stories have been passed down through generations and continue to captivate and inspire people today.
In addition to his archery skills, Hou Yi is also known for his family ties. He is said to have had a wife named Chang’e, who was a goddess of the moon, and a student named Fengmeng, who was also a skilled archer. Hou Yi’s family tree is an important aspect of his mythology, as it helps to explain his connections to other prominent figures in Chinese folklore.
Overview
Hou Yi, the Lord Archer, is a legendary figure in Chinese mythology. He is known for his exceptional archery skills and his heroic feats that have earned him undying fame. Hou Yi is also famous for marrying the moon goddess, Chang’e.
According to legend, Hou Yi is the greatest archer of all time, and he is often portrayed as a god of archery or a xian descended from heaven to aid mankind. He is said to have saved the moon during an eclipse and rescued the country from various plagues.
Hou Yi’s most famous feat, however, was shooting down nine of the ten suns that were burning up the earth. This act saved the world from certain destruction and earned him the title of Lord Archer.
Hou Yi is also known for his family tree, which includes his wife, Chang’e, and his apprentice, Feng Meng. His legacy has been passed down through the generations, and he remains an important figure in Chinese culture even today.
Etymology
Hou Yi (后羿) is a name that is derived from Chinese mythology. The name “Hou” means “behind” or “after,” while “Yi” means “to shoot with a bow and arrow.” This name is fitting for Hou Yi, as he is known for his incredible archery skills.
In some versions of the mythology, Hou Yi is also known as Shen Yi, which means “divine archer.” This name reflects the belief that Hou Yi was not just a skilled archer, but also a god-like figure who possessed supernatural abilities.
The name “Hou Yi” is also closely associated with the moon goddess, Chang’e (嫦娥). In some versions of the mythology, Hou Yi and Chang’e are said to be married, while in others they are simply close companions. Regardless of their relationship, the two figures are often depicted together in Chinese art and literature.
Overall, the name “Hou Yi” is synonymous with archery and heroism in Chinese culture. It is a name that has been passed down through the generations, and continues to inspire people to this day.
Attributes
Hou Yi is known for his exceptional archery skills, which earned him the title of “Lord Archer.” According to Chinese mythology, he was able to shoot down nine of the ten suns that were causing havoc on earth. Hou Yi’s bow was said to be made from the branch of a magical tree and was able to shoot arrows that could pierce through rocks and metal.
In addition to his archery skills, Hou Yi was also known for his bravery and loyalty. He was willing to risk his life to protect his loved ones and his people. Hou Yi was also a skilled hunter and was able to provide food for his family and his community.
Hou Yi’s relationship with his wife, Chang’e, was also an important attribute. He loved her deeply and was willing to do anything to protect her. Hou Yi’s love for Chang’e was so strong that he was willing to risk his own life to save hers.
Overall, Hou Yi’s attributes of archery, bravery, loyalty, and love make him a revered figure in Chinese mythology.
Family Tree
Hou Yi’s family tree is not well documented in Chinese mythology. However, it is known that he was married to Chang’e, the moon goddess. Together, they had several children, including a son named Hou Tian (后天) and a daughter named Hou Yi (后羿).
According to some versions of the myth, Hou Yi’s father was a divine archer named Yi, who passed down his skills to his son. In other versions, Hou Yi was born to mortal parents and later became a xian (immortal) after performing feats of great valor.
Despite the lack of information about his family, Hou Yi is often depicted as a hero who acted selflessly for the benefit of his people. He is remembered as a skilled archer who saved the world from destruction by shooting down nine of the ten suns and as a devoted husband who sacrificed his own immortality to save his wife.
Mythology
Legendary Birth
According to Chinese mythology, Hou Yi was born on Earth as a mortal. However, he was later deified and became known as a god of archery. There are different versions of his birth story, but one of the most popular ones tells of how he was born from a shooting star that fell to Earth.
The Ten Suns
One of the most famous stories about Hou Yi is his defeat of the ten suns. According to legend, ten suns appeared in the sky, causing widespread drought and famine. Hou Yi was called upon to shoot down the suns, which he did with his powerful bow and arrow, leaving only one sun in the sky.
Marriage to Chang’e
Another well-known story about Hou Yi is his marriage to Chang’e, the moon goddess. According to legend, Hou Yi was rewarded with a pill of immortality for his heroic deeds. However, he did not take the pill immediately, instead giving it to his wife for safekeeping. When a jealous apprentice tried to steal the pill, Chang’e swallowed it and flew to the moon, where she has remained ever since.
Exile and Legacy
After his wife’s departure, Hou Yi became despondent and eventually left Earth to live in exile on the sun. He is still revered in Chinese mythology as a powerful archer and a symbol of heroism and courage. Hou Yi’s legacy is also seen in the Mid-Autumn Festival, which is celebrated in honor of his marriage to Chang’e and is marked by the consumption of mooncakes.