Sanguan Dadi, also known as the Three Great Emperor-Officials, are revered deities in Chinese mythology and Taoism. They are believed to be three emperor officials who govern the Earth under the command of the Jade Emperor. Their names are Tian Guan (Heavenly Official), Di Guan (Earthly Official), and Shui Guan (Water Official), and they are considered to be some of the highest-ranking deities in the Taoist belief system.
The name Sanguan Dadi is derived from the Chinese language, where “san” means three, “guan” means official, and “dadi” means great emperor. The Three Great Emperor-Officials are also known as San-Yan-Dadi and Sankuan Ta-Ti. They are believed to be behind-the-scenes gods who maintain the balance of things in cooperation with the Sanqing, another group of deities in Taoism.
In Chinese mythology, the Sanguan Dadi are associated with various attributes and responsibilities. Tian Guan is responsible for bestowing happiness, Di Guan grants remission of sins, and Shui Guan averts misfortune. They are often depicted in Chinese art and literature as three bearded men wearing official robes and holding various objects, including a tablet, a whip, and a seal.
Overview
Sanguan Dadi, also known as the Three Great Emperor-Officials, are three high-ranking deities in Chinese mythology. They are believed to rule over the Earth under the command of the Jade Emperor. In Taoism, they are considered as some of the most important deities in the belief system.
The term “Sanguan Dadi” is derived from the Chinese language. “San” means three, “guan” means officials, and “dadi” means great emperor. Together, the term refers to the three emperor officials who maintain the balance of Heaven, Earth, and Sea.
Sanguan Dadi are often depicted wearing robes, with long black beards, and sitting on thrones. They are known for their regal and wise appearance. Each of the three officials has their own specific attributes and responsibilities, which are believed to be essential for maintaining harmony and balance in the universe.
According to Chinese mythology, Sanguan Dadi are part of a larger family tree of deities, including the Jade Emperor, the Sanqing, and other important figures. Their role in mythology is integral to the functioning of the universe, and they are revered and worshipped by many people in China.
Etymology
Sanguan Dadi, also known as the Three Great Emperor-Officials, is a term used in religious Taoism to refer to three of the highest-ranking deities in the belief system. The term “Sanguan” is derived from the Chinese words “san” meaning “three,” and “guan” meaning “officials.” “Dadi” means “great emperor.”
The Three Great Emperor-Officials are subordinate only to the Jade Emperor and are responsible for maintaining balance and order in the universe. They are believed to have the power to control the three realms of Heaven, Earth, and Water.
In Taoist mythology, the Three Great Emperor-Officials are often depicted as stern and serious figures, dressed in official robes and carrying symbols of their authority. They are sometimes referred to as the “Three Pure Ones” or the “Three Great Ones,” and are said to have existed since the beginning of time.
Overall, the term “Sanguan Dadi” represents the important role that these three deities play in Taoist cosmology, as well as their power and authority over the natural world.
Attributes
Powers
Sanguan Dadi are considered to be some of the most powerful deities in Chinese mythology. They are believed to have the power to control the heavens, earth, and sea. They are also believed to have the power to grant wishes and bring good fortune to those who worship them.
Symbols
The three officials are often depicted holding various symbols that represent their powers. Tian Guan, the Heavenly Official, is often depicted holding a tablet or a book, which represents his power to record the deeds of mortals. Di Guan, the Earthly Official, is often depicted holding a seal, which represents his power to control the earth. Shui Guan, the Water Official, is often depicted holding a dragon or a fish, which represents his power to control the seas.
Iconography
Sanguan Dadi are often depicted wearing official robes and hats, which represent their status as high-ranking officials. They are also often depicted with long beards, which represent their wisdom and age. In some depictions, they are shown riding on clouds or dragons, which symbolize their power over the heavens and the seas.
Family Tree
Ancestors
According to Chinese mythology, the Sanguan Dadi were born from the Jade Emperor and Queen Mother of the West. The Jade Emperor is one of the most important deities in Chinese mythology, while Queen Mother of the West is the goddess of fertility and immortality.
Descendants
The Sanguan Dadi did not have any direct descendants, but they are considered to be the ancestors of many other deities in Chinese mythology. For example, the Heavenly Official is believed to have fathered the Kitchen God, who is worshipped as the protector of households and kitchens. Meanwhile, the Earthly Official is believed to have fathered the God of Wealth, who is worshipped as the bringer of prosperity and good fortune.
Overall, the Sanguan Dadi played a crucial role in Chinese mythology and Taoism. As some of the highest-ranking deities in the belief system, they were responsible for maintaining the balance of the universe and ensuring that everything ran smoothly. Their legacy continues to be felt in Chinese culture today, as many people still worship them and ask for their blessings.
Mythology
Legends
According to Chinese mythology, the Sanguan Dadi are three emperor officials who lord over the Earth under the command of the Jade Emperor. The Three Great Emperor-Officials are the Heavenly Official, the Earthly Official, and the Water Official. They are some of the highest-ranking deities in the Taoist belief system. They maintain the balance of things in cooperation with the Sanqing.
Cults
The Sanguan Dadi are worshipped by many people in China. People pray to them for good health, wealth, and happiness. They are also worshipped by those who are seeking help with their careers, education, and relationships. There are many temples dedicated to the Sanguan Dadi throughout China.
Influence
The Sanguan Dadi have had a significant influence on Chinese culture and society. They are often depicted in Chinese art and literature. They are also a popular subject in Chinese opera and theater. The Sanguan Dadi are also featured in many Chinese festivals and celebrations.
In conclusion, the Sanguan Dadi are an integral part of Chinese mythology and culture. Their legends, cults, and influence continue to be felt throughout China and beyond.