PiXiu

PiXiu is a mythical creature in Chinese tradition, often regarded as a symbol of wealth attraction and prosperity. It is believed to possess the magical ability to swallow treasures and spit out riches, drawing wealth and protecting it from external disturbances. In Feng Shui, PiXiu is considered a bringer of good fortune, capable of warding off evil spirits and safeguarding the flow of wealth in both homes and businesses. Due to its powerful ability to protect and attract wealth, PiXiu is widely used as a good luck charm for those seeking financial success and prosperity.

1. The Basic Concept of PiXiu

1.1 Definition of PiXiu

PiXiu, as a mythical divine beast, initially did not have a clear definition. Its concept gradually took shape as history evolved. PiXiu is primarily associated with “exorcising evil”—that is, driving away evil forces and protecting people from disasters—while also symbolizing wealth and prosperity.

• Exorcising Evil: Pixiu has a powerful ability to ward off evil and avert misfortune. In ancient belief systems, evil forces and ghosts were often seen as the root causes of disasters, and Pixiu was endowed with the mission of eliminating these negative energies. As a result, Pixiu became a symbol of protection in ancient households, particularly for dealing with bad luck and calamities.
• Attracting Wealth and Prosperity: PiXiu is also known for its role as a wealth-bringing divine beast. Ancients believed that PiXiu could absorb wealth, especially precious metals, jewelry, and gems. Not only would it bring wealth, but it would also “guard wealth” and prevent it from being lost.
• “Does Not Eat Mortal Food”: This characteristic emphasizes PiXiu’s unique appetite for wealth such as gold and jewels. PiXiu is a “predator” in a virtual food chain, only consuming “spiritual energy” or “wealth,” and does not partake in human food. This trait gives it a kind of “purity,” meaning it does not interfere with daily human life and focuses solely on guarding financial prosperity.

1.2 Physical Characteristics of PiXiu

The design of PiXiu’s appearance is both mysterious and symbolic. By observing its physical traits, we can better understand its mythological background and cultural meaning. Below are its key physical features:

• Dragon Head: The dragon is an ultimate symbol in Chinese culture, representing destiny, power, and divinity. As a symbol of imperial authority, PiXiu, with its dragon head, naturally embodies immense divine power and protective strength. Its dragon head symbolizes mystical forces and serves to suppress evil energies. The dragon head typically has prominent details such as whiskers and horns, giving it a majestic and inviolable aura.
• Lion Body: The lion is a common symbol of courage, power, and protection in Chinese culture, especially in front of temples and tombs where “stone lions” are placed to guard and ward off evil. The lion body of PiXiu signifies its strong protective function and reflects its role as a guardian beast. The body is typically muscular, with distinct muscle lines, conveying a sense of strength and intimidation. The lion’s face is regal, with bright, piercing eyes.
• Horse Tail: The horse symbolizes speed, agility, and strength in ancient Chinese culture. The PiXiu with a horse’s tail can quickly respond to various situations, protecting wealth from harm. Its tail symbolizes swift reactions and rapid actions. The tail is typically long and powerful, exuding a dynamic beauty, representing both power and speed.
• Powerful Limbs: Strong limbs signify PiXiu’s great mobility, enabling it to swiftly protect and defend. Its sturdy limbs also represent its potent protective capabilities. PiXiu’s limbs are typically thick and muscular, with sharp claws, exuding an aura full of strength.

1.3 The Role of PiXiu in Mythology

In Chinese traditional mythology, PiXiu usually holds a prominent position, especially in folk beliefs and Feng Shui practices.

• Exorcising Evil and Averting Misfortune: As mentioned earlier, one of PiXiu’s original functions is to expel evil spirits and protect homes and territories from bad fortune and disasters. It is regarded as an “exorcising divine beast,” and in both mythological tales and folk Feng Shui, PiXiu is believed to eliminate disasters and bring peace.
• Guarding Wealth: PiXiu has the ability to absorb wealth. According to certain mythological stories, PiXiu is particularly fond of consuming gold, silver, and jewels. It not only attracts wealth but also “guards” it. PiXiu statues or ornaments are commonly placed in homes or offices to invite prosperity. In some legends, PiXiu is said to “devour” wealth and bring it to its owner.
• Loyalty and Protection: In some versions of the story, PiXiu is depicted as a loyal guardian of emperors. It always protects the royal palace, noble treasures, or national security, faithfully guarding valuable resources. This loyalty is also used to symbolize the protection of financial and personal interests in modern society.
• Legendary Origins: The origins of PiXiu are rooted in multiple versions of legend. The most well-known story is that PiXiu is one of the nine sons of the dragon, but because of its insatiable greed, it devoured a vast amount of wealth, which led to divine punishment. The gods decreed that PiXiu could no longer eat anything except gold, silver, and jewels. Due to its enormous “appetite,” PiXiu also came to symbolize the endless accumulation of wealth.

2. The Historical Origins of PiXiu

2.1 Legends and Origins of PiXiu

The origin of PiXiu can be traced back to ancient Chinese myths. Although different versions of the story exist, PiXiu, as a mysterious divine beast, has a long history.

• One of the Nine Sons of the Dragon: One of the most widely circulated legends is that PiXiu is one of the nine sons of the dragon. In ancient Chinese mythology, the dragon has nine sons, each with different characteristics and symbolic meanings. PiXiu is usually seen as one of these divine beasts with a special function.
It is said that the nine sons of the dragon each have magical abilities. Some enjoy eating gold, silver, and jewels, while others have strong protective powers. PiXiu, with its greed, consumes only precious metals and gems and does not eat human food. This characteristic later became regarded in Feng Shui as a symbol of attracting wealth and prosperity.
Because of its greed, PiXiu’s mouth was sealed, and it was only allowed to consume wealth and not anything else. This legend reinforced PiXiu’s association with wealth and fortune, further solidifying its status in folk culture.

• Inheritance of Ancient Divine Beasts: In the ancient Chinese mythological system, divine beasts similar to PiXiu were recorded as early as the Shang and Zhou dynasties. These creatures were often associated with religious rituals, sacrificial activities, and royal symbols such as seals and vessels. Although the specific forms of these divine beasts varied, they generally had strong protective functions. PiXiu, as one of these beasts, was considered to have the ability to guard homes and ward off evil spirits.

• Integration with Taoism and Feng Shui: In Taoism and Feng Shui, PiXiu occupies an important position. In Taoism, PiXiu is not only a protective deity but also plays a role in dissipating harmful energies and averting disasters. As Feng Shui gained prominence, PiXiu became widely used in home décor as a symbol to ward off evil and protect the household. Ancient Feng Shui masters would advise people to place PiXiu statues in their homes, particularly in the wealth area, to ensure financial success.

2.2 Cultural Background and Evolution of PiXiu

As a cultural symbol, PiXiu has gone through a long process of evolution in Chinese history. From the early mythological stories to folk beliefs, and then to its widespread use in Feng Shui and modern society, PiXiu’s image has become deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness. The following are the main developmental stages of PiXiu’s cultural background:

• Pre-Qin Mythological Legends: During the pre-Qin period, legends about dragons and other divine beasts already existed. In early records, PiXiu had not yet become an independent divine beast; its image may have been a fusion of features from dragons, lions, horses, and other creatures. At this time, PiXiu’s main function was protection and exorcism, without yet symbolizing wealth.

• Widespread Popularity During the Han and Tang Dynasties: By the Han and Tang dynasties, PiXiu gradually became a protective charm, particularly in royal palaces and tombs where PiXiu statues and images appeared frequently. During this period, PiXiu not only represented imperial authority but also became a symbol for guarding homes and protecting wealth. In the Tang dynasty, with the emperor’s focus on Feng Shui, PiXiu’s cultural significance became more clearly defined, and it was used to prevent misfortune and disaster.

• Application in Feng Shui During the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties: In the Song and Yuan periods, Feng Shui began to gain popularity. Particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties, Feng Shui became closely integrated with everyday life. Feng Shui masters would recommend placing PiXiu statues in homes or businesses to enhance fortune and ensure financial success. During this time, PiXiu’s functions of attracting wealth and exorcising evil were further emphasized, and it became one of the most significant symbols in folk beliefs.

• Modern Use: In modern times, PiXiu’s image is no longer confined to traditional cultural contexts. With the development of globalization, more people around the world have come to understand and adopt PiXiu’s culture, especially in the business world, where PiXiu is widely seen as a symbol of wealth and good fortune. Modern individuals enjoy wearing PiXiu jewelry, believing it can enhance their financial luck and career prospects.

2.3 PiXiu’s Relationship with Other Divine Beasts

PiXiu is not the only divine beast; it has certain connections and distinctions with other divine beasts that serve similar functions.

• Relationship with the Dragon: PiXiu is generally regarded as one of the nine sons of the dragon, thus naturally having a close relationship with the dragon. The dragon is an important symbol in Chinese culture, representing strength, authority, and divinity. As a dragon offspring, PiXiu inherits the dragon’s mystical qualities, but its function is more focused on protection, wealth, and exorcism.

• Relationship with the Lion: PiXiu’s appearance bears some resemblance to that of a lion, particularly its lion-like body. Lions in Chinese culture symbolize courage and strength and are commonly placed at the entrance of temples and palaces to guard and exorcise evil spirits. PiXiu, as a divine beast similar to a lion, serves similar functions, particularly in guarding wealth and protecting homes.

• Relationship with the Qilin: The Qilin is another divine beast with auspicious symbolism, often seen as a harbinger of peace and prosperity. Unlike the Qilin, PiXiu’s characteristics are more directly related to wealth and exorcism. Although they differ in function, both PiXiu and the Qilin are considered divine beasts that bring good fortune in folk beliefs.

• Relationship with Exorcising Beasts: In ancient temples and palaces, there were often beasts specifically used for exorcising evil, typically with a formidable appearance that instilled a sense of awe. PiXiu shares a similar function with these beasts, being used to protect homes and wealth, and to ward off evil and disaster.

3. Symbolism of the PiXiu

3.1 Symbol of Wealth and Prosperity

The most well-known symbolism of the PiXiu is its association with wealth and prosperity. Since ancient times, PiXiu has been regarded as a mythical creature capable of attracting wealth and treasures. This symbolism is deeply rooted in people’s minds, making it an indispensable feng shui item in many homes and shops.

• Attracting Wealth and Prosperity: PiXiu is believed to possess the ability to attract wealth. There is a saying in folk culture: “Wealth flows endlessly, and fortune is smooth,” and especially among merchants and investors, PiXiu is seen as a symbol of “lucky stars shining brightly.” It is thought to draw surrounding wealth to its owner, which is why people place PiXiu statues, jewelry, or other symbolic items in wealth corners, hoping to bring more prosperity.
• Guarding and Accumulating Wealth: Unlike other mythical creatures, PiXiu not only attracts wealth, but it also protects and accumulates wealth. People believe that PiXiu can preserve wealth and prevent it from flowing out. According to legend, PiXiu can only consume gold, silver, and jewels but cannot regurgitate them, making it a guardian of wealth. This trait makes PiXiu especially popular among businesspeople, many of whom wear PiXiu jewelry or place PiXiu statues in their stores’ wealth corners, symbolizing “endless wealth and lasting prosperity.”
• Source of Wealth: Since PiXiu does not eat grains but feeds solely on gold, silver, and jewels, it symbolizes an unconventional method of wealth accumulation, suggesting that wealth does not come from daily labor but is bestowed by heaven. This “heaven-sent wealth” symbolism enhances PiXiu’s mysterious allure, making it a powerful emblem of prosperity.

3.2 Symbol of Loyalty and Protection

Apart from its association with wealth, PiXiu also symbolizes loyalty and protection in Chinese culture. As a mythical creature, PiXiu has played an important role in protecting homes, warding off external enemies, and praying for peace.

• Guarding Homes and Ensuring Safety: In ancient times, PiXiu was commonly used as a guardian spirit for homes. Its powerful ability to ward off evil made it an essential item in feng shui. Many families would place PiXiu statues at doorways, windowsills, or within rooms, believing it could protect the home from malevolent forces, disasters, and misfortune. PiXiu’s protective function is primarily manifested in its ability to drive away bad luck and prevent financial losses or illness.
• Symbol of Loyalty: Some legends depict Pixiu as a loyal guardian, devotedly protecting its master’s home and wealth. In certain stories, Pixiu is even willing to sacrifice everything for its master. This spirit of loyalty is deeply embedded in ancient Chinese culture, making Pixiu a quintessential symbol of loyalty and protection.
• Auspicious and Evil-Repelling: As an evil-repelling creature, Pixiu’s image frequently appears in places where negative energy needs to be dispelled, such as temples, palaces, or at the entrances of homes. Through its powerful ability to ward off evil, it is believed that Pixiu can expel negative energies from homes or shops, ensuring the health and safety of the family members.

3.3 Auspicious Connotations of Pixiu

In traditional Chinese culture, Pixiu is not only a symbol of wealth and protection but also embodies auspiciousness and smoothness. It is regarded as a mythical creature capable of bringing good luck, peace, and prosperity.

• Auspicious and Fortuitous: In ancient times, Pixiu was often used as a symbol of good luck, representing smoothness and success in all endeavors. Especially in feng shui arrangements for homes and shops, Pixiu would be placed in wealth corners to symbolize “auspicious stars shining brightly.” Many people give Pixiu as a gift for the New Year or for grand openings, symbolizing that the coming year will be filled with good fortune and thriving business.
• Dissolving Negative Energy: In feng shui, “sha qi” refers to negative energy that may come from surrounding buildings, environments, or even an individual’s negative emotions. Pixiu is believed to have the power to dissipate sha qi and harmonize the energy flow. Particularly in the corners of a home or on a desk in the wealth corner, placing a Pixiu can effectively neutralize adverse influences, maintaining harmony and smoothness in the household.
• Peace and Longevity: In some beliefs, Pixiu also symbolizes health and longevity. It is seen as a celestial symbol, indicating vitality and energy for its owner. Particularly on the birthdays of elderly family members or at family gatherings, gifting Pixiu jewelry is often intended to bring blessings of health and longevity.

4. Analysis of Pixiu’s Five Elements

In the Chinese Five Elements theory, the five elements—metal, wood, water, fire, and earth—represent various energies in both the natural world and human life. These elements interact through cycles of creation and destruction, influencing not only the natural world but also feng shui practices. As a traditional Chinese auspicious creature, Pixiu’s Five Elements attribute also holds significant meaning.

4.1 Pixiu’s Five Elements Attribute: Metal

In the Five Elements system, Pixiu is primarily classified under the “Metal” attribute, which is reflected in several aspects:

• Symbolism of Metal: Metal in the Five Elements represents wealth, power, and the accumulation of material resources. Metal is often regarded as the most cohesive and contracting element, capable of “gathering” and “consolidating” energy. In feng shui, Metal is associated with wealth accumulation and wealth preservation, which aligns with Pixiu’s function of attracting wealth. Pixiu does not consume grains, instead feeding on gold, silver, and jewels, making its nature closely aligned with Metal’s characteristic of wealth.
• The Relationship Between Metal and Water: In the creation cycle of the Chinese Five Elements, Metal generates Water. Water symbolizes the flow of wealth and energy. Therefore, in feng shui, Pixiu is believed to promote the flow and accumulation of wealth. The Metal attribute of Pixiu helps gather wealth, while its relationship with Water ensures that wealth flows continuously, accumulates, and grows. This means Pixiu not only attracts wealth but also facilitates the ongoing growth of prosperity.
• The Strength of Metal: Metal in the Five Elements symbolizes hardness, strength, and resilience, and is often associated with protection, suppression, and guardianship. Pixiu’s ability to protect wealth and expel evil aligns perfectly with the qualities of Metal. As a representative of Metal, Pixiu’s divine power and deterrent force reflect the strength of Metal, ensuring that wealth remains secure and free from harm.

4.2 Relationship with Other Five Elements

Although Pixiu is classified as Metal, due to the relationships between the Five Elements, Pixiu also has interactions with other elements:

• Metal Generates Water: As mentioned earlier, Metal generates Water. In the creation cycle, Metal brings Water, which represents the movement and growth of wealth. Pixiu’s Metal nature attracts continuous wealth, while Water’s flowing characteristic helps these resources accumulate in life. Through Metal’s strong attraction and Water’s movement, Pixiu ensures that wealth constantly flows in and accumulates.
• Metal Controls Wood: Metal controls Wood, meaning Metal can suppress the growth of Wood. In feng shui, if a place has excessive Wood energy, it can lead to a loss or inability to accumulate wealth. Pixiu’s Metal nature helps mitigate the negative effects of excessive Wood energy. In such environments, placing Pixiu can harmonize the Wood energy, strengthening the accumulation and stability of wealth.
• Metal Controls Earth: Metal also controls Earth, and Earth represents resources and stability. Metal has the “contracting” quality, which helps concentrate resources and protect them from external harm. In home feng shui, if Earth energy is too strong, it can cause the loss of wealth, and in such cases, Pixiu’s Metal attribute can help ensure wealth is preserved and stable by controlling the Earth energy.
• The Relationship Between Metal and Fire: Metal and Fire are in a controlling relationship, with Fire able to melt Metal. However, in feng shui, this relationship is not often emphasized, as Fire typically represents expansion, growth, and energy, while Metal focuses on contraction and consolidation. In practice, the conflict between Fire and Metal does not directly affect Pixiu’s primary function, though feng shui practitioners avoid placing Pixiu in areas with excessive Fire energy, as it may conflict with Pixiu’s Metal attribute.

4.3 Why Pixiu Belongs to Metal Rather Than Other Elements

• Focus on Wealth and Accumulation: Pixiu’s functions and characteristics align perfectly with Metal. Metal represents material wealth, precious metals, and power, and Pixiu is endowed with the mystical ability to “suck in” wealth, making its Five Elements attribute a natural match for Metal. Its strong and consolidating nature matches Metal’s quality of “concentration,” just as Pixiu attracts and solidifies wealth in feng shui.
• Metal’s Stability and Protective Power: Metal not only brings wealth but also symbolizes a firm protective force. Pixiu’s protective function, especially in guarding wealth and driving away evil, corresponds to Metal’s stability and protective qualities. For example, many people place Pixiu as a guardian talisman in their homes or offices to achieve the effects of stabilizing the home and protecting wealth.
• Absence of Wood, Fire, and Earth Characteristics: While Wood, Fire, and Earth each have their symbolic meanings in the Five Elements, these attributes do not align with Pixiu’s nature and functions. For example, Wood symbolizes growth and expansion, which contradicts Pixiu’s characteristic of gathering and consolidating; Fire represents expansion and destruction, which does not match Pixiu’s protective and wealth-guarding functions; Earth focuses on stability and resource accumulation but does not facilitate the “attraction” or “growth” of wealth as Metal does.

5. Feng Shui Applications of Pixiu

5.1 The Role of Pixiu in Home Feng Shui

Pixiu plays a wide range of roles in home Feng Shui, especially in modern homes where it is regarded as a common symbol of good fortune and a wealth guardian. Let’s analyze the specific Feng Shui applications of Pixiu in the home.

• Wealth Corner Placement: In home Feng Shui, the wealth corner refers to the area of the home that is most conducive to gathering wealth. Generally, this area is located on the left side or directly facing the main entrance. According to Feng Shui principles, Pixiu should be placed in the wealth corner to enhance the homeowner’s financial luck, ensuring the accumulation and flow of wealth. Placing Pixiu in this position can attract both regular and unexpected sources of wealth, helping accumulate financial resources in the home.
• Placement at the Entrance: Pixiu is often placed at the entrance or near the front door to act as a “guardian deity” for the doorway. In Feng Shui, the entrance is the point where energy flows in and out, and it is the primary location for attracting wealth. Placing Pixiu at the entrance can help eliminate negative energy around the doorway, preventing harmful Qi (energy) from entering the home, while also promoting the smooth flow of financial fortune. Many people place Pixiu on either side of the entrance, symbolizing the welcoming of wealth and good fortune.
• Bedroom and Living Room Arrangement: In the Feng Shui layout of the bedroom, it is advised not to place Pixiu at the head or foot of the bed, as its energy is strong and could interfere with rest and sleep quality. The ideal placement is near the window or on a desk opposite the bed to promote the flow of wealth. In the living room, especially in corners or opposite the sofa, placing Pixiu helps ensure the steady improvement of household financial luck.
• Avoid Placement in Bathrooms and Kitchens: In Feng Shui, bathrooms and kitchens are considered Yin and damp spaces that are not suitable for placing items related to wealth and Yang energy. Placing Pixiu in these areas would not only disrupt its Feng Shui effects but could also negatively affect the health and fortune of the family members. The best placement for Pixiu is in areas with strong Yang energy and abundant financial Qi.

5.2 Pixiu’s Application in Commercial Feng Shui

For commercial spaces like shops and office environments, where attracting and protecting wealth is essential, Feng Shui plays a critical role. Pixiu, as a symbol of wealth attraction and protection, is widely used in commercial Feng Shui.

• At the Shop Entrance: The entrance of a shop or business is the primary point for wealth to enter. Placing Pixiu near the entrance can effectively attract more customers and clients, as well as wealth from various sources. Pixiu should face the main door or the street, guiding good fortune and wealth into the shop. If the shop is street-facing, placing a pair of Pixiu at the entrance ensures a continuous flow of prosperity.
• Wealth Corner in the Office: The wealth corner in an office is typically located directly in front of the desk or to the left of the workspace. Placing Pixiu in this area helps enhance career prospects, increase leadership capabilities, and boost wealth accumulation. In many company offices, Pixiu is placed to attract wealth, protect finances, and ward off negative energies.
• Number and Direction of Placement: According to Feng Shui principles, there are strict guidelines regarding the number and direction of Pixiu placement. Typically, it is not recommended to place a single Pixiu; instead, a pair should be placed. This is because placing a pair of Pixiu allows them to complement each other’s energy, enhancing their ability to attract wealth and protect finances. Additionally, Pixiu should face outward to symbolize the attraction of wealth and the welcoming of good fortune. If placed on a desk or inside a shop, Pixiu should face the door or a window.

5.3 Wearing and Carrying Pixiu

In addition to its use in home and office Feng Shui layouts, more and more people are choosing to wear Pixiu jewelry or carry Pixiu items as Feng Shui talismans. This not only enhances personal financial luck but also serves to ward off evil and protect safety.

• Wearing Pixiu Jewelry: Common Pixiu jewelry includes Pixiu bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and earrings. Wearing these items can not only enhance the wearer’s wealth luck but also effectively repel negative energy. Especially in areas like work and investments, wearing Pixiu jewelry is believed to bring breakthroughs in one’s career and boost financial fortune. It is generally advised to wear Pixiu jewelry on the left hand, as this side has a smoother energy flow and is better at attracting wealth.
• Carrying Pixiu: If wearing Pixiu jewelry is not convenient, carrying a small Pixiu item or ornament is also a popular method. These can be placed in a wallet, phone pouch, or bag to keep it with you at all times, ensuring the protection of wealth and good fortune. This is especially effective for businesspeople, investors, or frequent travelers, as carrying Pixiu helps stabilize their luck and enhance business prospects.
• Wearing and Usage Precautions: Feng Shui practitioners often advise against sharing Pixiu jewelry, as Pixiu’s protective energy is meant to be specific to the wearer. Sharing it with others may weaken its effect. Additionally, when wearing Pixiu jewelry, one should treat it with respect and avoid casually touching or bumping it, as this could affect its Feng Shui energy.

5.4 Pixiu’s Taboo and Cautions

While Pixiu is a highly beneficial symbol, incorrect usage or placement could potentially lead to negative effects. Therefore, understanding Pixiu’s taboos and cautions is very important.

• Taboo of the Mouth: Although Pixiu has powerful wealth-attracting abilities, it should not be depicted as eating or receiving excessive interference. When placing Pixiu, its mouth should not face inward toward oneself or the ground. The mouth should face outward, allowing Pixiu to “swallow wealth” without regurgitating it.
• Avoid Unclean Areas: Pixiu should not be placed in unclean spaces, such as toilets or trash bins. Dirty places can disrupt Pixiu’s energy, preventing it from performing its wealth-attracting and wealth-protecting functions.
• Avoid Sharing: As mentioned earlier, Pixiu’s energy should be dedicated to one person, and sharing it with others should be avoided, especially if it has been specifically used for the protection of a particular individual.
• Avoid Improper Intentions: Pixiu’s divine nature is closely tied to wealth, and using it purely for vanity or speculative purposes may lead to adverse effects. When using Pixiu, one should have a positive mindset, treating wealth with respect and sincerity, in order to achieve positive Feng Shui outcomes.