From Mount Zhongnan Scholar to Sacred Ghost Hunter
Zhong Kui (钟馗) was born in Mount Zhongnan (终南山) during the Tang Dynasty. Known for his extraordinary talent in literature and martial arts, he possessed a fierce appearance with "leopard head, round eyes, iron face, and curly beard" (豹头环眼，铁面虬鬓), yet maintained a righteous and upright character.
During the Tang Wude period, Zhong Kui traveled to the capital to take the imperial examinations. Despite his exceptional scholarly abilities, he was rejected due to his unusual appearance. Filled with righteous anger and having no way to serve his country, he chose to sacrifice his life for justice, striking his head against the palace pillars and dying instantly.
Moved by his tragic fate, the Emperor ordered that Zhong Kui be buried with the honors of a top scholar, dressed in red official robes. This act of imperial compassion would later prove prophetic when Zhong Kui returned to serve the realm in supernatural form.
Ancient Tang Dynasty Scroll
During the Tianbao period, Emperor Xuanzong (唐玄宗) fell ill with a mysterious ailment while at Mount Li (骊山). One night, he dreamed of a magnificent figure capturing a small demon, gouging out its eyes, and devouring it completely.
The imposing figure declared: "I am Zhong Kui, who failed the imperial examination. I vow to rid the world of evil spirits for Your Majesty!" Upon awakening, the Emperor found himself completely cured.
Amazed by this divine intervention, Emperor Xuanzong immediately summoned the court painter Wu Daozi (吴道子) to create a painting of Zhong Kui capturing demons exactly as seen in the dream. This artwork became the template for all future depictions of Zhong Kui.
Since the Tang Dynasty, Zhong Kui images have been posted on doors during Chinese New Year alongside door gods Shen Shu and Yu Lei to ward off evil spirits and the mythical Nian beast.
In the Jianghuai region, families hang Zhong Kui portraits during the Dragon Boat Festival to drive away evil spirits and protect their homes from supernatural threats.
Taoism honors Zhong Kui as a door god and judge who drives away ghosts and eliminates evil, officially titled "Sacred Lord of Blessing and House Protection" (赐福镇宅圣君).
Zhong Kui dance (跳钟馗) and Nuo opera performances feature artists wearing masks, official robes, and carrying bats and swords to bring blessings and ward off evil.
Zhong Kui worship is widespread throughout Southeast Asian Chinese communities, with temples and festivals dedicated to his protective powers.
Japan has developed a systematic Zhong Kui belief system with dedicated shrines, roof tiles, straw dolls, and even aircraft named after the ghost hunter.
Today, Zhong Kui images are used in house blessings, business openings, wedding ceremonies, and important celebrations worldwide.
Zhong Kui's mother, from North Fire Lane under Mount Zhongnan, who married Zhong Da and gave birth to Zhong Kui and his sister Zhong Mei'er.
Famous for the "Zhong Kui Marries Off His Sister" legend, where Zhong Kui arranged her marriage to Du Ping to repay his kindness and friendship.
Son of Zhong Mei'er and Du Ping, representing the continuation of Zhong Kui's legacy through family bonds and gratitude.