Deities and Faith
Who are Sheng Zhen Men’s Three Demon-Subduing Sages?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
The Three Demon-Subduing Sages referred to in Sheng Zhen Men are Xuantian Shangdi, Lord Guan, and Zhong Kui. In introducing them, I discuss their respective titles of Heavenly Venerable Who Sweeps Away Demons, Great Emperor Who Subdues Demons, and Great Emperor Who Drives Away Demons. These titles help people understand the qualities associated with their work of subduing demons and helping living beings in our faith.
Xuantian Shangdi has an important place in the demon-subduing work of our school. I have spoken about his mission to subdue demons under the command of the Jade Emperor. We also invoke his help in clearing misfortune and dealing with negative influences such as malicious people and disputes. He presides over our Dragon Boat Festival altar for peace and protection. Through this religious observance, we hope to seek divine help in moving toward good fortune, avoiding harm, and finding peace and blessings.
However, getting to know a deity involves more than remembering a name or knowing that the deity has great power. We also need to understand the deity’s compassion and great vows, and why we ask that deity for help. This gives us a clearer understanding of the purpose of religious work. Holding blessing ceremonies is also a way of bringing that help to people who need it.
When introducing the three sages again later, I also reminded everyone that these are not the only deities who subdue demons. “The Three Demon-Subduing Sages” is the collective name we use when discussing these three deities. It does not mean that other deities cannot help.
From what I have felt when receiving these deities through spirit mediumship, their personalities are not exactly alike. Lord Guan, for example, gives me a sense of courage and resolve. I have also described his guandao as a symbol of cutting through difficulties, emphasizing that it cuts through difficulties, not people. In coming to understand a deity’s power, we should also learn how that deity helps living beings, rather than merely imitate an imposing or forceful manner.