Zhao Gongming
The Rightful God of Wealth · A Millennium Legend
Zhao Gongming, originally named Lang and styled Gongming, was born on the 15th day of the 3rd lunar month in the 25th year of King Wu Ding's reign (Shang Dynasty).
He cultivated the Dao and attained immortality beneath Mount Zhongnan, presiding over the celestial treasury, blessing legitimate wealth, dispelling obstacles, and safeguarding honest merchants.
<< Mortal Cultivation: Unravelling Mysteries Beneath Mount Zhongnan
Zhao Gongming was originally a mortal dwelling beneath Mount Zhongnan during the Qin Dynasty. Intelligent and upright from childhood, he possessed a compassionate heart. Witnessing the world's suffering, he resolved to cultivate himself to aid humanity. He became a disciple of the Xuantan Immortal, devoting himself to understanding the Dao.
He established his Taoist sanctuary within Luofu Cave on Mount Emei, mastering magical arts and commercial wisdom. As a grain store official, he pioneered early currency: polished shells and jade stones engraved with symbols, laying foundations for future commercial development.
Core of Cultivation
- • Compassionate heart, aspiration to help humanity
- • Dedicated practice, mastery of Dao and magic
- • Profound understanding of commercial principles
<< The Black Tiger & Golden Whip: Mighty Beasts at His Side
Black Tiger Mount
While cultivating in the mountains, Zhao Gongming subdued a ferocious black tiger attacking people. The black tiger symbolises ferocity and evil-dispelling power. Its black colour (associated with water) aligns with "wealth flowing like water," safeguarding financial prosperity and deterring malevolent forces.
Nine-Section Golden Whip
Also known as the Sea-Wrapping Whip, it is a weapon for subduing demons and a symbol of strict law enforcement. It embodies Zhao Gongming's principle of "punishing evil and promoting virtue," showing no leniency to the corrupt while supporting those of integrity.
<< The Investiture of the Gods: Loyalty & Righteousness Eternal
Amidst the Shang-Zhou transition, Zhao Gongming aided the Shang at his friend Wen Zhong's call. Armed with treasures like the Sea-Calming Pearl and Dragon-Binding Rope, he rode a black tiger clad in golden armour, overwhelming enemies—even immortals of the Xiantiao Sect. Yet the Shang's destiny ended, and he fell in battle.
Jiang Ziya conferred upon him the title: "Golden Dragon Ruyi Zhengyi Dragon-Tiger Mystic Altar True Lord," presiding over earthly wealth.
Four Subordinate Deities
Cao Bao
Treasure-Summoning Heavenly Lord
Xiao Sheng
Treasure-Receiving Heavenly Lord
Chen Jiugong
Wealth-Summoning Messenger
Yao Shaosi
Prosperity Divine Official
<< Evolution of Divinity: From Plague God to Wealth Deity
Early Depictions (Northern & Southern Dynasties)
One of the Five Plague Messengers, presiding over epidemics and inspiring dread.
Daoist Protector (After Tang Dynasty)
One of the Four Great Generals, exorcising demons, protecting the Dao, and safeguarding the realm.
Wealth Deity (Since Ming Dynasty)
Firmly established by Investiture of the Gods, worshipped by merchants and folk for wealth and peace.
<< Guardian of the Treasury: Bestowing Honest Wealth
As the "Rightful God of Wealth," Zhao Gongming guards celestial and earthly treasuries. He bestows riches with principles, acting as an integrity-driven guardian of wealth.
Guardian of Righteous Wealth
Blesses diligent, honest, and law-abiding individuals; encourages legitimate wealth acquisition.
Clearing Obstacles
Dispels villains, evil spirits, and calamities; shields honest entrepreneurs from pitfalls.
Steward of the Treasury
Oversees wealth storage and circulation; ensures prudent use to prevent waste.
Supreme Ruler of Five Paths
Commands the Five Paths of Wealth Gods; core of wealth deity worship.
<< Revered by All: China's Premier Wealth Deity
Zhao Gongming is the most venerated Wealth God in China due to his multifaceted roles: guardian of wealth, exorcist, and symbol of loyalty. He fulfils people's aspirations for affluence, peace, and moral integrity.
His tale embodies the Chinese dual belief in wealth and morality—riches from righteous means, safeguarded by loyalty, and used with benevolence. This is why he has enjoyed enduring popularity for centuries.
Important Worship Days
15th Day of 3rd Lunar Month
Zhao Gongming's Birthday
5th Day of 1st Lunar Month
Welcoming the God of Wealth
