A Study of The Influence of Xuantian Shangdi’s Image in Bei You Ji on Religious Beliefs

Abstract

     Journey to the North (Bei You Ji), a mythological novel centered on Xuantian Shangdi, was published by the renowned bookseller Yu Xiangdou. The novel narrates the deity’s apotheosis and his subjugation of thirty-six celestial generals. This study aims to delineate the characteristics of Xuantian Shangdi’s portrayal in Journey to the North and examine the potential impact of this literary representation on real-world religious belief. Methodologically, the study employs an imagological approach and close textual analysis to reconstruct Xuantian Shangdi’s image, followed by an anthropological framework to assess its influence on religious faith. The findings reveal that Xuantian Shangdi is depicted as having a refined and dignified appearance, wearing his hair loose with a beard, standing upon a soaring serpent and an eight-trigram turtle, and wielding the Seven-Star Sword of the Three Terraces. He is capable of riding five-colored auspicious clouds. His character is marked by compassion, bravery, a strong sense of duty, and altruism. He remains chaste, adheres strictly to divine decrees, respects his master, and demonstrates exceptional strategic acumen. Additionally, he possesses immense strength, meticulous reasoning skills, adaptability in battle, and a logical and courteous demeanor. His celestial titles, as conferred by the Jade Emperor, include Jinque Huashen Dangmo Tianzun and Hunyuan Jiutian Wanfa Jiaozhu Yuxu Shixiang Xuantian Shangdi. Moreover, the portrayal of Xuantian Shangdi in Journey to the North plays a pivotal role in reinforcing real-world religious belief in him. His divine image fosters the perception that he possesses the power to assist devotees in overcoming hardships, exorcising malevolent spirits, averting natural calamities, repelling external threats, and safeguarding homes. Furthermore, his narrative of attaining immortality through ascetic cultivation inspires adherents to embrace Daoism, emulate his spiritual journey, and commit to self-cultivation. This study not only explores Xuantian Shangdi’s divine attributes but also investigates how his literary depiction influences religious practice, thereby advancing the discourse on the interplay between literary representations and faith. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the practical significance of religious literature and Daoism’s contemporary relevance, ultimately fostering the preservation and transmission of Daoist culture. Additionally, this research provides valuable insights for the creative industries, including religious art, film, and gaming, facilitating the broader dissemination of Xuantian Shangdi’s image in modern cultural contexts.