Pi Xiu (貔貅), or Pi Yao in some modern translations is one of the celestial beings in Chinese mythology besides the four major celestial beings (Azure Dragon of the East, the Vermilion Bird of the South, the White Tiger of the West, and the Black Tortoise of the North).
Pi Yao statue is also one of the most popular charms in Feng Shui and is believed to be an influential creature for wealth with a voracious appetite for jewels, gold, and silver.
Here, we will discuss all you need to know about Pi Yao or Pi Xiu: its history/origins, what it symbolizes, and its Feng Shui applications.
Origins of Pi Yao/Pi Xiu
According to ancient Chinese mythology, Pi Xiu is the ninth son of the Azure Dragon and is especially believed to be an auspicious celestial animal that brings wealth fortune, and prosperity.
In Chinese numerology, the number 9 is considered the greatest and the most powerful number, and as the ninth son, the Pi Xiu is also considered the most powerful child of the dragon.
The Pi Xiu looks like a stout and strong, winged lion with one or two antlers that are thick and long, hoofs of a horse, and a lion/dog-like face with a thick and strong tail. It has the main characteristics of a Lion and a Dog: the bravery of a lion, and the loyalty of a dog.
Pi Xiu is said to be a celestial creature that frequently travels through Heaven and Earth. Besides its ability to enhance wealth, the Pi Yao is also known to protect properties and ward off evil energies.
Pi Xiu in Chinese Culture
Pi Xiu, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, is more than just a Feng Shui artifact; it holds a significant place in folklore, traditions, and symbolism. The creature embodies values such as loyalty, courage, and prosperity and has been revered for centuries as a celestial being capable of bridging the human and divine realms.
In ancient China, Pi Xiu statues were often placed in imperial palaces and tombs to symbolize protection and ensure the eternal prosperity of the dynasty. It was believed that Pi Xiu could ward off evil spirits and safeguard emperors and their legacies. Archaeological findings show Pi Xiu motifs intricately carved on jade, bronze, and ceramics, indicating their importance in both decorative and spiritual contexts.
Symbol of Wealth and Protection
Pi Xiu is particularly associated with attracting and guarding wealth, which aligns with the cultural emphasis on financial stability and generational prosperity. In traditional Chinese households, Pi Xiu statues were often positioned to protect family wealth and prevent misfortune. The belief that Pi Xiu could devour riches without releasing them reinforced its image as a guardian of abundance.
Representation in Art and Literature
Pi Xiu frequently appears in Chinese art, from traditional paintings to modern sculptures. Its image, with a lion-like body and imposing wings, symbolizes power and authority. In classical literature and poetry, Pi Xiu is sometimes described as a guardian against chaos, an allegory for societal harmony and stability.
Modern-Day Reverence
In contemporary China, Pi Xiu remains a popular cultural icon. Beyond its Feng Shui applications, it is regarded as a token of good luck and a cherished gift during milestones, such as weddings, business openings, and housewarmings. Jewelry and ornaments featuring Pi Xiu are widely worn not only as fashion statements but also as personal talismans for fortune and protection.
In addition, during major Chinese festivals, such as the Lunar New Year, Pi Xiu is prominently featured in decorations, rituals, and blessings. Many families place a Pi Xiu near their entrances or on altars to usher in wealth and ward off inauspicious energies. Some also conduct ceremonies involving incense, fruits, and coins to “awaken” the Pi Xiu’s energy, ensuring a prosperous year ahead.
Related reading: “Chinese Good Luck Charms To Bring Good Fortune” –Opens in new tab
The Two Types of Pi Xiu: Bìxié (邪) and Tiānlù (天)
Pi Xiu, also known as Pi Yao, is traditionally categorized into two types: Bìxié (female Pi Xiu) and Tiānlù (male Pi Xiu). These distinctions, though not always emphasized in modern interpretations, carry unique symbolism and significance in Feng Shui and Chinese mythology.
Bìxié (避邪) – The Protector Against Evil
- Role and Symbolism: Bìxié, the female Pi Xiu, is primarily associated with warding off evil and protecting its owner from negative energies. The term “Bìxié” translates to “warding off evil spirits,” emphasizing its role as a spiritual guardian.
- Appearance: It is typically depicted with two antlers, signifying its ability to absorb and neutralize harmful energies from multiple directions.
- Function in Feng Shui: Bìxié is used as a Feng Shui cure for those experiencing bad luck, negative influences, or hostile environments. It is believed to act as a shield, ensuring peace and stability in the household or workplace.
- Placement: This type of Pi Xiu is often placed in areas prone to negative energy, such as entryways or corners with stagnant qi, to create a protective barrier.
Tiānlù (天祿) – The Wealth Attractor
- Role and Symbolism: Tiānlù, the male Pi Xiu, is known for its strong association with attracting wealth and prosperity. Its name, “Tiānlù,” can be interpreted as “heavenly wealth,” symbolizing its role in gathering riches from all directions.
- Appearance: Tiānlù is generally depicted with a single antler, which represents focused intent and relentless pursuit of financial success.
- Function in Feng Shui: Tiānlù is a favorite among business owners, entrepreneurs, and investors who wish to enhance their financial opportunities. It is believed to actively seek out wealth, ensuring its owner enjoys continuous financial growth.
- Placement: Tiānlù is often placed in the wealth area of a home or business (identified by Feng Shui principles) or in prominent spaces like the living room to attract prosperity.
Modern Interpretations
While the distinction between Bìxié and Tiānlù was traditionally significant, modern Pi Xiu representations often combine these qualities into a single figure. Today, many Feng Shui practitioners regard Pi Xiu statues or accessories as embodying both protective and wealth-attracting energies, regardless of gender.
Some retailers continue to sell Pi Xiu in pairs, claiming that one serves as a wealth seeker (male) while the other guards the amassed fortune (female). For those who embrace this interpretation, pairing a Bìxié and a Tiānlù ensures a balanced flow of protection and prosperity.
Stories and Legends Surrounding Pi Xiu
Pi Xiu’s mythical origins are steeped in captivating stories that reflect its multifaceted symbolism as a celestial guardian, wealth attractor, and protector against evil. These tales not only emphasize the creature’s power but also its moral and spiritual significance in Chinese culture.
The Jade Emperor’s Punishment
One of the most famous legends about Pi Xiu involves its punishment by the Jade Emperor. According to the story, Pi Xiu once disobeyed the heavenly rules and consumed treasures from the heavens and earth without permission. The Jade Emperor, angered by this transgression, punished Pi Xiu by sealing its anus, allowing it only to intake wealth without releasing it. This act turned Pi Xiu into a symbol of accumulating and retaining prosperity, which is why it is often depicted as having a stout, rounded belly filled with treasures.
The Celestial Wealth Collector
Another legend tells of Pi Xiu’s unique ability to roam freely between the realms of heaven, earth, and the underworld. In doing so, Pi Xiu gathered valuable energies and treasures from all three realms, which it then delivered to its loyal followers. This tale reinforced the belief that Pi Xiu could help individuals tap into universal abundance and attract blessings from all directions.
Protector of the Emperor
Pi Xiu’s role as a guardian is highlighted in a story about its presence in ancient Chinese imperial courts. It is said that an emperor in the Ming Dynasty once dreamt of a powerful creature that protected his palace from invading forces. Inspired by the vision, the emperor commissioned the construction of Pi Xiu statues, placing them at palace gates and on rooftops. These statues were believed to repel negative energies and safeguard the empire’s stability.
Check out some “Pi Yao” designs – Opens in new tab
Pi Xiu and the Grand Duke (Tai Sui)
In Feng Shui folklore, Pi Xiu is closely tied to the Grand Duke, a powerful annual energy that can bring misfortune if offended. One legend suggests that Pi Xiu was specifically appointed by the heavens to neutralize the Grand Duke’s negative influence. As a result, Pi Xiu became a favored Feng Shui cure for addressing conflicts with Tai Sui, offering both spiritual protection and practical guidance for mitigating bad luck.
The Loyalty of Pi Xiu
A lesser-known tale describes Pi Xiu’s unwavering loyalty to its master. According to this story, a wealthy merchant once saved a Pi Xiu from harm and offered it sanctuary. In gratitude, the Pi Xiu vowed to serve the merchant and ensured his financial success for generations. This story underscores Pi Xiu’s association with loyalty and its enduring role as a protector of wealth and prosperity.
The Legend of Pi Xiu and the Dragons
As the ninth son of the Azure Dragon, Pi Xiu shares a deep connection with its celestial family. A popular legend tells of a time when the dragons faced a dire threat from an evil spirit. Pi Xiu courageously defended its siblings, using its strength and ability to devour negative energies to save them. This act of bravery earned Pi Xiu its reputation as a fierce protector and a guardian against malevolent forces.
Pi Xiu or Pi Yao in Feng Shui
While there are many Feng Shui charms and cures that are more popular than Pi Xiu or Pi Yao, the Pi Xiu is unique in being the only Feng Shui cure in the Flying Stars school of Feng Shui that is effective against the Grand Duke (Tai Sui) negative energy.
However, a general application of the Pi Xiu in Feng Shui is to attract wealth and protect the owners from bad luck, especially from accidents related to wealth. The Pi Xiu can be used alone or in pairs, and is also believed to be effective in warding off evil spirits and protecting the property from harm.
You can find Pi Xiu in the form of statues, which are commonly placed in front of a house or business (to guard the property), and also in the form of accessories like bracelets, keychains, and other accessories.
Want to learn more about Feng Shui? Check out our suggestions: Feng Shui Bookshelf – Opens in new tab
How To Activate Your Pi Xiu?
Step 1: A real sterling silver bowl is required.
If your Pi Xiu is in the form of a bracelet, then you can place your bracelet in it whenever you reach your home/office. If possible you should place one bowl at home and another at the office to rest the Pi Xiu.
If it’s a Pi Xiu statue, then you can place the silver bowl bestie the Pi Xiu.
Step 2: fill the silver bowl with precious items like gold/silver ingots, gems, and coins. Don’t use cash notes because the Pi Xiu is believed to be not attracted to paper notes. The idea is to train your Pi Xiu to snarl these valuables you’ve put in the bowl.
Step 3: Change these precious items in your bowl annually, before each Chinese/Lunar New Year.
How Do You Cleanse Pi Xiu?
A general rule of thumb is not to allow others to touch your Pi Xiu, especially strangers (non-family members). When it happens, it’s important to cleanse the Pi Xiu with water right away.
Also, if your Pi Xiu is dusty, then you should clean it with water.
You can put the Pi Xiu under the moonlight’s beam during the Full Moon for purification, or you can use clean rainwater to clean it. You should pack its head with a red cloth before cleaning it.
Burning sage can also help purify your Pi Xiu’s energy. Light the tip of the sage, and let its smoke surround the Pi Xiu for around 5 minutes.
Additional Care Tips
- Avoid Damage: If your Pi Xiu statue or accessory becomes chipped or broken, replace it, as damaged items may affect its Feng Shui energy.
- Daily Interaction: Gently touch or speak to your Pi Xiu daily to strengthen your connection and its effectiveness in drawing positive energy.
- Gift with Care: When gifting a Pi Xiu, ensure the recipient understands its significance and maintenance to avoid misuse.
Pi Xiu Feng Shui Placement
- A classic placement of Pi Xiu is to protect the owner against the negative energy of Tai Sui (Grand Duke). The right positioning for this function is in the direction (Bagua direction) opposite the area affected by the Grand Duke’s energy.
- To attract wealth, Pi Xiu should be displayed as a pair in the house’s or office’s money area or your lucky direction for wealth. You can also place the Pi Xiu in a prominent area of your living room
- You should not place the Pi Xiu in the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom, especially not facing the bed. The Pi Xiu is believed to always aggressively move forward to grab wealth energy and thus might cause nightmares and disturbances when facing the bed.
- Don’t place the Pi Xiu facing the mirrors, since the reflection might stress the Pi Xiu.
- Place the Pi Xiu in front of your front doors as a protection for the house and to attract wealth energy to the house, but do not place the Pi Xiu towards the front door.
- In addition to protecting homes, placing a Pi Xiu in a prominent area of a business premises, such as near the cash register, can symbolize attracting more customers and retaining wealth.
- A Pi Xiu statue can be combined with a wealth ship (another Feng Shui cure) filled with ingots or coins for amplified financial luck.
Related reading: “Chinese Good Luck Charms To Bring Good Fortune” –Opens in new tab
Choosing the Right Pi Xiu
When selecting a Pi Xiu statue or accessory, the details of its craftsmanship are essential:
- Orientation: Pi Xiu with open mouths symbolizes attracting wealth, while closed mouths represent retention.
- Material: Jade is believed to harmonize energy, while metallic finishes (like gold or silver) are associated with amplifying wealth.
- Size: Larger Pi Xiu statues are preferred for homes or businesses, while smaller accessories are ideal for personal use.
End Words
Pi Xiu, with its rich history, mythical allure, and powerful Feng Shui applications, remains a treasured symbol of wealth, protection, and good fortune in Chinese culture. Whether you embrace its legends, use it as a Feng Shui cure, or simply appreciate its artistry, Pi Xiu offers a timeless way to invite prosperity and ward off negativity.
By understanding its origins, meanings, and proper care, you can fully harness the energy of this celestial guardian to enhance your life, home, or business. Let Pi Xiu be a constant reminder of the balance between ambition and protection, a harmonious blend of power and loyalty.
Want to learn more about Feng Shui? Check out our suggestions: Feng Shui Bookshelf – Opens in new tab
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Featured image by Ecelan from Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
