erlang shen wife

In Chinese mythology, Erlang Shen is often depicted as having a wife, though her identity and role can vary depending on the version of the myth. The most widely recognized figure associated with Erlang Shen as his wife is Xiang Xiang (项湘), who is sometimes mentioned in certain Chinese folklore.

Xiang Xiang: The Wife of Erlang Shen

Xiang Xiang is described as a beautiful and virtuous woman. In some versions of the myth, she is portrayed as the daughter of the Yellow Emperor, a legendary figure often regarded as one of the founding figures of Chinese civilization. She is often shown as a supportive and devoted wife to Erlang Shen, playing a role in his various quests and helping him maintain order and justice in the mortal and celestial realms.

However, the stories surrounding her are not as widely known or detailed as those of Erlang Shen himself, and she is less commonly featured in mainstream adaptations of the myth. In some texts, she is only briefly mentioned or is given less prominence compared to other famous figures in Chinese mythology.

Other Sources and Variations

There are also versions where Erlang Shen’s consort is not specifically named, or where other goddesses or female figures from Chinese folklore are linked to him. In some cases, the relationship between Erlang Shen and his wife is used more as a backdrop to highlight his role as a divine warrior and protector.

Mythological Context

In many myths and Chinese legends, gods and goddesses have consorts who symbolize different virtues such as beauty, wisdom, loyalty, and virtue. The relationship between Erlang Shen and his wife may have been introduced to highlight these themes and to show that even the most powerful deities are balanced by the support of their partners.

In summary, Erlang Shen's wife, Xiang Xiang, is a lesser-known figure in Chinese mythology, and her role is not as extensively explored as that of other major mythological characters. However, she still plays a part in illustrating the balance between strength and virtue in Chinese mythological storytelling.

Source:

• Erlang Shen and his family in Chinese mythology (general references)