Xiwangmu

Xiwangmu, also known as the Queen Mother of the West, is a significant figure in Chinese mythology and Daoism. Her origins are traced back to ancient Chinese folklore, where she was initially depicted as a fierce deity associated with the west, pestilence, and death. Over time, her image evolved, and she became a benevolent goddess of immortality and a central figure in Daoist cosmology.

In her later form, Xiwangmu is often portrayed as a beautiful and regal woman residing in a paradise on Mount Kunlun. She is said to possess the peaches of immortality, which grant eternal life to those who consume them. Her celestial garden is a place of great beauty and abundance, guarded by mythical creatures. She is also associated with the Yin aspect of the universe, complementing the male deity Dongwanggong, the King Father of the East.

Xiwangmu plays a crucial role in various legends and myths, notably in the tale of the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, who famously disrupts her grand banquet of immortal peaches. Her worship is widespread, and she is invoked for good fortune, longevity, and protection. Her iconography varies, but she is often depicted with elaborate headdresses and flowing robes, sometimes accompanied by mythical beasts like the Jade Rabbit. Her enduring presence in Chinese culture reflects a complex evolution from a potentially fearsome spirit to a revered deity of the afterlife and cosmic harmony.