Fu Xiaoqi, one of the Five Blessings Children, was endowed with the energy of the Five Elements and the fortune of the Five Blessings. He transformed into an auspicious gourd seed. From then on, the world had a gourd that symbolized wealth and good fortune and could bring people peace and happiness.
Legends about the gourd have taken many forms throughout history.
Drawing on sources such as the Classic of Mountains and Seas, Records of Strange Beasts, the Extensive Records of the Taiping Era, and folk legends, the author spent three years compiling this collection of wondrous tales about the gourd.
The gourd is an auspicious symbol steeped in Chinese traditional culture. Its name sounds like the words for blessings and prosperity, and it represents the blessings of wealth and success, as well as health and longevity.
Gourds are usually golden yellow, like gold, and thus symbolize wealth. A gourd is made up of two similar halves, one above the other, representing family harmony.
A familiar auspicious treasure, the gourd is also a sacred object that drives away evil spirits and malign influences. It is a magical implement of immortals such as Taishang Laojun and the Immortal of the South Pole, and is closely associated with the Way of the Immortals.
People often keep gourds at home or wear them on their person. They can ward off evil, bring every blessing, attract wealth, and turn one's fortune around.
May all our readers enjoy good health and long lives, peace and prosperity! May good fortune be with you!
