Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

TODAY, I’m going to talk about two of the more obscure guardian animals that many people new to feng shui are unfamiliar with – the Chi-ling and the Bishou.

Both the Chi-ling and Bishou are connected to legends and stories, as well as a long history. There is evidence of symbols of these animals found during the Han dynasties. The common thread found throughout the stories about the Chi-ling and the Bishou is that they were used for protection.

When emperors and generals were fighting, they asked the gods for help and protection in their battles. They received answers through visions and dreams. It’s possible that these emperors and generals saw images of the Chi-ling and Bishou and were told to use them as symbols in sculpture, on their armor, and on their uniforms. After they did so, they were able to conquer their enemies and protect themselves.

These symbols have been used on palace doors, palace rooftops, special facilities used by the emperor, and on their crowns, jewelry, and clothing. Thus, they are called "immortal animals" or "animals of god." Similarly, in the Western world, such as Greek mythology, there are similar guardian animals. The unicorn, Pegasus, chimera, griffin, and guardian forest animals can all be found on sacred buildings in the West.

The Chi-ling is a combination of the three strongest animals. It has the horns and scales of a dragon; the head of a lion; and the body shape of a horse. Today, the Chi-ling is used primarily to release negative energy and absorb positive energy. It is placed every year to release the negative energy of accidents, instability, unexpected money loss, lawsuit, bankruptcy, or illness that the 5 Star, or san sha, can bring. Ideally, your Chi-lings should have jade rings and special mantra charms inside their mouths to release specific annual negative energies.

This year, the 5 star is in the North so we recommend the Chi-ling be placed in the north and facing north. They should be in a set of three Chi-lings because on the feng shui compass, every orientation is divided into three additional sectors. Each of the three Chi-lings in your set protects one of the three sectors within the orientation.