Why Do Families Paste Images of Generals Qin Qiong and Yuchi Jingde on Their Doors During the New Year?
BackDuring the Chinese New Year, many families like to paste images of the two generals, Qin Qiong and Yuchi Jingde, on their doors. But why is this tradition so popular? According to legend, in ancient times, the Dragon King of Jing River (Jinghe Longwang) made a bet with a fortune-teller and violated the laws of heaven. As a result, the Jade Emperor sentenced him to death. The Dragon King appeared in a dream to Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, Li Shimin, and begged him for a pardon. Emperor Taizong agreed.
The next day, however, while Emperor Taizong was playing chess with his outspoken and honest minister Wei Zheng, Wei Zheng suddenly dozed off. In his dream, Wei Zheng killed the Dragon King. The Dragon King's vengeful spirit was furious and blamed Emperor Taizong for breaking his promise. The Dragon King began to haunt the emperor, demanding justice. Emperor Taizong fell seriously ill and even visited the underworld, where the ten kings of hell showed him mercy and allowed him to return to the living world. This story is said to be the origin of the famous Chinese classic Journey to the West (Xi You Ji).
To prevent the Dragon King's ghost from seeking revenge again, Emperor Taizong had the two brave and loyal generals, Qin Qiong and Yuchi Jingde, stand guard at the palace gates. With their protection, the emperor remained safe. Later, Emperor Taizong felt guilty for troubling the two generals and decided to have their images painted and pasted on the palace gates instead. This also kept the Dragon King's ghost at bay.
Over time, this practice spread among the common people. To protect their own homes from evil spirits, families began pasting images of Generals Qin Qiong and Yuchi Jingde on their doors during the New Year. This tradition continues to this day as a symbol of protection and good fortune.