June 27, 2015

by Juergen Mueller

Guan Gong

Guān Yǔ (trad. Chinese 關羽 ) * 160; † 220 AD), was a general serving under the warlord Liu Bei in the late Eastern Han dynasty. He played a significant role in the civil war that led to the collapse of the dynasty and the establishment of the state of Shu Han, founded by Liu Bei, in the Three Kingdoms period. As one of the best known Chinese historical figures throughout East Asia, Guan's true life stories have largely given way to fictionalized ones, most of which are found in the historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms or passed down the generations, in which his deeds and moral qualities have been lionized. Guan is respected as an epitome of loyalty and righteousness.

There are no descriptions in the historical records of Guan Yu’s physical appearance, but his beard was mentioned in the Sanguozhi. Traditionally, he is portrayed as a red-faced warrior with a long lush beard. The idea of his red face may have derived from a description of him in the first chapter of the Ming dynasty historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms, where the following passage appears:

He had a dignified aura and looked quite majestic.

Guan Gong is Chinese God of War and known for being very powerful. He is believed to provide people who invite him into their home or at work with both status and protection. Businessmen looking for power or to be treated equally typically seek his help. So, became also God of Business.

Here are some placements and Feng Shui recommendations on how to use Guan Gong sculptures:

• Facing Entranceway: It is believed that a Guan Gong will protect against fraud and embezzlements. This is believed to strengthen business relationships and build loyalty and trust among workers.

• Facing the main entrance: It is believed that Guan Gong will help to keep out any visitors to your home who have negative or ill intentions. He will guard your establishment from embezzlement and con. In addition to this, he will eliminate malignant chi and protect from competitors, providing your establishment with the chance to flourish and obtain monetary gain.

• Northwest: By placing the Guan Gong sculpture here, you will be protected against lies and betrayal. This is recommended for businessmen, or business women who are in a position of power. This placement will attract luck with a mentor, specifically of the adored Gui Ren. This type of luck will bring you a good samaritan or someone kind and helpful who will give you a lending hand or a life-changing push during times of distress, trouble and difficulty; not necessarily in the form of money but also opportunities, wise advice, support, encouragement or simply be there to listen. Doing so will also ensure unity and calm for the family to function, as well as protect the patriarch from any harm.

Note: Never place a Guan Gong sculpture in the bathroom, bedroom or yin energy space; he must be in a place of respect. However, praying to him is not required.

and the other sculptures have the guan dao standing in the back. For homes it is recommended to use the second one, this also ensures there is peace and harmony for everyone in the home as well as protection for the Father (Patriarch).