Feng Bo
Feng Bo, the Wind Deity, also known as the Wind Master, Fei Lian, and Ji Bo among others, has been an object of worship in ancient China from its earliest days. “Zhou Li” (“Rites of Zhou”) in its “Da Zong Bo” section makes mention of offerings to Si Zhong, Si Ming, Wind Master, and Rain Master, with Zheng Xuan interpreting, “The Wind Master is Ji,” implying “When the moon departs Ji, wind stirs the sands, hence it is recognized that the Wind Master presides over it.” In the Eastern Han Dynasty, Cai Yong’s “Du Duan” remarks, “The god Feng Bo is the Ji star, whose celestial image can summon winds.” The Ji star, belonging to one of the seven lodges in the eastern quadrant of the Chinese lunar mansions, thereby came to symbolize the wind deity. Moreover, in the Chu region, Feng Bo was referred to as Fei Lian. Qu Yuan’s “Li Sao” features the verse, “With Shu leading the way and Fei Lian rushing to join,” Jin Zhuo comments on Fei Lian, “It has the body of a deer, the head of a sparrow, antlers, and a tail of a snake with leopard patterns.” Gao You’s commentary describes Fei Lian as “a beast known for its long hair and wings,” embodying the deity in animal form. Since the Tang and Song dynasties, Feng Bo has been variably referred to as “Feng Yi,” “Feng Yi,” and “Feng Hou,” sometimes portrayed as a goddess. Nonetheless, the association of Feng Bo with the Ji star has predominantly prevailed.
The duty of Feng Bo encompasses “governing the directions and forces of the eight winds, thereby regulating the climate influenced by the five elemental cycles.” Wind, as a pivotal element of the climate, plays an essential role in the seasons and the nurturing of life. “Feng Su Tong Yi” (“Comprehensive Meaning of Customs”) in its “Si Dian” section states that Feng Bo “invigorates with thunder and moistens with wind and rain, fostering all beings, contributing significantly to humanity. Sovereigns make offerings in acknowledgment of these merits.”
Worship of Feng Bo was integrated into the state’s ceremonial rituals from the Qin and Han dynasties onward. “Tang Hui Yao” notes that the veneration of Feng Bo was elevated to central rites, with “each jurisdiction establishing an altar” for shared worship with the emperor. In Daoist temples and sanctuaries, halls are designated for venerating Feng Bo, Rain Master, Lei Gong, and Dian Mu. The effigy of Feng Bo is typically envisioned as a venerable elder with flowing white hair, wielding a wheel in his left hand and a fan in his right, symbolizing his mastery over the winds, known as Feng Bo Fang Tian Jun. Feng Bo’s divine birthday falls on the fifth day of the tenth lunar month. Common Daoist practitioners, whose lives and professions are intimately connected with “wind,” might individually honor Feng Bo, while the broader Daoist community primarily worships Feng Bo during substantial fasting and offering rites.