Zhao Yu

Zhao Yu (趙昱; fl. c. late 6th – early 7th century) was a government official of the Sui dynasty in China who later became a deified figure in Chinese folk religion and Taoism. He is one of the most prominent historical figures believed to be the true identity of the popular deity Erlang Shen, particularly the cult of "Erlang of Guankou" (灌口二郎). He is venerated as a god who provides protection and controls floods.^[1]

Zhao Yu

Life and career

Zhao Yu was born in Qingshan County, Zizhou (modern-day Ziyang, Sichuan). His courtesy name was Zhongming (仲明).^[2] He was known for his righteous character and dedication to his studies from a young age, eventually becoming a Taoist adept on Mount Qingcheng. Recommended for his virtues, he was appointed to serve in the Sui dynasty administration.^[3][4]

His most famous post was as the prefect (太守) of Jiazhou, a region in modern-day Leshan, Sichuan, that was plagued by severe flooding from the Jialing River. According to local chronicles and legends, a monstrous flood dragon (jiao 蛟) was believed to be responsible for the disaster. Determined to end the people's suffering, Zhao Yu, accompanied by thousands of local men, plunged into the river with a double-edged sword and, after a fierce battle, vanquished the beast. This act reportedly caused the floods to subside permanently.^[3]

As a governor, Zhao Yu was celebrated for his integrity and compassion. He lived an ascetic life, refusing to accept bribes or extravagant gifts. When Emperor Yang of Sui heard of his deed and offered him a substantial reward, Zhao Yu declined, asking instead that the funds be used for the welfare of his people. He later resigned from his post and returned to a quiet life of spiritual cultivation.^[3]

Death and deification

Statue of Erlang inside Erwang Temple, at Dujiangyan, Sichuan

Zhao Yu died during the Daye (大業) era (605–618 CE). The people of Jiazhou were devastated by his death and built a temple in his honor. A miracle was said to have occurred during his funeral: his coffin was found to be empty, and he was later seen by many riding a white horse on Mount Qingcheng, confirming the populace's belief that he had ascended to godhood and become an immortal (xian).^[5]

His cult grew rapidly around Jiazhou, where he was revered as a benevolent river god. The temple established at the River Mouth (Guankou) in his honor became the center of his worship. He was granted posthumous titles by various emperors of the Tang, Song, and Yuan dynasties, solidifying his status as an officially recognized deity.^[6]

Emperor Taizong of the Tang dynasty bestowed upon him the title "Great General of Divine Valor" (神勇大將軍), and a temple was established at Guankou (in modern-day Sichuan) for his worship. During the An Lushan Rebellion, Emperor Xuanzong of Tang fled to the region of Shu (Sichuan) and granted him the title "King of Utmost Sincerity" (赤誠王). In the reign of Emperor Zhenzong of Song, following the efficacy of Zhang Yong [zh]'s prayers, his title was changed to "Pure Source, Wondrous Tao, True Lord" (清源妙道眞君).^[7]

Over time, Zhao Yu's identity merged with that of Erlang Shen, a powerful god in the Chinese pantheon with similar attributes, particularly as a vanquisher of demons and controller of floods. The legend of Zhao Yu slaying the flood dragon became a key narrative for the Erlang Shen. This syncretism was so complete that many temples dedicated to Erlang Shen in the Sichuan region recognize Zhao Yu as the deity's true historical form. Other historical figures like Li Bing and Yang Jian (from Investiture of the Gods) are also associated with Erlang Shen, but Zhao Yu remains the most prominent candidate in Sichuan's local traditions.^[1][8]