Yuanming Daomu Tianzun, also known as "Xiantian Daomu" (Primordial Taoist Mother) and "Doumu (Doulao) Yuanjun" (Original Lord of the Great Mother of the Dipper), is a celestial deity in
Taoism who presides over life, death, sin, and blessings in the human world.
According to Taoist scriptures, Yuanming Daomu Tianzun was originally named "Ziguang Furen" (Lady of Purple Light) and gave birth to nine sons (known as the Nine Emperors), namely: the Jade Emperor, Ziwei Emperor, Tanlang (Greedy Wolf), Jumen (Giant Gate), Lucun (Treasure Storage), Wenqu (Literary Star), Lianzhen (Uncorrupted Virtue), Wuqu (Martial Star), and Pojun (Breaking Army).
Yuanming Daomu Tianzun has a very majestic and peculiar appearance: there is a third eye on the forehead, and four heads on the shoulders. The so-called four heads are actually one head with faces on four sides. There are four arms growing on each side of the upper body, totaling eight arms. The two hands in the middle are clasped in a mudra, while the other hands hold the sun, moon, treasure bell, golden seal, bow, halberd, etc. The divine image has a kind and radiant countenance.
It is said that as long as one sincerely recites the name of Yuanming Daomu Tianzun, they will enjoy health and longevity, and their descendants will be safe and sound. Some major
Taoist temples have a Daomu Hall dedicated to her. The divine birthday of Yuanming Daomu Tianzun is said to be either the 20th day of the sixth lunar month or the 9th day of the ninth lunar month.
Part of the Series
This article is part of our comprehensive guide covering all core Taoist philosophies, concepts, and practices — curated from the classic Encyclopedia of Taoism.
View Full Guide →
✦ Explore All Topics
