Huodou Explained

Huodou is a legendary creature originating within the minorities of southern China.[1]

Appearance

It is described as having the appearance of a large black dog that can emit flames from its mouth. Fire would break out wherever the Huodou went, so the ancients saw it as a sign of fire and often an ominous symbol. It is probably a demonized tribal symbol of southern China.[2]

The "Shanhaijing" states: "There are people and beasts in the south who eat fire. Their country is near Hei Kunlun (Black Kunlun). People there can eat coals, and fire-eating beasts are also known as Calamities." The Shanhaijing also mentioned that the body of the Huodou is black.

It is also noted in the Chiya(赤雅) of the Ming Dynasty: "the Huodou looks like a dog, it eats fire and spits fire, it is ominous".

Notes and References

  1. Book: Strassberg . Richard E. . A Chinese Bestiary: Strange Creatures from the Guideways Through Mountains and Seas . 5 March 2018 . University of California Press . 978-0-520-29851-4 . en.
  2. Book: Shizhen . Li . Ben Cao Gang Mu, Volume II: Waters, Fires, Soils, Metals, Jades, Stones, Minerals, Salts . 2 February 2021 . University of California Press . 978-0-520-37989-3 . en.