Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree
Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree
Introduction
"Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree" is a well-known legend in Chinese folklore that is often associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. The legend speaks of a man named Wu Gang who is punished to chop down a self-healing osmanthus tree on the Moon. This tale has inspired the chengyu "Wu Gang chopping the osmanthus tree" which is used to describe any endless toil.
Various Versions of Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree
First version
Wu witnessed a liaison between his wife and Yandi's grandson, after the two had already carried on an affair so long it begat three sons. In a rage, Wu murdered his wife's lover but Yandi ordered Wu banished to the Moon, where he would cut down a tree. After each blow, the tree healed itself and Wu was therefore forced to cut at it forever.
Second version
In this version, Wu Gang began the attempt to become a Taoist immortal but gave up lazily midway through the process. The Jade Emperor was furious and decided to punish him. The Emperor created an osmanthus tree on the Moon, and Wu Gang was tasked with chopping it down in order to become an immortal. Wu Gang tried, but again the tree healed itself and the task was impossible. The shadows on the Moon are said to be created by the growing cherry bay.
Third version
In yet another version, Wu found a teacher in the mountains in his quest for immortality. When his teacher taught him to heal, he gave up after three days. When he was taught to play Chinese chess, he gave up after two days. When he was taught the method of eternal life, he gave up after a day. His teacher then sent him to the Moon to chop down the tree.
Cultural Significance
The legend of "Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree" is a poignant and enduring story in Chinese folklore that resonates with themes of perseverance, redemption, and the passage of time. This tale, often linked to the Mid-Autumn Festival, has captured the imagination of generations and serves as a cultural touchstone in Chinese storytelling.
Photo Gallery（1 picture）CategoriesChinese PhilosophyTagMythologyChinese Folk LiteratureCatalogue1. Introduction2. Various Versions of Wu Gang Chopping the Osmanthus Tree3. Cultural Significance-
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