San Shin literally means “Mountain Spirit.” Approximately 70 percent of Korea is covered by mountains. Technically each peak possesses its own presiding Mountain Spirit: they are many and diverse, yet simultaneously one and unified.
The Mountain Spirit, a pre-Buddhist, shamanic spirit, is among the most beloved and popular Korean deities. Korean Buddhist temples sometimes contain a Shaman Hall, an area designated to honour earlier, ancestral spirits. These halls may be of varying sizes and may honour any number of spirits. If only one is honoured, it is almost inevitably the Mountain Spirit.
San Shin the Mountain Spirit is the essence and epitome of yang (male) energy. He bestows personal fertility in general but is also renowned for specifically providing male children—but you must advise him if this is important to you. He may also be invoked for longevity. His attendants carry the peaches of immortality. San Shin is the master of mysticism and may be petitioned for spiritual guidance and instruction.
ORIGIN:
Korea
ICONOGRAPHY:
The Mountain Spirit is consistently depicted as a kind, smiling, old, white-bearded man, usually accompanied by a tiger. He may cradle a tiger cub in his arms. He may or may not lead an entourage of spirits.
ATTRIBUTES:
• Double-gourd containing the alchemical elixir of immortality
• Feather fan indicating his power to summon winds and other spirits
Creature:
Tiger
Plant:
Pullocho, the Korean name for Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ling Zhi in Chinese. Although technically now considered a fungus, Pullocho, at least according to Korean folklore, is the Herb of Immortality.
SEE ALSO:
- Hsi Wang Mu;
- Ma Gu
- Korean Mythology
SOURCE:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.