Seven Stars Spirits

Seven Stars Spirits

ALSO KNOWN AS:

Chilsong

ORIGIN:

Korea

In Korean cosmology, the constellation known in the West as the Big Dipper or the Great Bear is instead understood as seven brothers, known as the Seven Stars Spirits. The Seven Stars are petitioned for:

• Fertility

• Easy childbirth

• Healthy babies and children

• The birth of sons

• Prosperity

• Abundance

• Wealth

• Longevity and good health

• Virility

The Seven Stars Spirits are always worshipped together. Although there are seven of them, corresponding to the seven stars, they may be understood as embodying the force of one collective spirit. Unlike, say, Japan’s Seven Spirits of Good Luck, who may each also be venerated independently, the Seven Stars Spirits are not depicted or worshipped alone or in separate smaller groups.

The Seven Stars are possessing spirits. Using a shaman’s body as a vehicle, the Seven Stars are able to offer prophesies.

ICONOGRAPHY:

The Seven Stars are depicted as seven bearded men usually dressed in traditional Chinese clothing. Icons of the Seven Stars are used in rituals to summon rain or to restore Earth’s fertility.

SEE ALSO:

• Shichi Fukujin;
• 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.