The Three Qing and Four Emperors are the highest deities in Taoism and represent the highest principles and moral codes of the universe.
Sanqing refers to the three supreme gods of Yuqing, Shangqing, and Taiqing, which symbolize different levels and aspects of the universe.
Yuqing Yuan Shi Tianzun: Usually considered to be the Yuan Shi Tianzun, representing the creation of the universe, he often resides in the Yuxu Palace.
Shangqing Lingbao Tianzun: refers to Lingbao Tianzun, which symbolizes the management and order of the universe and often resides in Biyou Palace.
Taiqing Daode Tianzun: The most well-known as Taishang Laojun, is Daode Tianzun, that is, Lao Tzu, representing morality and wisdom. He lives in Hakkeigu Shrine.
These three deities are regarded in Taoism as the creators and administrators of the universe and the root of all things.
The Four Emperors are the four protector gods in Taoism, namely the Green Dragon, the White Tiger, the Vermilion Bird, and the Xuanwu. Each of them guards the four directions of the universe and represents the power and attributes of the four directions. The green dragon rules the east and symbolizes spring and growth, the white tiger guards the west and represents autumn and harvest, the suzaku represents the south and symbolizes summer and prosperity, and the xuanwu represents the north and is associated with winter and storage.
Arctic Ziwei the Great: He is in charge of the astronomical stars and has a close connection with the imperial politics of the world.
Antarctic Immortal Emperor: The longevity and health of the presiding man is a symbol of immortality.
Emperor Gou Chen Shanggong: Responsible for assisting the Jade Emperor and managing the affairs of the Three Realms.
Chengtian imitates the Hou Tu Huang Di Zhuang: commonly known as Hou Tu Niang, she is the ruler of the land god, in charge of the growth of the earth and all things.
As an important part of Taoist mythology, the Three Qing Dynasty and the Four Emperors not only show Taoism's understanding of the universe and life, but also reflect the profound heritage of traditional Chinese culture. In modern society, although science and technology are changing with each passing day, the image of the Three Clears and the Four Emperors still occupies a place in people's lives, becoming a bridge connecting the ancient and modern, and connecting people and the universe.