Zhang Guo Lao, one of the Eight Immortals »Legends
Within Chinese mythology we find the figure of Zhang Guo Lao , a deity that was actually part of the known as eight immortals . These were a group of mythology deities. Apparently, the eight would have been born during the Tang or Song dynasties and were specialists in the practice of alchemy. They thus got methods to become immortal.
These immortals are also known to the Eight Geniuses, since the truth is that they had methods and qualities that could be identified with her. They were worshiped by Taosimus, but they were also very established in Chinese popular culture.
He is said to represent the elders because of their great wisdom and venerable character. He is therefore known as the Master of Profound Knowledge , represented as well as an old man riding on a white donkey.
His donkey has somewhat strange properties; and it can be folded like paper. Thus, when Zhang Guo Lao does not need it, he simply orders him to fold and keep it until he needs it again. In addition, the legends about this god assured that he was able to ride his donkey in a somewhat peculiar way, from behind.
Among the symbols associated with it are a bamboo drum, which symbolizes longevity, and inside it some iron sticks that he uses as castanets.
The stories of this god are distributed throughout the different dynasties, so, we find an episode in which Empress Wu , during the Tang dynasty, asked her to leave her refuge in the mountains to go to her palace and thus be her minister . However, Zhang Guo decided to fake his death. His body began to rot and fill with worms. Only then did the empress convince herself that he had died. However, shortly after this, this wise man was seen again wandering the mountains.
Emperor Tang Xuanzong also tried to give him a position as minister, however, Zhuang Guo Lao again faked his death again. He became ill, returned to the mountain and was buried. After opening his grave they found no rest.