Da Shi Ye (大士爷) - The Supreme Commander
Da Shi Ye is the most prominent figure of the Yulan Festival. While his appearance is fearsome—with a fiery face, long fangs, and a towering crown—he is not a demon. He is a compassionate manifestation of the Bodhisattva of Mercy, Guan Yin. His formidable presence serves one crucial purpose: to maintain absolute order and ensure the fair and peaceful distribution of offerings to the millions of wandering spirits (Hao Xiong Di) released during the seventh month. The small statue of Guan Yin on his crown is a reminder of his benevolent true nature.
Tua Di Ya Pek (大二爷伯) - The Divine Enforcers
Known colloquially in Malaysia as Tua Di Ya Pek, these are the famous divine constables of the underworld. The White Guard, Xie Bi An (谢必安), rewards the virtuous, while the Black Guard, Fan Wu Jiu (范无疚), punishes the wicked. During the Yulan Festival, they act as deputies to Da Shi Ye, helping to patrol the mortal realm, maintain order among the spirits, and ensure the festival proceedings are respected by all.
Niutou Mamian (牛头马面) - The Underworld Guards
These two are the iconic guardians of the gates of Hell and the bailiffs who escort souls to judgment. They serve under the Ten Yama Kings and are known for their strict, non-negotiable execution of their duties. During the Yulan festival, their presence signifies the formal opening of the underworld and the organised procession of spirits into the human realm under divine supervision.
Wǔ Sè Mǎ (五色马) & Attendants - The Divine Entourage
High-ranking deities require an entourage. The **Five-Colored Horse (五色马, Wǔ Sè Mǎ)** serves as the divine steed for Da Shi Ye, allowing him to travel swiftly between the spiritual and mortal realms. The five colours represent the five elements and cosmic directions. He is often accompanied by the **Golden Youth (金童, Jīntóng)** and **Jade Maiden (玉女, Yùnǚ)**, celestial attendants who assist with carrying out his duties.
Tudigong (土地公) - The Lord of the Land
Before any major event can take place, it is a matter of paramount respect to inform the “landlord.” Tudigong is the deity of the specific plot of land where the festival is held. Prayers and offerings are made to him first to request his permission and blessing, ensuring the event proceeds smoothly and safely on his domain.
Hao Xiong Di (好兄弟) - The Good Brothers
This is arguably the most important group. “Hao Xiong Di” is a respectful and compassionate term for the countless wandering souls who are without family to care for them. The Yulan Festival is an act of universal salvation, a grand feast to feed, clothe, and comfort these “Good Brothers,” easing their suffering and preventing them from causing mischief. They are not deities, but they are the honoured guests.
The Language of Offerings
What We Pray With
Joss Paper Treasuries (金银库)
Gold & Silver Treasury (金库/银库, Jīn Kù/Yín Kù): These are not just “hell money.” They are sealed boxes of paper offerings representing a treasury filled with wealth. Burning them is akin to making a direct deposit into the spiritual bank account of ancestors or deities, providing them with substantial resources.
Sustenance & Grains (五谷)
The Five Grains (五谷, Wǔ Gǔ): This offering typically includes rice, wheat, beans, and other grains. It symbolizes the fundamentals of life and sustenance. Offering Wǔ Gǔ is a prayer for an abundant harvest, prosperity, and ensuring that the spirits never suffer from hunger.
Other Essential Offerings
Incense (香): The bridge of communication. The smoke carries our prayers and respects to the spiritual realm.
Candles (蜡烛): A guiding light. They illuminate the path for the deities and spirits, and symbolize wisdom and brightness.
Rebirth Money (往生钱): Yellow paper with red inscriptions, specifically intended to help suffering souls accumulate merit to achieve a better reincarnation.
