Tradition: Chinese Mythology
Alternative Names: 兔兒爺, Tu’er Ye, Rabbit God, Lord Leveret
Category: Rabbit
The Myth
Tu’er Ye is a rabbit deity from Beijing, closely associated with the Moon and the moon rabbit of the goddess Chang’e. He is traditionally represented as a rabbit-like figure and is often depicted riding a tiger, dragon, or horse, although some sculptures show him standing alone. His name means “Lord Leveret,” and he has become a distinctive figure in Beijing’s folk religious traditions.
Tu’er Ye is associated with a female counterpart called Tu’er Nainai, or “Lady Leveret.” However, the two may actually be the same deity. According to some legends, Tu’er Ye changes his appearance depending on the human clothing donated to him by the people he helps, meaning that Tu’er Nainai might simply be another form of Tu’er Ye. His worship began in Beijing in 1906, later disappeared during the twentieth century, and was revived in the late 2000s. He should not be confused with Tu’er Shen, a different deity who may share some connections with the Rabbit God.
Sources
“Tu’er Ye.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tu%27er_Ye