LU HSING

Pinyin Lu Xing, in Chinese mythology, one of three stellar gods known collectively as Fu-Shou-Lu. He was honoured as a deity who could make people happy through increased salaries or promotions that brought prosperity (lu). In life, Lu Hsing was a scholar who bore the name Shih Fen. In the 2nd century BC he was a favourite of Emperor Ching and was made a high official at the royal court. His family prospered through imperial generosity. Perhaps because the Chinese have many gods of wealth and happiness, Lu Hsing is not nearly so widely honoured as is Shou Hsing, the god of longevity.