When watching TV programs, viewers often see monks reciting scriptures while tapping wooden fish that make a “bang bang bang” sound. This scene often leads people to mistakenly believe that wooden fish is a Buddhist artifact, and few people know that Taoism also uses wooden fish.
However, according to experts’ research, the wooden fish actually originated in Taoism and was later adopted by Buddhism, gradually becoming one of the important Buddhist artifacts. So, why is the wooden fish so popular among people? Why was it designed in the shape of a fish instead of other animal forms?
01 Muyu originated from the Jin Dynasty
Wooden fish is one of the Taoist ritual tools, mainly used for reciting scriptures and striking. Its shape is circular, like a fish, hence it is named wooden fish. The wooden fish was originally used as a ritual vessel in Taoism to gather followers, preach scriptures, and set up fasting rooms, and this tradition has continued in Taoism.
According to the records in the “Chongdao Ji” of various dynasties, the wooden fish originated in the Tang Dynasty and was an important tool for Taoism to gather followers, preach scriptures, and set up fasting rooms. Although the use of wooden fish in Taoist temples dates back to the Tang Dynasty, its origins can be traced back to the Han and Jin dynasties.
In Volume 2 of Liu Jingshu’s “Yiyuan” during the Southern Dynasty, there was a story recorded: during the reign of Emperor Wu of Jin, a stone jumped out of Wu County and people knocked on it, but it did not make any sound. So Zhang Hua said, ‘Take the paulownia wood from Shu, carve it into the shape of a fish, and strike it to make it sound like a fish.’ People followed his instructions and indeed could make a sound, which could be heard for tens of miles.
It can be seen that at least during the Jin Dynasty, people had already created fish shaped wooden products and used them to make sounds by striking them.
02 Why is it made into a fish shape?
Day and night contemplation of Taoism: Taoism believes that fish day and night do not match the eyes, symbolizing that cultivators should contemplate the Tao day and night, and work tirelessly. Therefore, shaping the wooden fish into a fish shape is to remind practitioners to remain vigilant at all times, constantly cultivate, and pursue the true essence of Taoism with a spirit of perseverance and a balance between joy and sorrow.
Deterrence of Demons: In some Taoist temples and rituals, striking wooden fish can have a deterrent effect on demons. Fish, as aquatic animals, have a mysterious and spiritual symbol in Taoist culture, so making wooden fish in the shape of a fish can enhance its deterrent power.
Auspicious meaning: In Chinese culture, fish has always been regarded as a symbol of auspiciousness and abundance. Taoism shapes wooden fish into fish shapes, expressing wishes for the prosperity and good fortune of believers.
03 Application of wooden fish in Taoist rituals
Chanting and Repentance: In Taoist rituals, wooden fish are often used in conjunction with bronze bells to regulate the rhythm and speed of chanting and repentance. Taoists guide believers to chant scriptures, pray, and meditate by striking wooden fish, in order to communicate with the gods and purify their souls.
Summoning the congregation: In addition to being used for chanting scriptures and repentance, wooden fish is also used to gather the congregation. In Taoist activities, Taoists use tapping wooden fish to notify believers to gather, listen to lectures, or participate in other religious activities.
