Di Tu Mo (Root Earthen Raccoon Dog)

Di Lodge is the third of the Seven Lodges constituting the Azure Dragon of the East and is associated with the Earth element; its embodiment is the raccoon dog—a creature resembling a civet or leopard cat. In ancient cosmology, Di represented the forelimbs and chest of the Azure Dragon and was regarded as the celestial root or foundation of Heaven. In Daoist tradition, Di Tu Mo is venerated as the Stellar Lord of the Earthly Lodge, presiding over matters of epidemic disease and compulsory labour service; folk practice holds that worship of Di Lodge brings robust health to family members and wards off illness. Astrological lore states that when the Di Lodge shines brightly, women of high station flourish and peace prevails throughout the realm. As one of the Twenty-Eight Mansion Deities who rotate in celestial guardianship, Di Tu Mo joins his fellow lodge lords in safeguarding the Azure Dragon’s celestial domain.