Hung Shing

Hung Shing Da Wang is identified with Zhu Rong, the ancient deity of the South China Sea. Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty conferred upon him the title 'Guangli Wang' (King of Vast Benefits); later, during the Southern Han dynasty, he was further honoured with the title 'Zhaoming Wang' (Illuminating and Radiant King). In popular belief, he is also identified with Hong Xi, a Tang-dynasty prefect of Guangli who possessed profound knowledge of astronomy and geography and extended benevolent patronage to merchants and travellers; after his death, he was deified. The Huangpu Nanhai God Temple in Guangzhou was first constructed during the Sui Dynasty and served for centuries as the imperial site for state sacrifices to the sea god; its famed archway inscribed 'The Sea Remains Calm' has become iconic, and the temple stands as a key historical landmark along the Maritime Silk Road. Temples dedicated to Hung Shing proliferated along China’s southern coast, especially in Hong Kong and Macau. Before setting sail, fishermen and merchants invariably perform rituals to honour Hung Shing, praying for calm seas, favourable winds, and safe, bountiful voyages; his birthday festival on the 13th day of the 2nd lunar month is celebrated with great solemnity and grandeur.