Beliefs on “Zigu” as the “Toilet Deity” and Perspectives on Social Inequality คติความเชื่อ “จื่อกู” ในฐานะ “เทพห้องส้วม” กับมุมมองความไม่เท่าเทียมทางสังคม

Abstract

The study of the legend of “Zigu,” who was later worshiped as the “Toilet Deity,” reveals that the construction of beliefs surrounding Chinese spirits and deities remains deeply rooted in a patriarchal system. The status and rights of the principal wife are greater than those of the concubine, reflecting the persistent social inequality that has been passed down through generations.

The “Toilet Deity” is a belief deeply rooted in Chinese culture, evidenced clearly during the North-South dynasties period or around 1,600 years ago. The book of Yiyuan (A Garden of Marvels) of Liu Jingsu, particularly the chapter on “God Zigu,” links the deity to the toilet, leading to Zigu being worshipped as the “Toilet Deity.” However, the depiction of Zigu in Liu Jingshu’s writings is fierce, resembling more of    a “ghost” than a “deity.” This contrasts with later periods where Zigu is portrayed a better image, even specifying Zigu deification.

The heart of the narrative that created Zigu’s pathetic image revolves around the tragic fate of      a concubine oppressed by her the First Wife. Due to oppression and harassment, she commits suicide in the restroom to escape her misery. Considering the social context of that era, first wifes often displayed possessive, jealous, domineering behavior without fearing their husbands. Consequently, most concubines face difficulty and hardship, including laboring in households, like Zigu being assigned restroom-cleaning duties. This narrative serves as a mirror reflecting the harsh social reality of the North-South dynasties and the cruel fate where powerless women, like the concubines, opt for suicide as a means of escape.