Overview
The jiangshi, often referred to as a "hopping vampire," is a figure from Chinese folklore and Taoist mythology. Unlike traditional Western zombies, jiangshi are reanimated corpses that feed on the life force of the living rather than flesh. They are characterized by their stiff, upright posture, which causes them to move by hopping rather than walking. This unique mode of locomotion, combined with their pale, corpse-like appearance and outstretched arms, makes them a distinctive and unsettling figure in Chinese supernatural lore.
In traditional tales, jiangshi are typically created through improper burial practices, curses, or as a result of supernatural interference. They are often depicted as having a fear of the sun and are repelled by Taoist talismans, which can be used to ward them off or neutralize their threat. Stories about jiangshi have been popularized in various forms of media, including films and literature, often emphasizing their eerie nature and the need for cunning or ritual to defeat them.
Features
Appearance
Jiangshi are typically depicted as reanimated corpses with a pale, decayed appearance. They often wear traditional garments from the period of their death, which may be tattered or in disrepair.
Movement
Due to their stiff, rigor-mortised limbs, jiangshi move by hopping or jumping rather than walking. This characteristic gives them a distinctive, unsettling presence.
Face and Eyes
Their faces may be frozen in a grotesque or ghoulish expression. The eyes are often described as glowing or lifeless, adding to their eerie appearance.
Hunger for Life Force
Unlike Western zombies, jiangshi do not crave human flesh but instead seek to drain the life force or "qi" of living beings. They might do this through direct physical contact or by absorbing energy.
Aversion to Sunlight
Jiangshi are generally averse to sunlight, which is believed to weaken or destroy them. They prefer to move and hunt during the night.
Fear of Taoist Talismans
Taoist symbols, charms, and rituals are said to repel jiangshi. These include paper talismans with protective spells or symbols, which can be placed on doors or used to combat them.
Behavior and Habits
Jiangshi are often depicted as mindless or driven by instinct, focusing solely on their need to consume life force. They may be driven by the circumstances of their reanimation, such as unresolved grudges or improper burial practices.
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