Caishen

Caishen is most prominently worshipped during the Lunar New Year, particularly on the fifth day of the first lunar month, which is known as the day to welcome the God of Wealth. Families and businesses set off firecrackers and burn incense to invite Caishen's image into their homes and shops to attract prosperity for the coming year. This tradition is widespread across Chinese communities worldwide.

Caishen is not a single historical figure but an amalgamation of several deities and legendary figures from Chinese history. One of the most commonly associated figures is Zhao Gongming, a Daoist deity depicted riding a black tiger and wielding an iron cudgel. Another is Bi Gan, a loyal minister of the Shang Dynasty whose honesty and integrity made him a symbol of fair wealth.

Caishen is typically depicted as a bearded figure dressed in elaborate red or gold ceremonial robes, wearing a winged official's hat. He is often shown holding a gold ingot (yuanbao) or a scroll, symbols of wealth and prosperity. When identified as Zhao Gongming, he is shown riding a black tiger and carrying implements associated with his role as a martial wealth deity.

While the most elaborate worship occurs during the Lunar New Year, many Chinese businesses maintain a Caishen shrine throughout the year and offer incense on the second and sixteenth day of each lunar month. Some shops in Chinatowns and Chinese communities display a Caishen image near the entrance or at a dedicated altar. The practice of year-round worship varies by regional tradition and individual devotion.