8. Leigong: The Chinese Thunder God
Leigong, the deity of thunder, is first brought to us via Chinese mythology. Usually presented as a terrifying monster with bird head, claws, and wings, Leigong is in charge of bringing thunder and lightning to punish evildoers. Usually he goes with his wife, Dianmu, the goddess of lightning. Legend goes that Leigong creates thunder with a drum and mallet, and Dianmu generates lightning flashes with mirrors. Chinese mythology relates of Leigong’s particular dislike of cheats and liars, whom he would destroy with his lightning bolts. Since Leigong was supposed not to strike mulberry trees, this idea led to the prevalent habit of finding cover under them during thunderstorms. Leigong’s narrative captures the Chinese idea of divine justice and the conviction in supernatural forces preserving social moral order.