Chapter 12: The Canonization of the Gods
Following the great war, Jiang Ziya undertook the sacred task of canonizing the gods. The heavenly court had decreed that all those who died in the conflict, whether on the side of Zhou or Shang, would be given positions in the celestial hierarchy.
The canonization ceremony was held on a sacred mountain, where Jiang Ziya stood before the assembled immortals and mortal representatives. He held the list of names, each representing a soul that had sacrificed itself in the great conflict between righteousness and corruption.
One by one, the names were called, and each soul was assigned a position in the celestial bureaucracy. Some became gods of natural phenomena, others became protectors of specific regions or professions. The canonization ensured that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
Nezha was canonized as the Third Lotus Prince, a position that reflected his heroic deeds and supernatural abilities. His transformation from a troubled youth to a legendary warrior was celebrated throughout the realm. His story would inspire generations to come.
Yang Jian received the title of Erlang Shen, the Divine Lord of Sichuan. His third eye of truth and unmatched martial skills made him one of the most revered deities in the celestial hierarchy. His wisdom and courage were acknowledged by both mortals and immortals.
Even some of the Shang warriors who had fought with honor were canonized. Their loyalty to their cause, though misguided, was recognized as a virtue. The canonization process emphasized that true heroism transcends the boundaries of political allegiance.
The canonization of the gods established the framework for Chinese mythology that would endure for millennia. It created a comprehensive system of deities and celestial officials who would oversee the affairs of the mortal realm. Jiang Ziya's role in this process cemented his place as one of the greatest figures in Chinese history.