Wu_Xian_(astronomer)

Wuxian (Shang dynasty)

Wuxian (Shang dynasty)

Chinese shaman and astronomer

Wuxian (Chinese: 巫咸) was a Chinese shaman, or Wu (Chinese: 巫; pinyin: wū; Wade–Giles: wu; lit. 'shaman') who practiced divination, prayer, sacrifice, rainmaking, and healing in Chinese traditions dating back over 3,000 years. Wuxian lived in the Shang dynasty (c. 1600–1046 BC) of China, and served under king Tai Wu. He is considered one of the main ancient Chinese astronomers alongside more historical figures such as Gan De and Shi Shen, the latter two of whom lived during the Warring States (403–221 BC).[1] He has also been represented as one of the "Three Astronomical Traditions" on the Dunhuang map which was made during the Tang dynasty (618–907).[2]

See also

References

  1. [1]
    Peng, Yoke Ho (2000). Li, Qi and Shu: An Introduction to Science and Civilization in China. Courier Dover Publications. ISBN 0-486-41445-0
  2. [2]
    Whitfield, Susan. [2004] (2004). The Silk Road: Trade, Travel, War and Faith. British Library Staff. Serindia Publications. ISBN 1-932476-12-1.


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