ancient star; deity of the year; local tyrant
Meanings
3 senses · 7 examplesnoun
ancient hypothetical star corresponding to Jupiter; used in traditional calendar systems
technicalIn ancient Chinese astronomy, this concept was used to mark a 12-year cycle, with the star completing one orbit in approximately 11.86 years.
Ancient Chinese used Tai Sui to mark years, with twelve years forming one cycle.
Tai Sui moves in correspondence with Jupiter, so it is also called Taiyin.
noun
deity of the year; god believed to reside on earth corresponding to Jupiter's position
Traditional superstition holds that this deity moves in correspondence with Jupiter, and construction or earth-moving must avoid its current direction to prevent misfortune.
Folk belief holds that groundbreaking construction must avoid the direction where Tai Sui currently resides.
As the saying goes: Do not move earth on Tai Sui's head—meaning do not offend those in power.
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Those who offend Tai Sui this year should go to the temple to worship Tai Sui.
noun
(derogatory) local tyrant; despot; bully
derogatoryUsed in old society as a hateful term for local bullies and tyrants, often in the phrase 镇山太岁 (mountain-guarding tyrant).
He is the local tyrant of the area, whom no one dares to provoke.
Local tyrants and evil gentry in old society were called Tai Sui.