Pixiu or Pi Yao, originally known as Bixie is a Chinese mythical hybrid creature considered to be a very powerful protector to practitioners of Feng Shui. It resembles a winged lion. Pixiu is an earth and sea variation, particularly an influential and auspicious creature for wealth. It is said to have a voracious appetite towards only gold and silver. Therefore traditionally to the Chinese, Pixiu has always been regarded as an auspicious creature that possessed mystical power capable of drawing Cai Qi (wealth) from all directions. Thus it is helpful for those who are going through a bad year according to Chinese zodiac.
Pixiu craves the smell of gold and silver and it likes to bring his master money in his mouth. Pixiu are often used to attract wealth in feng shui.
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The myth of Pixiu tells that the creature violated a law of heaven, so the Jade Emperor punished it by restricting the Pixiu's diet to gold. Thus, pixiu can only absorb gold, but cannot expel it. This is the origin of Pixiu's status as a symbol of the acquisition and preservation of wealth.
Pixiu is also a fierce creature. The large fangs visible in the creature's mouth are used to attack demons and evil spirits, draining their essence and converting it to wealth. Pixiu also guards against disease caused by these same evil spirits.
In tribute to Pixiu's ferocity and prowess in battle, the Pixiu was synonymous with the army in ancient China.