The story of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess, and her companion, the Jade Rabbit, is one of the most enduring myths in Chinese culture. This celestial duo has captured the imagination of generations, symbolizing the mysteries and beauty of the moon. But how did the rabbit become Chang’e’s eternal companion in the lunar palace? The answer lies in a rich tapestry of mythology, astronomy, and cultural symbolism that spans centuries.

The Moon in Ancient Imagination

Since ancient times, the moon has been a source of fascination and reverence for the Chinese people. As the only natural light in the night sky, it inspired countless myths and legends. Early Chinese texts, such as The Classic of Mountains and Seas (山海经), describe the moon as a realm of mystery and wonder, inhabited by various mythical creatures. Among these, the rabbit emerged as a central figure, but its journey to the moon was not straightforward.

The Debate Over the Moon’s Inhabitants

The earliest references to the moon’s inhabitants can be traced back to the poet Qu Yuan’s Heavenly Questions (天问), written during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE). In this poem, Qu Yuan ponders the nature of the moon and asks:

“What virtue does the moon possess, that it dies and is reborn? What benefit does it gain, that it harbors a toad in its belly?”

The phrase “顾菟” (gutu) in this passage has been the subject of much debate. Some scholars, like the Eastern Han commentator Wang Yi, interpreted it as “rabbit,” leading to the popular belief in a moon rabbit. Others, like the modern scholar Tang Bingzheng, argue that gutu refers to a tiger, based on linguistic and cultural evidence. Meanwhile, the poet Guo Moruo and scholar Wen Yiduo suggested that gutu might mean “toad,” pointing to ancient蟾蜍 (toad) worship in Chinese culture.

The discovery of the Mawangdui Han tomb paintings in 1973 added another layer to this debate. These 2,000-year-old artworks depict a toad and a rabbit on the moon, suggesting that both creatures were associated with lunar mythology during the Han Dynasty.

The Rabbit’s Rise to Lunar Fame

Despite the competing interpretations, the rabbit eventually became the dominant symbol of the moon. This association was reinforced by astronomical observations. Ancient Chinese astronomers noted that the dark spots on the moon’s surface resembled a rabbit. The Eastern Han scholar Zhang Heng, in his work Ling Xian (灵宪), described the moon as a “yin essence” that took the form of a rabbit. This idea was further popularized in later texts, such as the Tang Dynasty poet Li Zhouhan’s description of the moon as the “Mystic Rabbit.”

The Rabbit and the Moon Goddess

The rabbit’s connection to Chang’e, the Moon Goddess, evolved over time. Initially, the rabbit was associated with the Queen Mother of the West (西王母), a powerful deity who controlled the elixir of immortality. In Han Dynasty art, rabbits are often depicted as her attendants, pounding herbs to create the magical potion.

The story of Chang’e’s ascent to the moon became intertwined with the rabbit’s role as a celestial pharmacist. According to one version of the myth, Chang’e stole the elixir of immortality from her husband, the archer Hou Yi, and fled to the moon. There, she was transformed into a toad, while the rabbit continued to prepare the elixir. Over time, the toad’s role diminished, and the rabbit became Chang’e’s primary companion, symbolizing purity, longevity, and the moon’s eternal beauty.

Why a Rabbit?

The rabbit’s association with the moon can be attributed to several factors. First, its nocturnal habits made it a natural symbol for the moon, which governs the night. Ancient Chinese texts describe rabbits as “明视” (mingshi), or “clear-sighted,” due to their ability to see well in low light. This trait linked them to the moon’s illuminating presence.

Second, the rabbit’s reproductive habits contributed to its symbolic significance. Rabbits are known for their rapid breeding, and their gestation period of about 29 days mirrors the lunar cycle. This connection led to the belief that rabbits could “conceive by gazing at the moon,” a notion that underscored their association with fertility and renewal.

Finally, the appearance of white rabbits, which were rare in ancient China, was seen as an auspicious omen. White rabbits were believed to live for hundreds of years, further cementing their status as symbols of longevity and immortality.

The Rabbit in Culture and Literature

The moon rabbit has left an indelible mark on Chinese culture and literature. Poets like Li Bai and Du Fu celebrated the rabbit in their verses, while folk traditions honored it as a bringer of good fortune and protector of children. The “Rabbit God” (兔儿爷), a popular folk deity, was worshipped for his ability to ensure safe childbirth and family prosperity.

In art, the rabbit is often depicted alongside Chang’e, pounding the elixir of immortality in the Moon Palace. This imagery has become a staple of Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, where mooncakes and lanterns adorned with rabbit motifs are enjoyed by families across China.

A Timeless Symbol

The myth of the moon rabbit reflects humanity’s enduring fascination with the moon and its mysteries. From its origins in ancient astronomy to its role in folklore and literature, the rabbit has become a powerful symbol of fertility, longevity, and the eternal beauty of the night sky. As Chang’e’s loyal companion, it continues to inspire wonder and imagination, reminding us of the rich cultural heritage that connects us to the heavens above.