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Yao

by Micha F. Lindemans

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A mythical emperor of China who lived either from 2333 - 2234 BCE or
2356 - 2255 BCE. He is said to have established the calendar and
introduced official posts, the holders of which were responsible for
making proper use of the four seasons of the year. He is one of the
Wu-di.

He made Shun his successor, instead of his own son, and subjected him
to severe tests, extending over a period of three years before
entrusting the rule of the country to him. After the death of Yao,
Shun seated himself on the throne. Ten suns appeared in the sky,
threatening to scorch the earth to a cinder. The heavenly archer Shen
Yi managed to shoot nine out of the sky with his magic bow.

Yao is also known as the Tamer of the Winds. He earned this title when
he restored order to the realm (with the help of Shen Yi) after a
monster had devastated the south of the country by violent storms. He
also helped Kun fight the floods of the Yellow River which were
threatening to reach Heaven.

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Article created on 03 March 1997; last modified on 27 December 1998.
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