Legend has it that the white snake Bai Suzhen, in a desperate attempt to save her beloved Xu Xian from the brink of death, ventured alone to Kunlun Mountain to steal the mystical Lingzhi herb, a plant of immortality. As she descended the mountain, she was intercepted by White Crane Boy, who blocked her path. At that moment, Old Man of the South Pole arrived and questioned her about the theft of the sacred herb. Bai Suzhen explained her plight, pleading for the elder's compassion and assistance. Moved by her devotion and sorrow, the Old Man of the South Pole gifted her the Lingzhi herb, which ultimately revived Xu Xian. This poignant tale has been passed down through generations, and among the people, it is widely believed that the gift of longevity and immortality is, in fact, a blessing bestowed by White Crane Boy. As a result, in Taiwanese folk belief, White Crane Boy is revered as a deity who grants longevity and extended life, embodying the hope for health and eternal youth.[3]
According to the Investiture of the Gods, Xianhe Tongzi is the disciple of the Chan Sect immortal Old Man of the South Pole (Nanji Xianweng). He practiced Taoist cultivation on the mythical Kunlun Mountain and serves as an attendant and third-generation to the supreme deity Yuanshi Tianzun. Despite often appearing as a young boy, his true form is that of a white crane. Though his seniority within the Chan sect is relatively low, White Crane Boy holds a uniquely revered and mysterious status. Even high-ranking immortals treat him with the same respect they would accord Yuanshi Tianzun himself. He acts as a messenger between Yuanshi Tianzun and the Twelve Golden Immortals, tasked with delivering critical secrets and orders. He also aids King Wu of Zhou in his campaign to overthrow the tyrannical Di Xin. During the Battle of Red Sand Formation, White Crane Boy strikes Zhang Tianjun down with a jade ruyi scepter and beheads him with a sword. Later, when Jiang Ziya seizes the strategic Sishui Pass, White Crane Boy is ordered by Yuanshi Tianzun to summon the Twelve Golden Immortals to confront the deadly Slaughter Immortal Formation.[2]
.jpg)