Take a dive into one of martial arts’ lesser known holidays Guan Gong’s Blade Sharpening Day
This holiday is for the legendary Chinese God of War and symbol of loyalty, Lord Guan (關公). Also known as Guan Yu (關羽), he is a historical general from the Three Kingdoms period who was deified for his unwavering loyalty, righteousness, and martial bravery. He is revered by a diversity of groups, business owners and merchants pray to him as a God of Wealth, so as to bring integrity and prosperity. Martial artists and police officers take him as a patron for courage and protection.
According to legend, when it rains on this day, it means the deity is wetting his whetstone to sharpen his blade. Such rain is said to symbolize the washing away of disasters and the blessing of peace.