财神
cáishén
God of wealth · trad. 財神
财神 (cáishén) is the God of Wealth, a deity welcomed by shops and families, especially during the Chinese New Year, in hopes of a prosperous year.
What does 财神 (cáishén) mean?
财神 (cáishén) means “God of wealth” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “wealth god.”
When to use it
Neutral. 财神 is a cultural and religious figure. The act of welcoming the God of Wealth, 接财神 (jiē cáishén), is a common New Year custom.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "tsai-shen." Both syllables are rising (second) tones.
Other ways to say it
- 财神爷cáishényéGod of Wealth (more affectionate/respectful)
- 接财神jiē cáishénwelcome the God of Wealth (a New Year custom)
- 恭喜发财gōngxǐ fācáiwishing you prosperity (common New Year greeting)
Examples
过年的时候，家家户户都希望财神到我家。
guònián de shíhou, jiājiā hùhù dōu xīwàng cáishén dào wǒ jiā.
During New Year, every family hopes the God of Wealth comes to their home.
很多商店会在新年期间摆放财神像，祈求生意兴隆。
hěnduō shāngdiàn huì zài xīnnián qījiān bǎifàng cáishén xiàng, qíqiú shēngyì xīnglóng.
Many shops display statues of the God of Wealth during the New Year, praying for prosperous business.
大年初五，人们有接财神的习俗。
dànián chūwǔ, rénmen yǒu jiē cáishén de xísú.
On the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, people have the custom of welcoming the God of Wealth.
Pro tip: During Chinese New Year, especially on the fifth day, people 'welcome' 财神 (接财神) to bring good fortune and prosperity for the coming year.
Related phrases
春联 · Spring couplets福 · Blessing (the fu character)拜年 · Pay a new year visit
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