司命 (Si Ming)

司命 (Si Ming) refers to the Chinese deity responsible for overseeing human fate and life span, often depicted as a celestial judge or divine official in Taoist tradition. As a divine administrator of destiny, Si Ming manages and records individuals' life trajectories, determining their longevity and important life events. The concept emphasizes the belief that each person’s lifespan and ultimate fate are under divine control, influenced by cosmic forces. This figure embodies the idea that life and death are part of a larger divine order, and seeking favor from Si Ming can influence one’s destiny or prolong life.