Joss

A Joss is an English term used to refer to a Chinese deity or idol. It generally describes a Chinese religious statue, object (such as joss paper), or idol in many Chinese folk religions. Etymology The English designation "joss" first appeared in the 18th century as a reference to a Chinese idol. The term is usually explained as a borrowing from Portuguese deus or deos, meaning "god". The main objection to this connection with Portuguese deus/deos is that it does not address the linguistic routes that would have allegedly led to the appearance of "joss", with its Chinese religious connotation. Most likely, the English form does describe an actual Chinese divinity, viz. the Dizhushen "landlord deity" ( 地主神), being the tutelary deity of the land (and heaven) and its inhabitants. Known under various epithets and names, this paternal god, who confers luck and wealth to his loyal worshippers, occupies a central position in the folk beliefs of many (overseas) Chinese communities. A similar form is also attested in Dutch as "joos" or "josie", which is a taboo form for the devil (often "corrected" to the less offensive sounding, personal name Joost). This was already noticed by Samuel Hull Wilcocke who translated the travelogues of the Dutch captain and explorer John Splinter Stavorinus. Uses Josses serve multiple functions in traditional Chinese religious customs, varying by the specific tradition. Although the word directly translates to "god", the term "joss" is used to describe a physical statue that is believed to be the dwelling place of a specific deity. Josses are often decorated with golden plaques, which are given by the worshippers as a sign of reverence and respect.