Goddess Gemu of Mosuo
The Story of Gemu
According to legend, the history of the Lion Mountain, or Mountain of the Goddess Gemu, is closely linked to that of Lake Lugu
Many, many years ago, a girl named Gemu lived among the Mosuo. She was famous for her beauty, and renowned for her ability to embroider. It is said that at the moment she saw a bird, a flower, or a butterfly; at once she could embroider them accurately. Such was her fame that numerous suitors arrived at her door each day requesting her love.
But she was not interested. Her fame grew to the point that it reached the sky, and there even a god fell in love with her. He came down to earth riding on the wind, and took Gemu away with him to the sky.
People on earth, surprised, asked him to liberate her. But the god demanded an offering of 9,000 pairs of white goats and another 9,000 pairs of black goats. We see the symbolism of the numbers here, because nine is the masculine number, and this was the offering demanded by this god, while seven is the feminine number. The people made this enormous offering to the god, only to discover that the god had deceived them and Gemu did not return to the earth in human form.
She now resides in Lion Mountain and her soul became a goddess. In order to remember her, from then on people referred to Lion Mountain as Gemu Mountain, and honor her, especially when they make the ritual circumambulation of the mountain. It is said that sometimes she appears riding on a white horse.Traditionally the Mosuo walked around Lugu Lake on foot or by horse, but nowadays people can be found riding bicycles or even motorcycles.
The History of Gemu and the Mosuo
Gemu, also known as “walking marriage,” is a unique cultural practice observed by the Mosuo people, an ethnic minority group residing in the mountainous regions of southwestern China, primarily around Lake Lugu. Gemu is a system of matrilineal relationships and family structures that sets the Mosuo apart from other societies.
In Mosuo culture, marriage as traditionally understood in many other societies does not exist. Instead, they practice a form of partnership called “axia,” which translates to “friendship” or “companionship.” This system allows for greater flexibility and freedom in personal relationships. Gemu refers specifically to the practice of a woman having multiple axia partners throughout her life, with each relationship based on mutual consent and choice.
At the core of Gemu is the matrilineal kinship system. In Mosuo society, family lineage is traced through the female line, and property is passed down from mothers to daughters. Women hold significant influence and decision-making power within their households and communities. This matrilineal structure is a key aspect of the Mosuo culture and shapes their social dynamics.
In Gemu, relationships are formed through a custom called “Zouhun,” which means “walking marriage.” It refers to the practice of a man visiting a woman’s home during the night and leaving before dawn to return to his own family. The man may have multiple axia partners, and children born from these relationships are raised by the woman and her maternal family. The biological father may or may not play a role in the upbringing of the children.
The concept of Gemu reflects a deep respect for individual autonomy and personal choice. Women have the freedom to choose their partners and maintain control over their own lives and resources. The Mosuo society places great value on the contributions and wisdom of women, recognizing their central role in maintaining social stability and harmony.
Read more about the Mosuo here!
Gemu is not solely based on romantic or sexual relationships but also encompasses emotional support, companionship, and shared responsibilities. The axia partners collaborate in household tasks, economic activities, and the raising of children. The relationships are characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and a sense of community.
The Mosuo people embrace a close connection to nature and have developed a harmonious relationship with their environment. They are known for their sustainable agricultural practices, including terrace farming and fishing. The community is tightly knit, with strong bonds formed within extended families and between neighbors.
It’s important to note that the Mosuo culture has evolved over time, and not all individuals adhere strictly to the traditional practices of Gemu. Modern influences and external factors have brought changes to the community, including increased tourism and outside cultural influences. However, the core values of matrilineal lineage, respect for women, and communal harmony continue to hold significance in Mosuo society.
The practice of Gemu has attracted interest from researchers, anthropologists, and curious travelers who seek to learn more about this unique cultural phenomenon. It serves as a reminder that diverse forms of relationships and family structures exist across the world, challenging the conventional notions of marriage and providing insights into alternative ways of living and organizing societies. The Mosuo people and their practice of Gemu offer valuable lessons about gender roles, kinship systems, and the importance of autonomy and mutual respect in human relationships.