Heaven Official's Blessing: Vol. 1

Butterflies are a complex and multifaceted symbol in Heaven Official’s Blessing, representing transformation, Redemption and Forgiveness, and The Illusion of Truth. As Hua Cheng’s emblem, they are an extension of his power and presence, both beautiful and ominous. The heavenly officials refer to them as “wraith butterflies,” and they leave “an everlasting impression on [Mu Qing and Feng Xin]” (170). However, while Mu Qing and Feng Xin view them as a sign of danger, Xie Lian finds them cute. This contrast underscores how perception is shaped by experience and bias rather than objective reality.

The butterflies embody the illusion of truth. Xie Lian has no reason to fear them, as he has never been Hua Cheng’s enemy. To him, they are harmless, almost whimsical companions. However, for Feng Xin and Mu Qing, who refused to accept Hua Cheng’s challenge, the butterflies serve as a lingering reminder of their humiliation. During the Zhongyuan Festivals, they attack these gods and their subordinates, reinforcing their fear of both Hua Cheng and his power. This duality reflects the novel’s broader theme of how truth is subjective—what appears threatening to one person may be a source of comfort to another.