The Ru Yi originally used by high-ranking officials of the Imperial China, grew to become a symbol of power and authority. It is also carried by one of the Three Stars, Luk (from Fu Luk Sau). Luk represents abundance and wealth. This delicate scepter symbolizes wealth and protection from evil or misfortune.

Bats are a common feature of the Ru Yi – it is typically seen perched atop the scepter. The bat, seen sitting atop the Ru Yi, is considered to be a very lucky object. This is because its' Chinese name is Pien Fu, which is similar to the name of one of the Three Stars (Fu from Fu Luk Sau). Fu represents health and longevity. Fu in other words means 'riches' or 'prosperity'.

Ru yi literally means "as you wish" in Chinese. A typical ru yi is composed of two parts: a head in the shape of cloud, heart, or a species of fungus (Ling zhi, meaning "magic mushroom"), and an elongated handle. Ru yi can be made of a variety of valuable materials, such as precious metal, jade, hardwood, semi-precious gems, ivory, coral, and so on.

Ancient Chinese craftsmen exquisitely decorated ru yi by relief, openwork, inlaid gems, among other things. Ruyi itself, along with decorating motifs upon it, conveys good wishes, such as longevity, blessing, good fortune, and prosperity.

The Origin of the Ru Yi

No matter how valuable the material is and how meticulous the appearance is, the ru yi nevertheless has a humble origin: it was born out of a household tool to scratch itches on one's back! With time passing by, an intense appreciation for the ru yi formed, due to its symbolism and aesthetics.

During late Han and early Jin Dynasties, literati, nobles, and royal members often held ru yi during conservations and other social occasions. During the Ming and Qing Dynasty, ru yi finally emerged as a pure symbol of blessing and good fortune.

The ru yi was particularly appreciated during the Qing court. It became a tradition that on occasions of important court celebrations such as enthronement, imperial weddings, birthdays and New Years, the nobles, generals, and government officials presented the most elaborate and valuable ru yi to emperors. Emperors also directly commissioned ru yi at the imperial workshop.

During this period, the ru yi symbolized not only blessings, but also power and wealth.

The Ru Yi and Feng Shui

In Feng Shui, the ru yi is believed to be able to enhance a person's positive money luck. This item is best placed on desks or working spaces to up the Feng Shui of career and wealth.