The imagery of the three-legged toad is common in Chinese decorative art. It’s most often found as a small figurine made of metal or a semi-precious stone-like jade. In ancient Chinese motifs, the toad and frog are often used interchangeably. Sometimes, the toad will have different representations on its back or crown of its head, like the yin and yang symbol. In most cases the three-legged toad is found with a coin in its mouth, sitting on top of a bed of coins or gold ingots. It always has two front legs, and one back leg or tail (like a tadpole tail), hence the name three-legged toad.
Origins of the Three-Legged Toad
In Chinese folklore, the legendary three-legged toad is thought to have the ability to produce gold and silver coins from its mouth. This toad lived on the moon with Liu Hai, the God of Wealth. There are various other tales that are told about the three-legged toad. There is one story where the wife of one of the eight immortals was transformed into a toad as a result of stealing the elixir of immortality from her spouse. Another fable explains that lunar eclipses are a result of the three-legged toad swallowing the moon. Besides wealth and money-making, the three-legged toad is also associated with long life and is sometimes depicted with one of the Eight Immortals of Taoism, representing longevity as well as wisdom. You may also see the three-legged toad pictured with the Chinese God of Wealth.
Placements in Feng Shui
In general, the three-legged toad is placed on a small pedestal or table, so it is not sitting directly on the floor. It’s thought to be better placed on a low elevated surface rather than a high one, so as to accumulate more wealth energy. The Money Frog can be placed in your home, office, and place of work. You may even have more than one three-legged toad in your space. If you’re going to do more than one, try three, five, or nine toads as they are luckier feng shui numbers. When working with any auspicious symbol, it is important to be mindful of how you care for and use the object. For instance, you should place the three-legged toad with a humble heart and treat it with care. You can also meditate with it, imbue it with your intention, and then place it thoughtfully. Be sure to check in on it to make sure it’s still in its place, and don’t let it accumulate dust. Here are some suggestions for placements of a feng shui money frog, according to feng shui.
Entryway
You can place the three-legged toad diagonal to the entry of your home or business to invite in wealth and prosperity. It’s generally recommended to have the money frog facing inward from the front door so that the money energy comes in, not out.
Wealth Bagua Area (Xun)
The wealth area of your home is connected to abundance and prosperity. You can find this area by standing in the front door of your home, looking in. Southeast corner of your house is the wealth position of the feng shui bagua map. You can strategically place a three-legged toad here to invite in good luck in making money.
Desk
Your desk symbolizes your career and work. Placing a three-legged toad on your desk will activate your career to attract more prosperity and income.
Meditation Area or Altar
You can also locate a three-legged toad on your meditation altar to invite in more abundance and overall prosperity in your spiritual life. Catching sight of the Money Frog serves a great spiritual reminder.
Wallet
The imagery of a three-legged toad in your wallet with your money can activate your purse to attract more wealth. This placement is extra auspicious because you carry the wallet with you most of the time.
Garden
The three-legged toad can be included in your garden, pond, or outdoor green space as part of your decorations to bring in wealth from the outside world.
