E Gui (China)

E Gui are the tormented ghosts of people who were exceptionally greedy and miserly in life. Despite having the means to help others, they were resentful of charitable acts, sometimes withholding food even from their own family, and envious of others’ fortunes. They also secretly or openly condemn the generosity displayed by others.

According to legend, such individuals are said to become e gui—spirits constantly tormented by insatiable hunger. E gui are depicted as emaciated figures with enormous bellies. They are said to have mouths so tiny that they cannot swallow even a grain of rice to fill their huge bellies.

Although e gui are always in search of food, they are unable to find any satisfying sustenance. Instead, they are forced to consume repulsive substances such as feces, menstrual waste, and rotting food. Their small mouths allow them to ingest only minuscule amounts, leaving them perpetually hungry.