Yelรผ Longxu, known as Emperor Shengzong, was the sixth emperor of the Khitan Liao Dynasty, reigning from 982 to 1031 AD. Ascending the throne at just twelve years old, the early part of his reign was guided by his highly capable mother, Empress Dowager Xiao, who served as regent and commanded the military.
Under his and his mother's joint leadership, the Liao Empire successfully resisted multiple Song invasions and launched a counter-offensive in 1004 that culminated in the Treaty of Chanyuan in 1005. Following his mother's death in 1009, Shengzong ruled directly, implementing major administrative reforms, reducing taxes, and fostering a golden age of culture, education, and religion.
Shengzong was a devout patron of Buddhism, and his reign is surrounded by many sacred legends. He ordered the construction of magnificent temples and the carving of the Liao Khitan Tripitaka (Buddhist scriptures). A famous legend is associated with the Dule Temple (Temple of Solitary Joy) that he restored: it is said that the colossal clay statue of Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy) inside the temple would manifest at night, radiating a warm light to protect the empire from disasters. Another nomadic myth tells of Shengzong encountering a mystical white stag during a hunt in the sacred mountains; instead of shooting it, he released the creature, receiving a divine blessing of longevity and peace for his people.