Abstract: There are many different legends of Three Gods (collectively known as Baiditian God),the most influential gods in Xiangxi areas.Collating these legends,we may find that with the local social changes,the core of the legends has turned from the early deterrent to loyalty and obedience,and to “mother of the Three Gods” in the late Qing Dynasty (1636—1912).Meanwhile，the functions of the gods have also changed correspondingly,from the early divine judgment to the middle education and the late blessing.In the process of the change of faith,different groups have participated in the construction of gods.As an important folk faith,Three Gods is typical of a relationship between man and god.

Key words: Baiditian God (collective god for Three Gods), legend, folk faith, god, motif, Xiangxi