On the distinction between "monster" and "guardian deity"

[Chinese Monster Encyclopedia]

The body of "monster" and "guardian god" may be changed by various objects, and their manifestations may overlap or even be the same. One criterion for distinguishing between them is: the demon can move freely, or move in a larger range, free of movement, subjectivity is strong; "Patron saint" can only attach to a certain object or person, subjective mobility is relatively weak, All they do is to protect the objects they depend on or guard;