Symbolism

Dragon

When a person thinks of traditional Chinese culture, many images instantly come to mind and none more so than that of the mythical and awe inspiring creature, the Dragon. In terms of historical Chinese culture, the dragon is usually depicted as a large, snake-like, fierce creature with numerous claws. It has long been a well known symbol of unbridled respect and power in Chinese folklore and art. For Chinese people around the world, the dragon symbolises power and prestige. The dragon is also seen as the embodiment of the concept of "Yang" and is associated in terms of weather as the bringer of rain and water in general.

In ancient Chinese history, the dragon was seen as a symbol of nobility and overall imperial authority. The symbol of the dragon was always associated with those in power, in fact, throughout past Chinese dynasties, the emperors often sat on the 'Dragon throne' which asserted their position in society. In instances of Chinese folklore and fable, there were supposed to be four poweful dragons kings, each whom ruled over four separate seas: the East Sea (related to the East China Sea), the South Sea (related to the South China Sea), the West Sea (the Indian Ocean and beyond), and the North Sea (possibly Lake Baikal). As a result, Chinese dragons are strongly associated with the concept of water and are believed to be the rulers of natural areas such as waterfalls, lakes and rivers; physical manifestations of 'Dragons' in nature, are often perceived as twisters, tornados and typhoons.

In the past, superstitious Chinese villagers who made a living off the sea or who lived near to the river shore built temples to both appease and worship their local 'dragons' whom 'lived' near them. In times of crisis such as floods, disasters or typhoons; sacrifices and ancient rituals were carried out in order to appease the powerful and influential dragon.

The dragon, despite its fierce reputation, is also seen as an extremely luck symbol by many people. In the past, the dragon was often closely seen as being connected with the number nine which is seen as a lucky number for all whom associate with it. As a result, there are nine types of dragon, each with an individual and unique characteristic that defines them.

• Tailing (天龍), The Celestial Dragon
• Shenlong (神龍), the Spiritual Dragon
• Fucanglong (伏藏龍), the Dragon of Hidden Treasures
• Dilong (地龍), the Underground Dragon
• Yinglong (應龍), the Winged Dragon
• Jiaolong (虯龍), the Horned Dragon
• Panlong (蟠龍), the Coiling Dragon: inhabits the waters
• Huanglong (黃龍), Yellow Dragon, which emerged from the River Luo to show Fuxi the elements of writing and literature
• Dragon King (龍王)

Such is the perceived influence of dragons and the number nine that locations are named after them. This includes places like Kowloon, Hong Kong with "Kowloon" meaning "Nine Dragons". The dragon has manifested itself in Chinese society in many forms such as "Dragon Dancing" during festivals like Chinese New Year as well as "Dragon Boat" racing which is becoming a more globally recognized sport.