Animals in Chinese culture are shrouded in mystery. Their symbolism and influence on Chinese people and the rest of the world has been felt by multiple generations over the course of thousands of years. The history of animal symbolism in Chinese culture can be fascinating to learn about in the modern era.
There are countless stories and legends of animals interacting with humans as a guide in the spirit world. Creatures like the dragon, tiger, tortoise, and the phoenix, have maintained their symbolism for centuries without resetting their meaning. Chinese culture has captured the essence of these animals through their stories and mythology to raise awareness of universal values that apply to men, women, and children, around the world.
Tales of mythical creatures coming into contact with ordinary people are prevalent in Chinese culture. Murals, stone carvings, statues, and music, inspired by animals have transformed the imagination of people to bring about a positive change in their perspectives. The appearances of mythical beings are considered sacred across cultures. Animal symbols can be found etched on architecture, clothing, and objects that are held as treasures by people.
Here are a few of the most revered animals mentioned in Chinese culture and the history behind their symbolism.
Tiger
The tiger is one of the strongest creatures in the jungle. In Chinese culture, the tiger is an animal that is a part of the ancient zodiac system. Depictions of a tiger in art remind people to be connected to the earth with their feet firmly on the ground. Tigers are known for protecting humans from evil spirits. Their ferocious nature and prowess in battles make the tiger a deadly creature in mythology.
According to Chinese traditions, the tiger is symbolic of an army general. Tigers can pounce on their victims and tear their flesh apart with their claws and teeth. These creatures appear to help people face challenges in life and to overcome obstacles without fear. It is believed that tigers bring good luck to households and children.
In the entertainment industry, tigers have played an important role in games. Slot machine games like Fortune Tiger are designed with the creature as their mascot. Millions of people play Fortune Tiger with their friends during traditional celebrations such as the Chinese New Year. Symbols involved in Fortune Tiger are bags of gold, tangerines, and special decorations. You can align these symbols in a row to win rewards in Fortune Tiger. Online casinos and mobile apps provide access to Fortune Tiger for people to try the game for the first time.
Musicians have purchased the wooden yu to create soul-stirring sounds. Yu is a musical instrument that is shaped in the form of a tiger. It has 27 teeth running through the back of the instrument, resembling the stripes of the animal. It is usually played at the end of a song.
Dragon
The dragon is a prominent creature in mythological tales. It is used in Chinese culture to represent the emperor of a dynasty. Symbols of the dragon can be seen on flags, robes, and embroidery woven throughout history. Appearances of dragons are believed to bring luck and prosperity to families. The Azure Dragon was portrayed on the first Chinese national flag.
Chinese dragons are long, having legs with sharp nails. These mythical creatures are depicted floating above the mountains and in the clouds to symbolize the nature of spirit. Dragons can control forces of nature like wind, rain, thunder, and lightning. In ancient China, people worshipped dragons to gain their favor for agricultural purposes.
The New Year celebrations in China have dragon dancers performing on the streets to entertain their audiences. Dragons in Chinese culture are known for their wisdom that can transcend space and time. Boat races are also organized in China using dragon symbolism during competitions.
Phoenix
Phoenix is an immortal bird. According to legends, the phoenix rises from its own ashes. It is associated with the Sun. Renowned philosophers like Dante Alighieri and Pliny the Elder have described the phoenix in their writings. In Chinese culture, the phoenix is called Fenghuang. The earliest artifacts referring to Fenghuang were found 8000 years ago in the Hunan Province of Central China.
It is a symbol of the highest grace. The phoenix can fly above the clouds to bring rain in times of need. Weddings in China have several portrayals of the phoenix to symbolize a harmonious marriage. The body of a phoenix is stunning with vibrant colors adorning the bird. Its feathers and wings shine in daylight. The phoenix appears during times of peace to signify the beauty of nature.
Tortoise
Tortoise is a universal symbol of longevity. These creatures can live for more than 100 years during their lifetime. Tortoise shells have patterns that can be spectacular to look at. They can retract back into their shells to protect themselves from predators in the wild.
The shelled beings depict a symbol of strength and perseverance in Chinese culture. Tombs in ancient China were designed to represent tortoises for protection. It is said that Nüwa, the Chinese goddess, used the legs of a tortoise as pillars while healing the heavens from a natural disaster.
These mythical creatures and their symbolism have helped people prosper in their lives. Learning more about the history of animals in Chinese culture and mythology can be a fundamental step towards your spiritual growth.