Difference between revisions of "The Hidden or Implied Meaning of Chinese Charm Symbols"
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===Differences between {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins and {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms=== | ===Differences between {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins and {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms=== | ||
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Most old {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins have an inscription of four {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters to identify the historical [[time]] of their casting and their monetary value. | Most old {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins have an inscription of four {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters to identify the historical [[time]] of their casting and their monetary value. | ||
− | Most {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms also have four (or more) {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] {{Wiki|inscriptions}} but the inscription is not meant to identify when the charm was made or its monetary value (which is none). Instead, the inscription is either an [[auspicious]] [[desire]], such as for [[good luck]], good [[fortune]], good health, [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} examinations or business, etc., or a wish to avert misfortune from [[evil]] [[ghosts]] and [[spirits]]. | + | Most {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms also have four (or more) {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] {{Wiki|inscriptions}} but the inscription is not meant to identify when the charm was made or its monetary value (which is none). Instead, the inscription is either an [[auspicious]] [[desire]], such as for [[good luck]], good [[fortune]], [[good health]], [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} examinations or business, etc., or a wish to avert misfortune from [[evil]] [[ghosts]] and [[spirits]]. |
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(For additional [[information]] on {{Wiki|Chinese}} charm {{Wiki|inscriptions}}, please see Guide to Reading {{Wiki|Chinese}} Characters ([[Symbols]]) on Charms and English Translation of {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charm Inscriptions.) | (For additional [[information]] on {{Wiki|Chinese}} charm {{Wiki|inscriptions}}, please see Guide to Reading {{Wiki|Chinese}} Characters ([[Symbols]]) on Charms and English Translation of {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charm Inscriptions.) | ||
More importantly, and unlike {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins, most {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms also depict a variety of [[objects]] meant to enhance the {{Wiki|inscriptions}} with rich [[symbolic]] meanings. | More importantly, and unlike {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins, most {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms also depict a variety of [[objects]] meant to enhance the {{Wiki|inscriptions}} with rich [[symbolic]] meanings. | ||
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===[[Visual]] and Spoken Puns=== | ===[[Visual]] and Spoken Puns=== | ||
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One of the peculiarities of the [[Chinese language]] is that it has a very large number of written characters but a much smaller number of spoken {{Wiki|sounds}}. As a result, many {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters share the same pronunciation, i.e. are homonyms. | One of the peculiarities of the [[Chinese language]] is that it has a very large number of written characters but a much smaller number of spoken {{Wiki|sounds}}. As a result, many {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters share the same pronunciation, i.e. are homonyms. | ||
− | The charms of the [[Ming]] (1368 - 1644 AD) and Qing (Ch'ing) (1644 - 1911 AD) dynasties, in particular, frequently took advantage of this [[characteristic]]. The charms may use depictions of [[animals]], [[plants]] and other [[objects]] to substitute for other words because of their similarity in pronunciation, even though they may not have any other relationship to what is being expressed. This is what I mean by a hidden or implied meaning or [[visual]] pun, and what the {{Wiki|Chinese}} refer to as [[auspicious]] or [[lucky]] pictures (jixiangtuan 吉祥图 案). A more technical term would be a rebus. | + | |
+ | The charms of the [[Ming]] (1368 - 1644 AD) and Qing (Ch'ing) (1644 - 1911 AD) dynasties, in particular, frequently took advantage of this [[characteristic]]. The charms may use depictions of [[animals]], [[plants]] and other [[objects]] to substitute for other words because of their | ||
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+ | similarity in pronunciation, even though they may not have any other relationship to what is being expressed. This is what I mean by a hidden or implied meaning or [[visual]] pun, and what the {{Wiki|Chinese}} refer to as [[auspicious]] or [[lucky]] pictures (jixiangtuan 吉祥图 [[案]]). A more technical term would be a rebus. | ||
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==={{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Symbols]] and Their Meanings=== | ==={{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Symbols]] and Their Meanings=== | ||
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Since a fundamental difference between old {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins and charms has to do with the use of [[symbols]], a basic [[understanding]] of the [[language]] of the [[symbols]] is needed to fully appreciate {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms. Listed below, in alphabetical order, is a comprehensive list of [[objects]] that include those which have become [[symbols]] because of their similar pronunciation to [[auspicious]] {{Wiki|Chinese}} words. Also included are other [[objects]] frequently seen on charms which have become [[symbols]] due to [[mythology]], history or {{Wiki|cultural}} associations. | Since a fundamental difference between old {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins and charms has to do with the use of [[symbols]], a basic [[understanding]] of the [[language]] of the [[symbols]] is needed to fully appreciate {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms. Listed below, in alphabetical order, is a comprehensive list of [[objects]] that include those which have become [[symbols]] because of their similar pronunciation to [[auspicious]] {{Wiki|Chinese}} words. Also included are other [[objects]] frequently seen on charms which have become [[symbols]] due to [[mythology]], history or {{Wiki|cultural}} associations. | ||
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{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="20" | {| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="20" | ||
| Apple<br> | | Apple<br> | ||
− | | An apple can be a [[visual]] pun for [[peace]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for apple (pingguo 苹果) and the [[word]] for [[peace]] ( pingan 平安) are both pronounced ping.<br> | + | | An apple can be a [[visual]] pun for [[peace]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for apple (pingguo 苹果) and the [[word]] for [[peace]] ( pingan [[平安]]) are both pronounced ping.<br> |
− | A persimmon (shi 柿) paired with an apple (pingguo 苹果) [[forms]] the rebus "may your matters (shi [[事]]) be safe ( pingan 平安)". <br> | + | A persimmon (shi 柿) paired with an apple (pingguo 苹果) [[forms]] the rebus "may your matters (shi [[事]]) be safe ( pingan [[平安]])". <br> |
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| Apricot<br> | | Apricot<br> | ||
− | | An apricot grove, or field of apricots, is a [[symbol]] for [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} examination system because the very first celebration honoring successful candidates allegedly took place in an apricot grove.<br> | + | | An apricot grove, or field of apricots, is a [[symbol]] for [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} {{Wiki|examination}} system because the very first celebration honoring successful candidates allegedly took place in an apricot grove.<br> |
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| Axe (axe head)<br> | | Axe (axe head)<br> | ||
− | | The axe (fu 斧) has the same pronunciation as "[[happiness]]" (fu 福) and as a weapon [[symbolizes]] power and the ability to punish.<br> | + | | The axe ([[fu]] 斧) has the same pronunciation as "[[happiness]]" ([[fu]] [[福]]) and as a weapon [[symbolizes]] power and the ability to punish.<br> |
The axe head is also one of the Twelve {{Wiki|Imperial}} [[Symbols]].<br> | The axe head is also one of the Twelve {{Wiki|Imperial}} [[Symbols]].<br> | ||
The axe is also the [[symbol]] of Lu Ban (鲁班) who is known as the [[God]] of Carpenters.<br> | The axe is also the [[symbol]] of Lu Ban (鲁班) who is known as the [[God]] of Carpenters.<br> | ||
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The axe can also refer to a [[marriage]] matchmaker.<br> | The axe can also refer to a [[marriage]] matchmaker.<br> | ||
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| {{Wiki|Bamboo}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Bamboo}}<br> | ||
| {{Wiki|Bamboo}} [[symbolizes]] the ideals of a {{Wiki|Confucian}} [[scholar]] because both are [[perceived]] as upright, strong and resilient while still being gentle, graceful and refined.<br> | | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} [[symbolizes]] the ideals of a {{Wiki|Confucian}} [[scholar]] because both are [[perceived]] as upright, strong and resilient while still being gentle, graceful and refined.<br> | ||
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{{Wiki|Bamboo}} also represents the ideals of the {{Wiki|Taoists}} ({{Wiki|Daoists}}) because it can bend during the worst weather but not break.<br> | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} also represents the ideals of the {{Wiki|Taoists}} ({{Wiki|Daoists}}) because it can bend during the worst weather but not break.<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|bamboo}} is a member of the Three Friends in Winter.<br> | The {{Wiki|bamboo}} is a member of the Three Friends in Winter.<br> | ||
− | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} depicted on a charm is also a pun because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for {{Wiki|bamboo}} (zhu 竹) and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "to wish" or "to congratulate" (zhu 祝) are pronounced the same.<br> | + | |
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+ | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} depicted on a charm is also a pun because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for {{Wiki|bamboo}} (zhu [[竹]]) and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "to wish" or "to congratulate" (zhu 祝) are pronounced the same.<br> | ||
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Because it has a "hollow center" (kongxu 空虚), {{Wiki|bamboo}} also [[symbolizes]] "modesty" (qianxu 谦虚) because the second [[character]] for both has the same pronunciation (xu).<br> | Because it has a "hollow center" (kongxu 空虚), {{Wiki|bamboo}} also [[symbolizes]] "modesty" (qianxu 谦虚) because the second [[character]] for both has the same pronunciation (xu).<br> | ||
− | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} was [[traditionally]] used to frighten away [[evil spirits]], such as the [[mythical]] beast [[Nian]] (年), because when placed in a [[fire]] it would create a loud crackling [[sound]] similar to firecrackers.<br> | + | |
− | A charm with the {{Wiki|bamboo}} [[symbol]] may be seen at Liu Hai and the Three-Legged Toad.<br> | + | |
+ | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} was [[traditionally]] used to frighten away [[evil spirits]], such as the [[mythical]] beast [[Nian]] ([[年]]), because when placed in a [[fire]] it would create a loud crackling [[sound]] similar to firecrackers.<br> | ||
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+ | A charm with the {{Wiki|bamboo}} [[symbol]] may be seen at [[Liu]] Hai and the Three-Legged Toad.<br> | ||
{{Wiki|Bamboo}} tallies, a type of token currency that circulated in parts of eastern [[China]] during the late {{Wiki|Qing Dynasty}} and early Republican period, are discussed in detail at {{Wiki|Bamboo}} Tallies.<br> | {{Wiki|Bamboo}} tallies, a type of token currency that circulated in parts of eastern [[China]] during the late {{Wiki|Qing Dynasty}} and early Republican period, are discussed in detail at {{Wiki|Bamboo}} Tallies.<br> | ||
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| Bat<br> | | Bat<br> | ||
− | | A picture of a bat (fu 蝠) can be a [[visual]] pun for "good [[fortune]]" or [[happiness]] (fu 福) because both characters are pronounced fu. Often the bat is shown flying upside down because the [[character]] ([[dao]] 倒) for "upside-down" and the [[character]] ([[dao]] 到) meaning "to have arrived" are both pronounced [[dao]]. Therefore, if a [[person]] were to say "the bat is flying upside down" a listener could just as easily hear this as "[[happiness]] has arrived" which, of course, has a very [[auspicious]] connotation. ([[View]] charms with"upside down" bat and eight [[treasures]], [[Zhong]] Kui, [[Zhong]] Kui, Liu Hai, and {{Wiki|deer}}.)<br> | + | | A picture of a bat ([[fu]] 蝠) can be a [[visual]] pun for "good [[fortune]]" or [[happiness]] ([[fu]] [[福]]) because both characters are pronounced [[fu]]. Often the bat is shown flying upside down because the [[character]] ([[dao]] 倒) for "upside-down" and the [[character]] ([[dao]] 到) meaning "to have arrived" are both pronounced [[dao]]. Therefore, if a [[person]] were to say "the bat is flying upside down" a listener could just as easily hear this as "[[happiness]] has arrived" which, of course, has a very [[auspicious]] connotation. ([[View]] charms with"upside down" bat and eight [[treasures]], [[Zhong]] Kui, [[Zhong]] Kui, [[Liu]] Hai, and {{Wiki|deer}}.)<br> |
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Additionally, "a bat descending from the sky" (fuzi tianlai 蝠子天来) {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like "[[happiness]] descends from [[heaven]]" (fuzi tianlai 福子天来).<br> | Additionally, "a bat descending from the sky" (fuzi tianlai 蝠子天来) {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like "[[happiness]] descends from [[heaven]]" (fuzi tianlai 福子天来).<br> | ||
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Two bats facing each other mean double good [[fortune]] or [[happiness]].<br> | Two bats facing each other mean double good [[fortune]] or [[happiness]].<br> | ||
− | Some charms display five bats which stand for the "Five [[Blessings]]", namely longevity, [[wealth]], health and composure, [[virtue]], and the [[desire]] to [[die]] a natural [[death]] in [[old age]]. ([[View]] five bat charm.)<br> | + | Some charms display five bats which stand for the "Five [[Blessings]]", namely longevity, [[wealth]], [[health]] and composure, [[virtue]], and the [[desire]] to [[die]] a natural [[death]] in [[old age]]. ([[View]] five bat charm.)<br> |
− | A very popular design found in many {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} houses consists of five bats surrounding the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for "longevity" (shou 壽) which represents the expression wu fu peng shou (五 福捧寿) or "five fortunes surround longevity". (See {{Wiki|Chinese}} House and Open Work Charms)<br> | + | |
− | A {{Wiki|Chinese}} charm or coin with a square central hole is sometimes referred to as an "[[eye]] coin" (yanqian 眼钱). The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for coin or [[money]] (qian 钱) is pronounced the same as the [[word]] for "before" (qian 前). Therefore, a picture of a bat (fu 蝠) on (zai 在) an "[[eye]] coin" (yanqian 眼钱) creates a [[visual]] pun since saying there is a "bat on the coin" (fu zai yan qian) {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like saying "[[happiness]] is before your [[eyes]]" (fu zai yan qian 福在眼前).<br> | + | |
+ | A very popular design found in many {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} houses consists of five bats surrounding the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for "longevity" (shou 壽) which represents the expression wu [[fu]] peng shou (五 福捧寿) or "five fortunes surround longevity". (See {{Wiki|Chinese}} House and Open Work Charms)<br> | ||
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+ | A {{Wiki|Chinese}} charm or coin with a square central hole is sometimes referred to as an "[[eye]] coin" (yanqian 眼钱). The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for coin or [[money]] (qian 钱) is pronounced the same as the [[word]] for "before" (qian 前). Therefore, a picture of a bat ([[fu]] 蝠) on (zai 在) an "[[eye]] coin" (yanqian 眼钱) creates a [[visual]] pun since saying there is a "bat on the coin" ([[fu]] zai yan qian) {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like saying "[[happiness]] is before your [[eyes]]" ([[fu]] zai yan qian 福在眼前).<br> | ||
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Bats live in [[caves]] which represent portals to the beyond.<br> | Bats live in [[caves]] which represent portals to the beyond.<br> | ||
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| Bear<br> | | Bear<br> | ||
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| The bear (xiong 熊) is not often depicted on {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms and amulets but it is a powerful [[animal]] that the {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe can invoke {{Wiki|fear}} in [[evil spirits]] just as well as [[humans]].<br> | | The bear (xiong 熊) is not often depicted on {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms and amulets but it is a powerful [[animal]] that the {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe can invoke {{Wiki|fear}} in [[evil spirits]] just as well as [[humans]].<br> | ||
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However, the bear is sometimes shown with an {{Wiki|eagle}} because {{Wiki|eagle}} or {{Wiki|hawk}} ([[ying]] 鹰) and bear (xiong 熊) together [[sound]] just like the [[word]] "[[hero]]" (yingxiong 英雄). <br> | However, the bear is sometimes shown with an {{Wiki|eagle}} because {{Wiki|eagle}} or {{Wiki|hawk}} ([[ying]] 鹰) and bear (xiong 熊) together [[sound]] just like the [[word]] "[[hero]]" (yingxiong 英雄). <br> | ||
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| {{Wiki|Boar}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Boar}}<br> | ||
| See entry for pig below.<br> | | See entry for pig below.<br> | ||
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| Bran<br> | | Bran<br> | ||
− | | Bran ({{Wiki|wheat}} bran) is an [[auspicious]] {{Wiki|fertility}} [[symbol]] at marriages because its pronunciation (fu zi 麸子) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as "rich son" (fu zi 富子) thus representing the wish that the couple will produce children who will become wealthy.<br> | + | | Bran ({{Wiki|wheat}} bran) is an [[auspicious]] {{Wiki|fertility}} [[symbol]] at marriages because its pronunciation ([[fu]] zi 麸子) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as "rich son" ([[fu]] zi 富子) thus representing the wish that the couple will produce children who will become wealthy.<br> |
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| [[Buddha's]] Hand <br> | | [[Buddha's]] Hand <br> | ||
− | | See entry for citron below.<br> | + | | See entry for [[citron]] below.<br> |
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| Butterfly<br> | | Butterfly<br> | ||
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| The butterfly is a [[symbol]] of long [[life]] because the second [[character]] in butterfly (hudie 蝴蝶) has exactly the same pronounciation as the [[character]] 耋 ([[die]]) which means "70 or 80 years of age".<br> | | The butterfly is a [[symbol]] of long [[life]] because the second [[character]] in butterfly (hudie 蝴蝶) has exactly the same pronounciation as the [[character]] 耋 ([[die]]) which means "70 or 80 years of age".<br> | ||
The butterfly also {{Wiki|signifies}} [[joy]] and warmth.<br> | The butterfly also {{Wiki|signifies}} [[joy]] and warmth.<br> | ||
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| Cabbage<br> | | Cabbage<br> | ||
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| The cabbage (baicai 白菜 or qingcai 清菜) is a [[symbol]] for [[wealth]] because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] "[[money]]" or "[[wealth]]" (cai 财).<br> | | The cabbage (baicai 白菜 or qingcai 清菜) is a [[symbol]] for [[wealth]] because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] "[[money]]" or "[[wealth]]" (cai 财).<br> | ||
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| Calamus (Sweet [[Flag]])<br> | | Calamus (Sweet [[Flag]])<br> | ||
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| Calamus ([[chang]] pu 菖蒲), also known as "sweet [[flag]]", is a plant with long and stiff leaves which resemble swords.<br> | | Calamus ([[chang]] pu 菖蒲), also known as "sweet [[flag]]", is a plant with long and stiff leaves which resemble swords.<br> | ||
Since swords provide [[protection]], hanging calamus above gates and doors is believed to help {{Wiki|protect}} from [[evil spirits]], {{Wiki|disease}} and misfortune.<br> | Since swords provide [[protection]], hanging calamus above gates and doors is believed to help {{Wiki|protect}} from [[evil spirits]], {{Wiki|disease}} and misfortune.<br> | ||
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| Carp<br> | | Carp<br> | ||
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| The carp {{Wiki|fish}} is a commonly seen [[visual]] pun because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for carp (li 鲤) is pronounced the same as both the [[character]] (li [[利]]) for "profit" and the [[character]] (li 力) for "strength" or "power".<br> | | The carp {{Wiki|fish}} is a commonly seen [[visual]] pun because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for carp (li 鲤) is pronounced the same as both the [[character]] (li [[利]]) for "profit" and the [[character]] (li 力) for "strength" or "power".<br> | ||
The carp is also a [[symbol]] for an abundance of children because it produces many eggs.<br> | The carp is also a [[symbol]] for an abundance of children because it produces many eggs.<br> | ||
A pair of carp [[symbolizes]] a harmonious [[marriage]].<br> | A pair of carp [[symbolizes]] a harmonious [[marriage]].<br> | ||
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A frequently seen image is of a carp swimming and leaping against the current of a [[river]] to reach the spawning grounds. This refers to the legend (liyutiaolongmen 鲤鱼跳龙门) that a carp which is able to leap over the [[mythical]] "[[Dragon]] Gate" will become a [[dragon]]. This is an allegory for the persistent [[effort]] needed to overcome [[obstacles]].<br> | A frequently seen image is of a carp swimming and leaping against the current of a [[river]] to reach the spawning grounds. This refers to the legend (liyutiaolongmen 鲤鱼跳龙门) that a carp which is able to leap over the [[mythical]] "[[Dragon]] Gate" will become a [[dragon]]. This is an allegory for the persistent [[effort]] needed to overcome [[obstacles]].<br> | ||
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See a carp {{Wiki|fish}} charm at {{Wiki|Fish}} Charms.<br> | See a carp {{Wiki|fish}} charm at {{Wiki|Fish}} Charms.<br> | ||
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The carp used for [[medicine]] was the quest in a famous story of Wang [[Xiang]] and filial piety.<br> | The carp used for [[medicine]] was the quest in a famous story of Wang [[Xiang]] and filial piety.<br> | ||
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See a reference to the carp/dragon allegory and the horns of Kuixing ([[God]] of Examinations) at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | See a reference to the carp/dragon allegory and the horns of Kuixing ([[God]] of Examinations) at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
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Additional [[information]] can be found at the entry for {{Wiki|fish}} below.<br> | Additional [[information]] can be found at the entry for {{Wiki|fish}} below.<br> | ||
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| Cassia (Cinnamon)<br> | | Cassia (Cinnamon)<br> | ||
− | | The cassia is an evergreen plant with bright yellow [[flowers]] that is sometimes incorrectly referred to as {{Wiki|Chinese}} cinnamon.<br> | + | | The cassia is an evergreen plant with bright [[yellow]] [[flowers]] that is sometimes incorrectly referred to as {{Wiki|Chinese}} cinnamon.<br> |
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The cassia is closely associated with the [[myth]] of Chang'e ("[[Moon Goddess]]") and the "[[Moon]] Hare" ("[[Jade Rabbit]]").<br> | The cassia is closely associated with the [[myth]] of Chang'e ("[[Moon Goddess]]") and the "[[Moon]] Hare" ("[[Jade Rabbit]]").<br> | ||
In {{Wiki|Chinese}}, cassia (gui 桂) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "high rank" (gui 贵).<br> | In {{Wiki|Chinese}}, cassia (gui 桂) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "high rank" (gui 贵).<br> | ||
Cassia and peaches together represent "high rank" and "longevity".<br> | Cassia and peaches together represent "high rank" and "longevity".<br> | ||
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Cassia and [[seeds]] ([[lotus]], pomegranate, {{Wiki|gourd}}) together expresses the [[desire]] for many sons who will achieve high office.<br> | Cassia and [[seeds]] ([[lotus]], pomegranate, {{Wiki|gourd}}) together expresses the [[desire]] for many sons who will achieve high office.<br> | ||
− | The cassia represents [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} examination system which is explained in detail at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | + | The cassia represents [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} {{Wiki|examination}} system which is explained in detail at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> |
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See also "Cassia and Orchid" Charm.<br> | See also "Cassia and Orchid" Charm.<br> | ||
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| Castanets<br> | | Castanets<br> | ||
| A [[symbol]] that resembles an "X" is sometimes found on {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms. This is actually a pair of wooden clappers or castanets crossed one over the other.<br> | | A [[symbol]] that resembles an "X" is sometimes found on {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms. This is actually a pair of wooden clappers or castanets crossed one over the other.<br> | ||
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The {{Wiki|Chinese}} call these castanets or clappers [[yin yang]] ban (阴阳板).<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} call these castanets or clappers [[yin yang]] ban (阴阳板).<br> | ||
It is believed that castanets were originally derived from the narrow tablet (hu 笏) that an official would carry authorizing his access to the {{Wiki|imperial}} palace. Depending upon rank, these tablets were made of [[jade]], ivory, {{Wiki|bamboo}} and shark's {{Wiki|skin}}, or {{Wiki|bamboo}} and [[jade]].<br> | It is believed that castanets were originally derived from the narrow tablet (hu 笏) that an official would carry authorizing his access to the {{Wiki|imperial}} palace. Depending upon rank, these tablets were made of [[jade]], ivory, {{Wiki|bamboo}} and shark's {{Wiki|skin}}, or {{Wiki|bamboo}} and [[jade]].<br> | ||
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The castanets are also the [[symbol]] associated with Cao Guojiu ([[曹]] 国舅), one of the [[Eight Immortals]].<br> | The castanets are also the [[symbol]] associated with Cao Guojiu ([[曹]] 国舅), one of the [[Eight Immortals]].<br> | ||
A charm displaying a pair of castanets or [[yin yang]] ban may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | A charm displaying a pair of castanets or [[yin yang]] ban may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
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| {{Wiki|Cat}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Cat}}<br> | ||
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| The {{Wiki|cat}} (mao 猫) [[symbolizes]] wishes for a long [[life]] because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for an 80 year old or "octogenarian" (mao 耄).<br> | | The {{Wiki|cat}} (mao 猫) [[symbolizes]] wishes for a long [[life]] because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for an 80 year old or "octogenarian" (mao 耄).<br> | ||
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The {{Wiki|cat}} is also the [[protector]] of silkworms because it can ward off and kill mice and rats which attack these producers of {{Wiki|silk}} thread.<br> | The {{Wiki|cat}} is also the [[protector]] of silkworms because it can ward off and kill mice and rats which attack these producers of {{Wiki|silk}} thread.<br> | ||
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See the {{Wiki|cat}} at The [[Five Poisons]].<br> | See the {{Wiki|cat}} at The [[Five Poisons]].<br> | ||
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| Chestnut<br> | | Chestnut<br> | ||
− | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for chestnut (lizi 栗子) {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like saying "establishing" (li 立) "sons" or "children" (zi [[子]]) and therefore is a [[good luck]] [[symbol]] for creating a family.<br> | + | |
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+ | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for chestnut (lizi 栗子) {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like saying "establishing" (li 立) "sons" or "children" (zi [[子]]) and therefore is a [[good luck]] [[symbol]] for creating a [[family]].<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|Chinese}} refer to the eight-sided holes found on many Tang and {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}} coins as [[flower]] or chestnut holes.<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} refer to the eight-sided holes found on many Tang and {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}} coins as [[flower]] or chestnut holes.<br> | ||
− | The first [[character]] in chestnut (li 栗) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as "{{Wiki|etiquette}}" or "manners" (li 礼) and [[symbolizes]] those qualities in women.<br> | + | The first [[character]] in chestnut (li 栗) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as "{{Wiki|etiquette}}" or "manners" (li [[礼]]) and [[symbolizes]] those qualities in women.<br> |
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| Chopsticks | | Chopsticks | ||
| Chopsticks (kuai zi 筷子) [[symbolize]] the {{Wiki|hope}} for newlyweds to have children quickly because the pronunciation is the same as "fast" (kuai 快) "sons" (zi [[子]]). (See {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Marriage]].)<br> | | Chopsticks (kuai zi 筷子) [[symbolize]] the {{Wiki|hope}} for newlyweds to have children quickly because the pronunciation is the same as "fast" (kuai 快) "sons" (zi [[子]]). (See {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Marriage]].)<br> | ||
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| [[Chime]] Stone<br> | | [[Chime]] Stone<br> | ||
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| The [[chime]] stone (qing 磬) was a percussion musical instrument in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]]. Each [[chime]] stone was flat and shaped similar to a chevron. A small hole at the top center allowed the stone to be hung from a frame. The musical instrument consisted of a set of 8 to 24 of these [[chime]] stones with each tuned to a different pitch. When struck with a mallet the [[chime]] stone produced a musical [[sound]].<br> | | The [[chime]] stone (qing 磬) was a percussion musical instrument in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]]. Each [[chime]] stone was flat and shaped similar to a chevron. A small hole at the top center allowed the stone to be hung from a frame. The musical instrument consisted of a set of 8 to 24 of these [[chime]] stones with each tuned to a different pitch. When struck with a mallet the [[chime]] stone produced a musical [[sound]].<br> | ||
Since many [[chime]] stones were made of [[jade]], the [[chime]] stone also [[symbolizes]] [[wealth]] and riches.<br> | Since many [[chime]] stones were made of [[jade]], the [[chime]] stone also [[symbolizes]] [[wealth]] and riches.<br> | ||
The stone [[chime]] (qing 磬) has the same pronunciation, and thus the hidden meaning, of to "congratulate" (qing 庆).<br> | The stone [[chime]] (qing 磬) has the same pronunciation, and thus the hidden meaning, of to "congratulate" (qing 庆).<br> | ||
The [[chime]] stone is also considered one of the Eight [[Treasures]].<br> | The [[chime]] stone is also considered one of the Eight [[Treasures]].<br> | ||
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See a charm displaying a [[chime]] stone at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | See a charm displaying a [[chime]] stone at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
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| Chrysanthemum | | Chrysanthemum | ||
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| The chrysanthemum {{Wiki|signifies}} the tenth month of the {{Wiki|lunar calendar}}.<br> | | The chrysanthemum {{Wiki|signifies}} the tenth month of the {{Wiki|lunar calendar}}.<br> | ||
The chrysanthemum, one of the Four Gentlemen, blooms late and in facing the winter [[symbolizes]] [[people]] who maintain their [[virtue]] despite adversity and {{Wiki|temptation}}.<br> | The chrysanthemum, one of the Four Gentlemen, blooms late and in facing the winter [[symbolizes]] [[people]] who maintain their [[virtue]] despite adversity and {{Wiki|temptation}}.<br> | ||
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Chrysanthemum (ju 菊) sometimes is a [[symbol]] for "forever" (yongjiu 永久), and thus meaning "longevity", because of the similarity in pronunciation. For the same [[reason]], the chrysanthemum can also stand for the number "nine" (jiu 九).<br> | Chrysanthemum (ju 菊) sometimes is a [[symbol]] for "forever" (yongjiu 永久), and thus meaning "longevity", because of the similarity in pronunciation. For the same [[reason]], the chrysanthemum can also stand for the number "nine" (jiu 九).<br> | ||
See the chrysanthemum [[symbol]] on an unusual charm at {{Wiki|Chinese}} Boy Charms.<br> | See the chrysanthemum [[symbol]] on an unusual charm at {{Wiki|Chinese}} Boy Charms.<br> | ||
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| Cicada<br> | | Cicada<br> | ||
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| The cicada is a [[symbol]] of [[rebirth]] and [[immortality]] because after surviving underground for a long period of [[time]] it emerges and flies into the sky.<br> | | The cicada is a [[symbol]] of [[rebirth]] and [[immortality]] because after surviving underground for a long period of [[time]] it emerges and flies into the sky.<br> | ||
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− | | Citron or [[Buddha's]] Hand<br> | + | |
− | | The citron is a bright yellow lemon-like fruit with a thick rind and long finger-like tendrils. Because it resembles the familiar hand position of the [[Buddha]], the citron has the [[auspicious]] {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[name]] of foshou (佛手) which literally means "[[Buddha's]] Hand".<br> | + | |
− | The [[name]] foshou {{Wiki|sounds}} very similar to the words fu (福 [[happiness]]) and shou (寿 longevity) and therefore the citron is a [[symbol]] for "[[happiness]] and longevity".<br> | + | | [[Citron]] or [[Buddha's]] Hand<br> |
− | The citron is one of the "Three Abundances" (Three Plenties).<br> | + | |
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+ | | The [[citron]] is a bright [[yellow]] lemon-like fruit with a thick rind and long finger-like tendrils. Because it resembles the familiar hand position of the [[Buddha]], the [[citron]] has the [[auspicious]] {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[name]] of foshou (佛手) which literally means "[[Buddha's]] Hand".<br> | ||
+ | The [[name]] foshou {{Wiki|sounds}} very similar to the words [[fu]] ([[福]] [[happiness]]) and shou (寿 longevity) and therefore the [[citron]] is a [[symbol]] for "[[happiness]] and longevity".<br> | ||
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+ | The [[citron]] is one of the "Three Abundances" (Three Plenties).<br> | ||
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| Clouds<br> | | Clouds<br> | ||
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| Clouds, sometimes referred to as "[[auspicious]] clouds" (xiangyun 祥云), represent the [[heavens]] and also "[[good luck]]" because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for cloud (yun 云) is pronounced the same as yun (运) meaning "[[luck]]" or "[[fortune]]".<br> | | Clouds, sometimes referred to as "[[auspicious]] clouds" (xiangyun 祥云), represent the [[heavens]] and also "[[good luck]]" because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for cloud (yun 云) is pronounced the same as yun (运) meaning "[[luck]]" or "[[fortune]]".<br> | ||
Its [[form]] often resembles the [[auspicious]] shape of the [[lingzhi]] "fungus of [[immortality]]".<br> | Its [[form]] often resembles the [[auspicious]] shape of the [[lingzhi]] "fungus of [[immortality]]".<br> | ||
The cloud is a commonly seen design and when repeated in a pattern [[symbolizes]] never-ending [[fortune]].<br> | The cloud is a commonly seen design and when repeated in a pattern [[symbolizes]] never-ending [[fortune]].<br> | ||
− | For a comprehensive [[discussion]] of the relationship of the cloud, [[dragon]], star, and [[moon]] [[symbols]] please visit Charm [[Symbols]]: Star, [[Moon]], Cloud and [[Dragon]].<br> | + | For a comprehensive [[discussion]] of the relationship of the cloud, [[dragon]], [[star]], and [[moon]] [[symbols]] please visit Charm [[Symbols]]: [[Star]], [[Moon]], Cloud and [[Dragon]].<br> |
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[[Auspicious]] clouds may be seen on coins and charms at the following: [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions, {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins with Charm Features, [[Buddhist]] Charms, [[Daoist]] Charms.<br> | [[Auspicious]] clouds may be seen on coins and charms at the following: [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions, {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins with Charm Features, [[Buddhist]] Charms, [[Daoist]] Charms.<br> | ||
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| Coin<br> | | Coin<br> | ||
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| {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins are a potent [[symbol]] of [[wealth]] and {{Wiki|prosperity}}.<br> | | {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins are a potent [[symbol]] of [[wealth]] and {{Wiki|prosperity}}.<br> | ||
The coin is one of the "Eight [[Treasures]]".<br> | The coin is one of the "Eight [[Treasures]]".<br> | ||
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{{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins are round with a square hole in the middle which reflects the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[view]] of the [[earth]] as square and the [[heavens]] as a circle.<br> | {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins are round with a square hole in the middle which reflects the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[view]] of the [[earth]] as square and the [[heavens]] as a circle.<br> | ||
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A coin (qian 钱) can be a [[visual]] pun for "before your [[eyes]]" because the hole in the center is called an "[[eye]]" and the coin (qian) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] "before" (qian 前).<br> | A coin (qian 钱) can be a [[visual]] pun for "before your [[eyes]]" because the hole in the center is called an "[[eye]]" and the coin (qian) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] "before" (qian 前).<br> | ||
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An old [[word]] for coin is quan (泉). A pair of coins is shuang quan (双泉) which has the same pronunciation as "both complete" (shuang quan 双 全).<br> | An old [[word]] for coin is quan (泉). A pair of coins is shuang quan (双泉) which has the same pronunciation as "both complete" (shuang quan 双 全).<br> | ||
See a charm incorporating a "pair of coins" as a [[visual]] pun or rebus at [[Bagua]] Charms.<br> | See a charm incorporating a "pair of coins" as a [[visual]] pun or rebus at [[Bagua]] Charms.<br> | ||
− | For a history, including images, of {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins and other [[forms]] of [[money]] please visit {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins.<br> | + | For a history, [[including]] images, of {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins and other [[forms]] of [[money]] please visit {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins.<br> |
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− | | Coral<br> | + | |
− | | Coral (shanhu 珊瑚) is included as one of the Eight [[Treasures]] and [[symbolizes]] longevity and official promotion.<br> | + | |
− | As a [[symbol]] of longevity, the {{Wiki|Chinese}} have [[traditionally]] believed that coral represents an "{{Wiki|iron}} [[tree]]" (tieshu 铁树) that grew under the sea and blossomed only once every hundred years.<br> | + | |
− | Red coral is considered particularly [[auspicious]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe the {{Wiki|color}} red {{Wiki|signifies}} [[good luck]], good [[fortune]], and [[happiness]]. (See ribbons and fillets for more about the {{Wiki|color}} red.)<br> | + | | [[Coral]]<br> |
− | Coral resembles {{Wiki|deer}} antlers and {{Wiki|deer}} are [[symbols]] of longevity.<br> | + | |
− | Coral is also a [[symbol]] of official promotion because a coral button on the hat identified one of the nine grades of government officials. | + | |
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+ | | [[Coral]] (shanhu 珊瑚) is included as one of the Eight [[Treasures]] and [[symbolizes]] longevity and official promotion.<br> | ||
+ | As a [[symbol]] of longevity, the {{Wiki|Chinese}} have [[traditionally]] believed that [[coral]] represents an "{{Wiki|iron}} [[tree]]" (tieshu 铁树) that grew under the sea and blossomed only once every hundred years.<br> | ||
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+ | [[Red]] [[coral]] is considered particularly [[auspicious]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe the {{Wiki|color}} [[red]] {{Wiki|signifies}} [[good luck]], good [[fortune]], and [[happiness]]. (See ribbons and fillets for more about the {{Wiki|color}} [[red]].)<br> | ||
+ | [[Coral]] resembles {{Wiki|deer}} antlers and {{Wiki|deer}} are [[symbols]] of longevity.<br> | ||
+ | [[Coral]] is also a [[symbol]] of official promotion because a [[coral]] button on the hat identified one of the nine grades of government officials. | ||
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| Crab<br> | | Crab<br> | ||
− | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for crab (蟹) and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[harmony]] (协) are both pronounced xie. The crab [[symbol]] is sometimes used on charms which express a [[desire]] for [[peace]] such as the large tian xia tai ping ([[天]] 下太平) charm shown at [[Peace]] Coins and Charms.<br> | + | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for crab (蟹) and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[harmony]] (协) are both pronounced xie. The crab [[symbol]] is sometimes used on charms which express a [[desire]] for [[peace]] such as the large [[tian]] xia tai ping ([[天]] 下太平) charm shown at [[Peace]] Coins and Charms.<br> |
− | The crab is also used to [[symbolize]] [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} examination system. This is because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for the crab's shell (jia [[甲]]) has the additional meaning of "first" as in achieving the [[highest]] score in the examination to become a government official.<br> | + | |
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+ | The crab is also used to [[symbolize]] [[success]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} {{Wiki|examination}} system. This is because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for the crab's shell (jia [[甲]]) has the additional meaning of "first" as in achieving the [[highest]] score in the {{Wiki|examination}} to become a government official.<br> | ||
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An example of a charm depicting a crab with this hidden meaning can be seen at Eight [[Treasures]].<br> | An example of a charm depicting a crab with this hidden meaning can be seen at Eight [[Treasures]].<br> | ||
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| Crane<br> | | Crane<br> | ||
| The crane (he 鹤) is believed by the {{Wiki|Chinese}} to live to a very [[old age]] and therefore is a [[symbol]] of longevity.<br> | | The crane (he 鹤) is believed by the {{Wiki|Chinese}} to live to a very [[old age]] and therefore is a [[symbol]] of longevity.<br> | ||
The crane's white feathers also represent [[old age]].<br> | The crane's white feathers also represent [[old age]].<br> | ||
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A crane [[standing]] alone can represent [[success]] in becoming a high government official as seen on a charm at Pendant Charms.<br> | A crane [[standing]] alone can represent [[success]] in becoming a high government official as seen on a charm at Pendant Charms.<br> | ||
To see a crane on other old charms please visit [[Daoist]] ([[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]]) Charms and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | To see a crane on other old charms please visit [[Daoist]] ([[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]]) Charms and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
[[Myths]] describe [[spirits]] and [[immortals]] as riding on cranes.<br> | [[Myths]] describe [[spirits]] and [[immortals]] as riding on cranes.<br> | ||
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The [[souls]] of the [[dead]] are said to be carried to the [[heavens]] by cranes.<br> | The [[souls]] of the [[dead]] are said to be carried to the [[heavens]] by cranes.<br> | ||
The image of the crane was embroidered on the [[robes]] of high government officials.<br> | The image of the crane was embroidered on the [[robes]] of high government officials.<br> | ||
Because the pronunciation (he) is the same as that for the [[word]] "[[harmony]]" (he 合), the crane is sometimes shown on charms to imply a good and harmonious [[marriage]].<br> | Because the pronunciation (he) is the same as that for the [[word]] "[[harmony]]" (he 合), the crane is sometimes shown on charms to imply a good and harmonious [[marriage]].<br> | ||
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(Nowadays, the "crane" is humorously referred to as the "national bird of [[China]]". In this case, however, the "crane" refers to the large machines used to lift heavy [[objects]] to the top of buildings as part of [[China's]] major construction boom!)<br> | (Nowadays, the "crane" is humorously referred to as the "national bird of [[China]]". In this case, however, the "crane" refers to the large machines used to lift heavy [[objects]] to the top of buildings as part of [[China's]] major construction boom!)<br> | ||
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| Cypress<br> | | Cypress<br> | ||
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| Because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for cypress (bai 柏) is pronounced the same as the [[word]] for "one hundred" (bai 百), the cypress is frequently paired with other [[symbols]] to express "many" or "everything".<br> | | Because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for cypress (bai 柏) is pronounced the same as the [[word]] for "one hundred" (bai 百), the cypress is frequently paired with other [[symbols]] to express "many" or "everything".<br> | ||
− | Cypress leaves were used in {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} weddings.<br> | + | Cypress leaves were used in {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} {{Wiki|weddings}}.<br> |
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| Date<br> | | Date<br> | ||
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| The date fruit or {{Wiki|Chinese}} jujube (zao 枣) conveys the meaning that something is going to happen soon because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "early" or "soon" (zao 早).<br> | | The date fruit or {{Wiki|Chinese}} jujube (zao 枣) conveys the meaning that something is going to happen soon because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "early" or "soon" (zao 早).<br> | ||
− | For this [[reason]], dates were placed on bridal beds and the [[wood]] of the date [[tree]] was used to construct beds for children.<br> | + | |
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+ | For this [[reason]], dates were placed on bridal beds and the [[wood]] of the date [[tree]] was used [[to construct]] beds for children.<br> | ||
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| {{Wiki|Deer}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Deer}}<br> | ||
| {{Wiki|Deer}} are among the most frequently seen [[animals]] on charms. The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for {{Wiki|deer}} is [[鹿]] which is pronounced lu. The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] 禄, which refers to the salary a government official receives, is also pronounced lu. A picture of a {{Wiki|deer}} is therefore expressing a wish for a top government office with a high salary.<br> | | {{Wiki|Deer}} are among the most frequently seen [[animals]] on charms. The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for {{Wiki|deer}} is [[鹿]] which is pronounced lu. The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] 禄, which refers to the salary a government official receives, is also pronounced lu. A picture of a {{Wiki|deer}} is therefore expressing a wish for a top government office with a high salary.<br> | ||
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The {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe the {{Wiki|deer}} [[lives]] to a very great age and, as a result, has become a [[symbol]] for long [[life]].<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe the {{Wiki|deer}} [[lives]] to a very great age and, as a result, has become a [[symbol]] for long [[life]].<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|deer}} is [[traditionally]] believed to be the only [[animal]] able to find the [[magical]] [[lingzhi]] fungus of [[immortality]].<br> | The {{Wiki|deer}} is [[traditionally]] believed to be the only [[animal]] able to find the [[magical]] [[lingzhi]] fungus of [[immortality]].<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|deer}} is often seen by the side of Shou, the [[God]] of Longevity.<br> | The {{Wiki|deer}} is often seen by the side of Shou, the [[God]] of Longevity.<br> | ||
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The {{Wiki|deer}} often is used as a [[verbal]] pun to refer to the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} which has the same pronunciation (lu).<br> | The {{Wiki|deer}} often is used as a [[verbal]] pun to refer to the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} which has the same pronunciation (lu).<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|deer}} as a [[symbol]] used on charms may be seen at the following: Men Plow, Women Weave, Eight [[Treasures]], and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions. | The {{Wiki|deer}} as a [[symbol]] used on charms may be seen at the following: Men Plow, Women Weave, Eight [[Treasures]], and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions. | ||
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| {{Wiki|Dog}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Dog}}<br> | ||
| The {{Wiki|dog}} (gou 狗) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | | The {{Wiki|dog}} (gou 狗) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | ||
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| Door [[Gods]]<br> | | Door [[Gods]]<br> | ||
| The Door [[Gods]] are images of two {{Wiki|warriors}}, Shen Tu and Yu Lei, which are hung on gates or doors to {{Wiki|protect}} against [[evil spirits]] and misfortune.<br> | | The Door [[Gods]] are images of two {{Wiki|warriors}}, Shen Tu and Yu Lei, which are hung on gates or doors to {{Wiki|protect}} against [[evil spirits]] and misfortune.<br> | ||
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See Peach Charms for more [[information]] on the Door [[Gods]].<br> | See Peach Charms for more [[information]] on the Door [[Gods]].<br> | ||
Images of the Door [[Gods]] on the gate of a {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} house may be seen at The {{Wiki|Chinese}} House, Good [[Fortune]] and [[Harmony]] with [[Nature]]. <br> | Images of the Door [[Gods]] on the gate of a {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} house may be seen at The {{Wiki|Chinese}} House, Good [[Fortune]] and [[Harmony]] with [[Nature]]. <br> | ||
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| [[Dragon]]<br> | | [[Dragon]]<br> | ||
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| The [[dragon]] (long 龙) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | | The [[dragon]] (long 龙) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | ||
The [[dragon]] is believed to live in the [[mountains]] or in the seas and can fly into the [[heavens]].<br> | The [[dragon]] is believed to live in the [[mountains]] or in the seas and can fly into the [[heavens]].<br> | ||
Unlike the [[dragons]] of {{Wiki|Europe}}, the [[Chinese dragon]] [[symbolizes]] [[benevolence]], {{Wiki|prosperity}}, longevity and the renewal of [[life]].<br> | Unlike the [[dragons]] of {{Wiki|Europe}}, the [[Chinese dragon]] [[symbolizes]] [[benevolence]], {{Wiki|prosperity}}, longevity and the renewal of [[life]].<br> | ||
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{{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} believed the [[dragon]] brought [[rain]], good harvests and {{Wiki|fertility}}.<br> | {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} believed the [[dragon]] brought [[rain]], good harvests and {{Wiki|fertility}}.<br> | ||
The [[dragon]] is the [[symbol]] of the [[emperor]] when it has five claws.<br> | The [[dragon]] is the [[symbol]] of the [[emperor]] when it has five claws.<br> | ||
The [[dragon]] is [[yang]] and associated with the [[east]] and spring.<br> | The [[dragon]] is [[yang]] and associated with the [[east]] and spring.<br> | ||
Conjoined [[dragon]] and [[phoenix]] represent the union of a man and a woman.<br> | Conjoined [[dragon]] and [[phoenix]] represent the union of a man and a woman.<br> | ||
− | For a more detailed [[discussion]] of the [[dragon]] [[symbol]] please see yinyang and the [[five elements]] as the basis for star, [[moon]], cloud and [[dragon]] [[symbols]].<br> | + | For a more detailed [[discussion]] of the [[dragon]] [[symbol]] please see [[yinyang]] and the [[five elements]] as the basis for [[star]], [[moon]], cloud and [[dragon]] [[symbols]].<br> |
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[[Dragon]] charms with two [[dragons]] may be seen at: Open Work Charms and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | [[Dragon]] charms with two [[dragons]] may be seen at: Open Work Charms and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
Charms with a [[dragon]] and [[phoenix]] may be seen at: [[Marriage]] Charms and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | Charms with a [[dragon]] and [[phoenix]] may be seen at: [[Marriage]] Charms and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Dragonfly<br> | | Dragonfly<br> | ||
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| The dragonfly (qingting 蜻蜓) represents the {{Wiki|Confucian}} {{Wiki|ideal}} of pureness of [[character]] because its pronunciation is similar to the [[word]] for "[[pure]]" or "clear" (qing [[清]]).<br> | | The dragonfly (qingting 蜻蜓) represents the {{Wiki|Confucian}} {{Wiki|ideal}} of pureness of [[character]] because its pronunciation is similar to the [[word]] for "[[pure]]" or "clear" (qing [[清]]).<br> | ||
The dragonfly also [[symbolizes]] the season of summer.<br> | The dragonfly also [[symbolizes]] the season of summer.<br> | ||
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| [[Wikipedia:Mandarin Chinese|Mandarin]] ducks (yuanyang 鸳鸯 or xi 鸂) are believed to mate for [[life]] and, therefore, a pair of mandarin ducks [[symbolize]] fidelity, conjugal {{Wiki|affection}}, [[peace]] and {{Wiki|prosperity}}.<br> | | [[Wikipedia:Mandarin Chinese|Mandarin]] ducks (yuanyang 鸳鸯 or xi 鸂) are believed to mate for [[life]] and, therefore, a pair of mandarin ducks [[symbolize]] fidelity, conjugal {{Wiki|affection}}, [[peace]] and {{Wiki|prosperity}}.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| Dumplings (jiaozi)<br> | | Dumplings (jiaozi)<br> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
| {{Wiki|Chinese}} dumplings (with meat or vegetable stuffing) [[symbolize]] [[wealth]] or riches because they are boat-shaped and thus resemble the {{Wiki|silver}} ingots or sycee used in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]] as [[money]].<br> | | {{Wiki|Chinese}} dumplings (with meat or vegetable stuffing) [[symbolize]] [[wealth]] or riches because they are boat-shaped and thus resemble the {{Wiki|silver}} ingots or sycee used in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]] as [[money]].<br> | ||
The [[word]] dumpling (jiaozi 饺子) has the same pronunciation as the first paper [[money]] (jiaozi 交子) used in [[China]] which was during the early {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}}.<br> | The [[word]] dumpling (jiaozi 饺子) has the same pronunciation as the first paper [[money]] (jiaozi 交子) used in [[China]] which was during the early {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}}.<br> | ||
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{{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} placed actual coins in dumplings with the wish that whoever found the coins would enjoy {{Wiki|prosperity}} and [[good luck]].<br> | {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} placed actual coins in dumplings with the wish that whoever found the coins would enjoy {{Wiki|prosperity}} and [[good luck]].<br> | ||
− | Jiaozi has the hidden meaning of wishing for a large family because jiao (交) means "to have {{Wiki|sexual}} intercourse" and zi ([[子]]) means "son" or "child".<br> | + | |
+ | |||
+ | Jiaozi has the hidden meaning of wishing for a large [[family]] because jiao (交) means "to have {{Wiki|sexual}} intercourse" and zi ([[子]]) means "son" or "child".<br> | ||
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Dumplings stuffed with dates express a {{Wiki|hope}} for the "early" [[birth]] of sons.<br> | Dumplings stuffed with dates express a {{Wiki|hope}} for the "early" [[birth]] of sons.<br> | ||
Dumplings resemble the crescent [[moon]] and a wish for a year of abundance.<br> | Dumplings resemble the crescent [[moon]] and a wish for a year of abundance.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| {{Wiki|Eagle}} (Hawk)<br> | | {{Wiki|Eagle}} (Hawk)<br> | ||
| The {{Wiki|eagle}} or {{Wiki|hawk}} ([[ying]] 鹰) [[symbolizes]] a "[[hero]]" (yingxiong 英雄) because the pronunciation is the same.<br> | | The {{Wiki|eagle}} or {{Wiki|hawk}} ([[ying]] 鹰) [[symbolizes]] a "[[hero]]" (yingxiong 英雄) because the pronunciation is the same.<br> | ||
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| Egret<br> | | Egret<br> | ||
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| See entry for heron below.<br> | | See entry for heron below.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Eight (8)<br> | | Eight (8)<br> | ||
− | | The number eight (ba 八) is the most [[auspicious]] number because its pronunciation, particularly in southern {{Wiki|dialects}}, is very similar to "prosper" or "[[wealth]]" (fa cai 发财).<br> | + | | The number eight (ba [[八]]) is the most [[auspicious]] number because its pronunciation, particularly in southern {{Wiki|dialects}}, is very similar to "prosper" or "[[wealth]]" (fa cai 发财).<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| [[Eight Immortals]]<br> | | [[Eight Immortals]]<br> | ||
− | | The [[Eight Immortals]] (八仙) are eight {{Wiki|daoists}} who have [[attained]] [[immortality]] and include:<br> | + | | The [[Eight Immortals]] ([[八仙]]) are eight {{Wiki|daoists}} who have [[attained]] [[immortality]] and include:<br> |
1) Han Zhongli (汉钟离), also known as Zhongli Quan (锺离权), was a {{Wiki|Han Dynasty}} general and is usually shown carrying a feather fan which he uses to revive the [[dead]].<br><br> | 1) Han Zhongli (汉钟离), also known as Zhongli Quan (锺离权), was a {{Wiki|Han Dynasty}} general and is usually shown carrying a feather fan which he uses to revive the [[dead]].<br><br> | ||
2) Lu Dongbin (吕 洞宾), known for his drinking and fighting {{Wiki|abilities}}, carries a demon-slaying sword. He also carries a fly whisk which he uses to walk on clouds, fly to [[heaven]], and sweep away [[ignorance]].<br><br> | 2) Lu Dongbin (吕 洞宾), known for his drinking and fighting {{Wiki|abilities}}, carries a demon-slaying sword. He also carries a fly whisk which he uses to walk on clouds, fly to [[heaven]], and sweep away [[ignorance]].<br><br> | ||
− | 3) Zhang Guolao (张果老) rides a {{Wiki|donkey}}, sometimes seated backwards, and carries a tube-shaped {{Wiki|bamboo}} musical instrument called a yugu (鱼鼓).<br><br> | + | 3) Zhang [[Guolao]] (张果老) rides a {{Wiki|donkey}}, sometimes seated backwards, and carries a tube-shaped {{Wiki|bamboo}} musical instrument called a yugu (鱼鼓).<br><br> |
− | 4) Li Tieguai (李 铁拐), known as "Li with the {{Wiki|iron}} crutch", is a crippled {{Wiki|beggar}} who carries a {{Wiki|gourd}} filled with a [[magic]] elixir.<br><br> | + | 4) Li Tieguai (李 铁拐), known as "Li with the {{Wiki|iron}} crutch", is a {{Wiki|crippled}} {{Wiki|beggar}} who carries a {{Wiki|gourd}} filled with a [[magic]] elixir.<br><br> |
− | 5) He Xiangu (何仙姑) is the only {{Wiki|female}} in the group and usually carries a kitchen ladle, [[lotus]], peach or fly whisk. She is known for her filial [[devotion]], ability to resolve domestic disputes and is seen as the {{Wiki|patron}} of household management.<br><br> | + | 5) He Xiangu (何仙姑) is the only {{Wiki|female}} in the group and usually carries a kitchen ladle, [[lotus]], peach or fly whisk. She is known for her filial [[devotion]], ability to resolve domestic [[disputes]] and is seen as the {{Wiki|patron}} of household {{Wiki|management}}.<br><br> |
− | 6) Han Xiangzi (韩湘子) carries a flute and can predict the {{Wiki|future}} and make {{Wiki|fruits}} and [[flowers]] grow out of season. He represents youth and is seen as the {{Wiki|patron}} of fortune-tellers.<br><br> | + | 6) Han Xiangzi (韩湘子) carries a {{Wiki|flute}} and can predict the {{Wiki|future}} and make {{Wiki|fruits}} and [[flowers]] grow out of season. He represents youth and is seen as the {{Wiki|patron}} of fortune-tellers.<br><br> |
7) Cao Guojiu (曹国舅) carries a [[ruyi]] {{Wiki|sceptre}} or castanets which are two long "clappers" [[thought]] to [[symbolize]] the {{Wiki|ceremonial}} tables required for admission to the {{Wiki|imperial court}}. How he became an [[immortal]] is described in the {{Wiki|Ming Dynasty}} {{Wiki|novel}} "[[Journey to the West]]".<br><br> | 7) Cao Guojiu (曹国舅) carries a [[ruyi]] {{Wiki|sceptre}} or castanets which are two long "clappers" [[thought]] to [[symbolize]] the {{Wiki|ceremonial}} tables required for admission to the {{Wiki|imperial court}}. How he became an [[immortal]] is described in the {{Wiki|Ming Dynasty}} {{Wiki|novel}} "[[Journey to the West]]".<br><br> | ||
− | 8) Lan Caihe (蓝采和), depicted as a {{Wiki|male}} or {{Wiki|female}} or {{Wiki|hermaphrodite}}, usually holds a fruit/flower basket, a [[bowl]] or a flute and whose story is also told in "[[Journey to the West]]".<br> | + | 8) Lan Caihe (蓝采和), depicted as a {{Wiki|male}} or {{Wiki|female}} or {{Wiki|hermaphrodite}}, usually holds a fruit/flower basket, a [[bowl]] or a {{Wiki|flute}} and whose story is also told in "[[Journey to the West]]".<br> |
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| Eight [[Treasures]]<br> | | Eight [[Treasures]]<br> | ||
− | | The "Eight [[Treasures]]" (babao 八宝), also known as the "Eight [[Precious]] Things" and the "Eight [[Auspicious]] [[Treasures]]", may consist of eight ordinary [[symbols]], the eight [[precious]] {{Wiki|organs}} of the [[Buddha's]] [[body]], the [[eight auspicious signs]], or the various {{Wiki|emblems}} of the eight [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] [[Immortals]]. The most commonly seen members of the Eight [[Treasures]] include the coin, [[ruyi]] {{Wiki|sceptre}}, coral, [[chime]] stone, lozenge, rhinoceros horn, {{Wiki|silver}} ingot and the flaming {{Wiki|pearl}}.<br> | + | | The "Eight [[Treasures]]" (babao 八宝), also known as the "Eight [[Precious]] Things" and the "Eight [[Auspicious]] [[Treasures]]", may consist of eight ordinary [[symbols]], the eight [[precious]] {{Wiki|organs}} of the [[Buddha's]] [[body]], the [[eight auspicious signs]], or the various {{Wiki|emblems}} of the eight [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] [[Immortals]]. The most commonly seen members of the Eight [[Treasures]] include the coin, [[ruyi]] {{Wiki|sceptre}}, [[coral]], [[chime]] stone, lozenge, [[rhinoceros]] horn, {{Wiki|silver}} ingot and the flaming {{Wiki|pearl}}.<br> |
In [[Buddhism]], the Eight [[Treasures]] ([[Eight Auspicious Symbols]]) include the [[lotus]] (purity/enlightenment), [[Wheel of the Dharma]] ([[knowledge]]), [[treasure vase]] ([[wealth]]), [[conch shell]] ([[Buddha's]] [[thoughts]]), [[victory banner]] ([[Buddha's teachings]] conquer all), [[endless knot]] ([[harmony]]), [[parasol]] ([[protection]]) and {{Wiki|fish}} pair ([[happiness]] in [[marriage]]).<br> | In [[Buddhism]], the Eight [[Treasures]] ([[Eight Auspicious Symbols]]) include the [[lotus]] (purity/enlightenment), [[Wheel of the Dharma]] ([[knowledge]]), [[treasure vase]] ([[wealth]]), [[conch shell]] ([[Buddha's]] [[thoughts]]), [[victory banner]] ([[Buddha's teachings]] conquer all), [[endless knot]] ([[harmony]]), [[parasol]] ([[protection]]) and {{Wiki|fish}} pair ([[happiness]] in [[marriage]]).<br> | ||
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| [[Elephant]]<br> | | [[Elephant]]<br> | ||
| The [[elephant]] is considered an [[auspicious]] [[animal]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for "[[elephant]]" ([[xiang]] 象) has the same pronunciation as the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "[[auspicious]]" or "[[lucky]]" ([[xiang]] 祥).<br> | | The [[elephant]] is considered an [[auspicious]] [[animal]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for "[[elephant]]" ([[xiang]] 象) has the same pronunciation as the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "[[auspicious]]" or "[[lucky]]" ([[xiang]] 祥).<br> | ||
− | The [[elephant]] is sometimes shown carrying a "[[treasure]]" vase (bao ping 宝瓶) on its back. Since the [[word]] "vase" (ping 瓶) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "[[peace]]" (pingan 平 安), the implied meaning is "may you have '[[good luck]]' ([[elephant]]) and '[[peace]]' (vase)".<br> | + | The [[elephant]] is sometimes shown carrying a "[[treasure]]" [[vase]] (bao ping 宝瓶) on its back. Since the [[word]] "[[vase]]" (ping 瓶) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "[[peace]]" (pingan 平 安), the implied meaning is "may you have '[[good luck]]' ([[elephant]]) and '[[peace]]' ([[vase]])".<br> |
− | "[[Elephant]] Chess" (xiangqi 象棋), also known as "{{Wiki|Chinese}} Chess", is an {{Wiki|ancient}} and popular board game. ({{Wiki|Ancient}} "[[elephant]] {{Wiki|chess}}" pieces may be seen at "Old {{Wiki|Chinese}} Chess Pieces".)<br> | + | "[[Elephant]] [[Chess]]" (xiangqi 象棋), also known as "{{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Chess]]", is an {{Wiki|ancient}} and popular board game. ({{Wiki|Ancient}} "[[elephant]] {{Wiki|chess}}" pieces may be seen at "Old {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Chess]] Pieces".)<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| {{Wiki|Fish}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Fish}}<br> | ||
| The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for {{Wiki|fish}} (yu 鱼) is pronounced the same as the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for "abundance" or "surplus" (yu 余). The {{Wiki|fish}} [[symbol]] is, therefore, frequently associated with other [[symbols]] and {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters to [[symbolize]] the wish for "more" in the [[sense]] of "more" [[good luck]], good [[fortune]], long [[life]] and children. (Please see images at {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|Fish}} Charms and {{Wiki|Chinese}} Open Work Charms.)<br> | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for {{Wiki|fish}} (yu 鱼) is pronounced the same as the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for "abundance" or "surplus" (yu 余). The {{Wiki|fish}} [[symbol]] is, therefore, frequently associated with other [[symbols]] and {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters to [[symbolize]] the wish for "more" in the [[sense]] of "more" [[good luck]], good [[fortune]], long [[life]] and children. (Please see images at {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|Fish}} Charms and {{Wiki|Chinese}} Open Work Charms.)<br> | ||
− | As an example, to express the wish for "having more [[happiness]] year after year" a charm may use the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] 年 ([[nian]]) for year, and also include a picture of a {{Wiki|fish}}, a [[lotus]] and a magpie. The {{Wiki|fish}} (yu 鱼) represents "more" (yu 余). The [[character]] 莲 for [[lotus]] and the [[character]] 连 meaning "in succession or one after another", as in expressing year after year, are both pronounced lian . The magpie (xi que 喜鹊) is pronounced the same as [[happiness]] . So the {{Wiki|fish}}, [[lotus]], magpie and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] 年 (year) together would have the implied meaning of "more" "[[happiness]]" "year after year".<br> | + | As an example, to express the wish for "having more [[happiness]] year after year" a charm may use the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] [[年]] ([[nian]]) for year, and also include a picture of a {{Wiki|fish}}, a [[lotus]] and a magpie. The {{Wiki|fish}} (yu 鱼) represents "more" (yu 余). The [[character]] 莲 for [[lotus]] and the [[character]] 连 meaning "in succession or one after another", as in expressing year after year, are both pronounced [[lian]] . The magpie (xi que 喜鹊) is pronounced the same as [[happiness]] . So the {{Wiki|fish}}, [[lotus]], magpie and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] [[年]] (year) together would have the implied meaning of "more" "[[happiness]]" "year after year".<br> |
Because of its {{Wiki|reproductive}} {{Wiki|abilities}}, the {{Wiki|fish}} also represents {{Wiki|fertility}} in [[marriage]].<br> | Because of its {{Wiki|reproductive}} {{Wiki|abilities}}, the {{Wiki|fish}} also represents {{Wiki|fertility}} in [[marriage]].<br> | ||
Two {{Wiki|fish}}, or a pair of {{Wiki|fish}} (shuang yu 双鱼), represent [[happiness]] in [[marriage]].<br> | Two {{Wiki|fish}}, or a pair of {{Wiki|fish}} (shuang yu 双鱼), represent [[happiness]] in [[marriage]].<br> | ||
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| Five [[Blessings]] (Happinesses, Good Fortunes)<br> | | Five [[Blessings]] (Happinesses, Good Fortunes)<br> | ||
− | | According to the {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} classic the "[[Book]] of History" (shujing 书经 or [[shangshu]] 尚书), also known as the "Classic of History", there are "Five [[Blessings]]" (wufu 五福), also known as the "Five Happinesses" or "Five Good Fortunes", which refer to longevity (shou 寿), [[wealth]] (fu 富), health and composure (kangning 康宁), [[virtue]] (xiu hao de 修好德), and the [[desire]] to [[die]] a natural [[death]] in [[old age]] (lao [[zhong]] [[ming]] 考 终命).<br> | + | | According to the {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} classic the "[[Book]] of History" (shujing 书经 or [[shangshu]] 尚书), also known as the "Classic of History", there are "Five [[Blessings]]" (wufu 五福), also known as the "Five Happinesses" or "Five Good Fortunes", which refer to longevity (shou 寿), [[wealth]] ([[fu]] 富), [[health]] and composure (kangning 康宁), [[virtue]] (xiu hao de 修好德), and the [[desire]] to [[die]] a natural [[death]] in [[old age]] (lao [[zhong]] [[ming]] 考 终命).<br> |
− | Popular among the {{Wiki|Chinese people}} is another set of "five [[blessings]]" which consists of good [[fortune]] (fu 福), government official salary (lu 禄), longevity (shou 寿), [[joy]] (xi [[喜]]) and valuables or property (cai 财).<br> | + | Popular among the {{Wiki|Chinese people}} is another set of "five [[blessings]]" which consists of good [[fortune]] ([[fu]] [[福]]), government official salary (lu 禄), longevity (shou 寿), [[joy]] (xi [[喜]]) and valuables or property (cai 财).<br> |
The "Five [[Blessings]]" can be represented by five bats as seen at Gourd Charms, Open Work Charms and {{Wiki|Chinese}} House.<br> | The "Five [[Blessings]]" can be represented by five bats as seen at Gourd Charms, Open Work Charms and {{Wiki|Chinese}} House.<br> | ||
A charm with an inscription referring to the "Five [[Blessings]]" may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | A charm with an inscription referring to the "Five [[Blessings]]" may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
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| [[Five Poisons]]<br> | | [[Five Poisons]]<br> | ||
| The [[five poisons]] (五毒), also known as the "Five Poisonous Creatures", refer to five {{Wiki|poisonous}} [[animals]] which usually include the {{Wiki|snake}}, {{Wiki|scorpion}}, centipede, toad and spider.<br> | | The [[five poisons]] (五毒), also known as the "Five Poisonous Creatures", refer to five {{Wiki|poisonous}} [[animals]] which usually include the {{Wiki|snake}}, {{Wiki|scorpion}}, centipede, toad and spider.<br> | ||
− | Sometimes, the lizard replaces the spider.<br> | + | Sometimes, the {{Wiki|lizard}} replaces the spider.<br> |
The "three-legged toad" is frequently included as one of the five.<br> | The "three-legged toad" is frequently included as one of the five.<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe the [[five poisons]] counteract [[pernicious]] [[influences]] by combating [[poison]] with [[poison]].<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} believe the [[five poisons]] counteract [[pernicious]] [[influences]] by combating [[poison]] with [[poison]].<br> | ||
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| Four [[Blessings]] <br> | | Four [[Blessings]] <br> | ||
− | | The "four [[blessings]]" (si fu 四福) are [[happiness]] (xi [[喜]]), salary of a high official (lu 禄), longevity (shou 寿), and [[good luck]] (good [[fortune]]) (fu 福).<br> | + | | The "four [[blessings]]" (si [[fu]] 四福) are [[happiness]] (xi [[喜]]), salary of a high official (lu 禄), longevity (shou 寿), and [[good luck]] (good [[fortune]]) ([[fu]] [[福]]).<br> |
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| Four [[Divine]] Creatures<br> | | Four [[Divine]] Creatures<br> | ||
− | | The Four [[Divine]] Creatures, also known as the Four Heraldic [[Animals]], Four Directional [[Animals]], and [[Four Symbols]] (si [[xiang]] 四象), [[symbolize]] the four [[directions]] and an associated season as follows: Vermillion (Red) Bird ([[zhuque]] [[朱雀]]) [[south]] and summer; [[White Tiger]] ([[baihu]] [[白虎]]) [[west]] and autumn; [[Azure Dragon]] (qinglong 青龙) [[east]] and spring; black {{Wiki|tortoise}} coiled around by a {{Wiki|snake}} known as the {{Wiki|Black Tortoise}} (Black [[Warrior]]) ([[xuanwu]] [[玄武]]) [[north]] and winter. (See also entries for "{{Wiki|Tortoise}}" and "{{Wiki|Snake}}" below)<br> | + | | The Four [[Divine]] Creatures, also known as the Four Heraldic [[Animals]], Four Directional [[Animals]], and [[Four Symbols]] (si [[xiang]] 四象), [[symbolize]] the four [[directions]] and an associated season as follows: Vermillion ([[Red]]) {{Wiki|Bird}} ([[zhuque]] [[朱雀]]) [[south]] and summer; [[White Tiger]] ([[baihu]] [[白虎]]) [[west]] and autumn; [[Azure Dragon]] (qinglong 青龙) [[east]] and spring; black {{Wiki|tortoise}} coiled around by a {{Wiki|snake}} known as the {{Wiki|Black Tortoise}} (Black [[Warrior]]) ([[xuanwu]] [[玄武]]) [[north]] and winter. (See also entries for "{{Wiki|Tortoise}}" and "{{Wiki|Snake}}" below)<br> |
A coin displaying the four [[directions]] and the 28 mansions associated with the Four [[Divine]] Creatures may be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|Astronomy}} Coins.<br> | A coin displaying the four [[directions]] and the 28 mansions associated with the Four [[Divine]] Creatures may be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|Astronomy}} Coins.<br> | ||
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| Four Happinesses<br> | | Four Happinesses<br> | ||
− | | The "Four Happinesses" (si fu 四蝠) comes from a poem by Hong Mai (洪迈 1123-1202) of the {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}}:<br> | + | | The "Four Happinesses" (si [[fu]] 四蝠) comes from a poem by Hong Mai (洪迈 1123-1202) of the {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}}:<br> |
1) "Sweet [[rain]] after a long drought" (<em>jiu han feng gan yu</em> 久旱逢甘雨)<br> | 1) "Sweet [[rain]] after a long drought" (<em>jiu han feng gan yu</em> 久旱逢甘雨)<br> | ||
2) "Meeting an old [[friend]] in a faraway place" (<em>ta [[xiang]] yu gu zhi</em> 他乡遇故知)<br> | 2) "Meeting an old [[friend]] in a faraway place" (<em>ta [[xiang]] yu gu zhi</em> 他乡遇故知)<br> | ||
3) "The [[wedding]] night" (literally: "the night of lighting a candle in the bridal chamber" (<em>dong fang hua zhu ye</em> 洞房花烛夜)<br> | 3) "The [[wedding]] night" (literally: "the night of lighting a candle in the bridal chamber" (<em>dong fang hua zhu ye</em> 洞房花烛夜)<br> | ||
− | 4) "Having one's [[name]] on the list of successful candidates of the {{Wiki|imperial}} examination" (<em>jin bang ti [[ming]] shi</em> 金榜题名时)<br> | + | 4) "Having one's [[name]] on the list of successful candidates of the {{Wiki|imperial}} {{Wiki|examination}}" (<em>jin bang ti [[ming]] shi</em> 金榜题名时)<br> |
The "Four Happinesses" is the theme of this old {{Wiki|Chinese}} carved wooden window.<br> | The "Four Happinesses" is the theme of this old {{Wiki|Chinese}} carved wooden window.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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See also entry for toad.<br> | See also entry for toad.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Fu Lu Shou<br> | + | | [[Fu]] Lu Shou<br> |
− | | Fu Lu Shou refers to the three {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[deities]] of the [[God]] of [[Happiness]] (Fu), the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu), and the [[God]] of Longevity (Shou).<br> | + | | [[Fu]] Lu Shou refers to the three {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[deities]] of the [[God]] of [[Happiness]] ([[Fu]]), the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu), and the [[God]] of Longevity (Shou).<br> |
− | A "Fu Lu Shou" charm may be seen at Lock Charms.<br> | + | A "[[Fu]] Lu Shou" charm may be seen at Lock Charms.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Fungus ([[Lingzhi]]) (Fungus of [[Immortality]])<br> | | Fungus ([[Lingzhi]]) (Fungus of [[Immortality]])<br> | ||
− | | [[Lingzhi]] (灵芝), also known as the glossy ganoderma, is the [[sacred]] fungus of [[immortality]] that grows on the trunks or [[roots]] of [[trees]] including the pine.<br> | + | | [[Lingzhi]] (灵芝), also known as the glossy ganoderma, is the [[sacred]] fungus of [[immortality]] that grows on the trunks or [[roots]] of [[trees]] [[including]] the pine.<br> |
The [[lingzhi]] does not [[decay]] like other fungus but instead becomes woody and thus can survive for a long [[time]]. For this [[reason]], it has become associated with longevity.<br> | The [[lingzhi]] does not [[decay]] like other fungus but instead becomes woody and thus can survive for a long [[time]]. For this [[reason]], it has become associated with longevity.<br> | ||
It was also believed to grow on the "Three Islands of the [[Immortals]]" where [[immortals]] lived.<br> | It was also believed to grow on the "Three Islands of the [[Immortals]]" where [[immortals]] lived.<br> | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| {{Wiki|Goat}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Goat}}<br> | ||
− | | The {{Wiki|goat}} is a reference to an {{Wiki|ancient}} [[myth]], discussed at Five {{Wiki|Goat}} Coin, concerning a great famine in [[Guangzhou]] (Canton), [[Guangdong]] Province.<br> | + | | The {{Wiki|goat}} is a reference to an {{Wiki|ancient}} [[myth]], discussed at Five {{Wiki|Goat}} Coin, concerning a great famine in [[Guangzhou]] ([[Canton]]), [[Guangdong]] Province.<br> |
Please also see entry for sheep below. <br> | Please also see entry for sheep below. <br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | [[God]] of Examinations (Star of {{Wiki|Literature}})<br> | + | | [[God]] of Examinations ([[Star]] of {{Wiki|Literature}})<br> |
− | | Kuixing (魁星) is known as the [[God]] of Examinations or the Star of {{Wiki|Literature}}. He was considered to have been influential in helping candidates pass the {{Wiki|imperial}} civil service examinations.<br> | + | | Kuixing (魁星) is known as the [[God]] of Examinations or the [[Star]] of {{Wiki|Literature}}. He was considered to have been influential in helping candidates pass the {{Wiki|imperial}} civil service examinations.<br> |
He is depicted as an ugly man (sometimes as a {{Wiki|dwarf}}) with short horns, and holding a [[writing]] brush in his right hand and a scholar's hat (or peck [[measure]]) in his left. He is usually [[standing]] on the head of a large {{Wiki|fish}} or a [[mythical]] [[turtle]] known as ao (鳌).<br> | He is depicted as an ugly man (sometimes as a {{Wiki|dwarf}}) with short horns, and holding a [[writing]] brush in his right hand and a scholar's hat (or peck [[measure]]) in his left. He is usually [[standing]] on the head of a large {{Wiki|fish}} or a [[mythical]] [[turtle]] known as ao (鳌).<br> | ||
The horns on his head represent [[success]] by alluding to the analogy of the carp {{Wiki|fish}} jumping over the [[mythical]] [[Dragon]] Gate and turning into a [[dragon]].<br> | The horns on his head represent [[success]] by alluding to the analogy of the carp {{Wiki|fish}} jumping over the [[mythical]] [[Dragon]] Gate and turning into a [[dragon]].<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | [[God]] of [[Happiness]] (Fu), [[God]] of [[Luck]], [[God]] of Good [[Fortune]] and [[Blessings]]<br> | + | | [[God]] of [[Happiness]] ([[Fu]]), [[God]] of [[Luck]], [[God]] of Good [[Fortune]] and [[Blessings]]<br> |
− | | Fu (福), which means [[good luck]], [[fortune]], [[blessings]] and [[happiness]], refers to the "[[God]] of [[Happiness]]" who was originally a [[heavenly]] star known as the "[[Lucky]] Star" (fuxing 福星). He is also known as the "[[God]] of Good [[Fortune]] and [[Blessings]]" and as the "[[God]] of [[Luck]]".<br> | + | | [[Fu]] ([[福]]), which means [[good luck]], [[fortune]], [[blessings]] and [[happiness]], refers to the "[[God]] of [[Happiness]]" who was originally a [[heavenly]] [[star]] known as the "[[Lucky]] [[Star]]" (fuxing 福星). He is also known as the "[[God]] of Good [[Fortune]] and [[Blessings]]" and as the "[[God]] of [[Luck]]".<br> |
Early [[Taoism]] ([[Daoism]]) had three [[gods]] known as the "Three Officials" (sanguan 三官) or "Three [[Immortals]]". One was named the "[[Heavenly]] Official who grants [[fortune]]" tianguancifu (天官赐福) and it was he who later became better known as the "[[God]] of [[Happiness]]". <br> | Early [[Taoism]] ([[Daoism]]) had three [[gods]] known as the "Three Officials" (sanguan 三官) or "Three [[Immortals]]". One was named the "[[Heavenly]] Official who grants [[fortune]]" tianguancifu (天官赐福) and it was he who later became better known as the "[[God]] of [[Happiness]]". <br> | ||
− | A "Fu Lu Shou" and "Three [[Immortals]]" charm is at {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} Lock Charms.<br> | + | A "[[Fu]] Lu Shou" and "Three [[Immortals]]" charm is at {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} Lock Charms.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| [[God]] of Longevity (Shou)<br> | | [[God]] of Longevity (Shou)<br> | ||
− | | Shou (寿), also referred to as Shou Lao (寿老), the "Old [[Immortal]] of the {{Wiki|South Pole}}" (nanjixianweng 南极仙翁), and the "Longevity Star" (shouxing 寿星), is the [[God]] of Longevity and is usually shown as a smiling old gentleman with a prominent {{Wiki|forehead}} who holds a walking stick and carries a peach ([[tao]] 桃). As his [[name]] implies, Shou [[symbolizes]] a long [[life]].<br> | + | | Shou (寿), also referred to as Shou Lao (寿老), the "Old [[Immortal]] of the {{Wiki|South Pole}}" (nanjixianweng 南极仙翁), and the "Longevity [[Star]]" (shouxing 寿星), is the [[God]] of Longevity and is usually shown as a smiling old gentleman with a prominent {{Wiki|forehead}} who holds a walking stick and carries a peach ([[tao]] 桃). As his [[name]] implies, Shou [[symbolizes]] a long [[life]].<br> |
− | Longevity was important to Confucians because they believed that [[wisdom]] came with age.<br> | + | Longevity was important to [[Confucians]] because they believed that [[wisdom]] came with age.<br> |
Longevity was important to {{Wiki|Taoists}} ({{Wiki|Daoists}}) because of their quest for [[immortality]].<br> | Longevity was important to {{Wiki|Taoists}} ({{Wiki|Daoists}}) because of their quest for [[immortality]].<br> | ||
− | Shou is one of the "Three Officials" (sanguan 三官) along with the [[God]] of [[Happiness]] (Fu) and the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu).<br> | + | Shou is one of the "Three Officials" (sanguan 三官) along with the [[God]] of [[Happiness]] ([[Fu]]) and the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu).<br> |
See also Lock Charms.<br> | See also Lock Charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu), [[God]] of Rank and Emolument <br> | | [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu), [[God]] of Rank and Emolument <br> | ||
− | | Lu (禄), also known as the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}}, the [[God]] of Rank and Emolument, and the [[God]] of High Ranking Office, is usually shown holding a [[ruyi]] (如 [[意]]) which was originally a short sword with a sword-guard used for self-defense or gesturing but now [[symbolizes]] good wishes ("may things go as you wish") and {{Wiki|prosperity}}. He is a member of the Three Officials, also known as the Three [[Immortals]].<br> | + | | Lu (禄), also known as the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}}, the [[God]] of Rank and Emolument, and the [[God]] of High Ranking Office, is usually shown holding a [[ruyi]] (如 [[意]]) which was originally a short sword with a sword-guard used for [[self-defense]] or gesturing but now [[symbolizes]] good wishes ("may things go as you wish") and {{Wiki|prosperity}}. He is a member of the Three Officials, also known as the Three [[Immortals]].<br> |
− | He was originally a [[heavenly]] star known as the "{{Wiki|Prosperity}} Star" (luxing 禄星) and was believed to govern a person's [[success]] in a career.<br> | + | He was originally a [[heavenly]] [[star]] known as the "{{Wiki|Prosperity}} [[Star]]" (luxing 禄星) and was believed to govern a person's [[success]] in a career.<br> |
The [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} is closely associated with the [[auspicious]] saying "may office and salary be bestowed upon you" (加官 进禄). Please see the four [[character]] charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions. <br> | The [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} is closely associated with the [[auspicious]] saying "may office and salary be bestowed upon you" (加官 进禄). Please see the four [[character]] charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions. <br> | ||
See also Lock Charms. | See also Lock Charms. | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[God]] of [[Thunder]] (Lei [[Gong]])<br> | | [[God]] of [[Thunder]] (Lei [[Gong]])<br> | ||
− | | The [[God]] of [[Thunder]] (Lei Shen 雷神), also known as the Duke of [[Thunder]] (Lei [[Gong]] 雷 公), is the [[Daoist]] [[god]] responsible for punishing [[humans]] who have committed certain crimes and [[evil spirits]] which have harmed [[humans]].<br> | + | | The [[God]] of [[Thunder]] (Lei Shen 雷神), also known as the Duke of [[Thunder]] (Lei [[Gong]] 雷 [[公]]), is the [[Daoist]] [[god]] responsible for punishing [[humans]] who have committed certain crimes and [[evil spirits]] which have harmed [[humans]].<br> |
He uses a [[drum]] to create [[thunder]].<br> | He uses a [[drum]] to create [[thunder]].<br> | ||
Lei [[Gong]] is portrayed as being half {{Wiki|eagle}}, with wings and a beak, and half [[human]].<br> | Lei [[Gong]] is portrayed as being half {{Wiki|eagle}}, with wings and a beak, and half [[human]].<br> | ||
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| [[Guan]] Di (关帝), also known as [[Guan]] [[Gong]] (关公), is the [[Daoist]] [[God of War]].<br> | | [[Guan]] Di (关帝), also known as [[Guan]] [[Gong]] (关公), is the [[Daoist]] [[God of War]].<br> | ||
His real [[name]] was [[Guan Yu]] (关羽).<br> | His real [[name]] was [[Guan Yu]] (关羽).<br> | ||
− | He was originally a beancurd seller who joined forces with Liu Bei (刘备) and became immortalized as a {{Wiki|military}} [[hero]] during the period of the {{Wiki|Three Kingdoms}} (220-280 AD).<br> | + | He was originally a beancurd seller who joined forces with [[Liu]] Bei (刘备) and became immortalized as a {{Wiki|military}} [[hero]] during the period of the {{Wiki|Three Kingdoms}} (220-280 AD).<br> |
The [[God of War]] fights [[evil]] and is usually shown carrying a large broadsword.<br> | The [[God of War]] fights [[evil]] and is usually shown carrying a large broadsword.<br> | ||
− | A Qing (Ch'ing) Dynasty coin is believed to provide [[protection]] from [[evil]] because one of the {{Wiki|Manchu}} characters in its inscription resembles the broadsword of the [[God of War]].<br> | + | A Qing (Ch'ing) [[Dynasty]] coin is believed to provide [[protection]] from [[evil]] because one of the {{Wiki|Manchu}} characters in its inscription resembles the broadsword of the [[God of War]].<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| [[God of Wealth]] (Cai Shen)<br> | | [[God of Wealth]] (Cai Shen)<br> | ||
− | | The [[God of Wealth]] (caishen 财神) is a very popular {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[deity]] whose presence is [[thought]] to ensure [[wealth]] and [[success]]. He is depicted with a long beard and wearing either an official's gown or {{Wiki|military}} dress. He is usually shown holding or being surrounded by [[symbols]] of [[wealth]] such as coins, ingots, coral, etc. He is often shown holding a sword in his right hand raised above his head and wearing a {{Wiki|distinctive}} hat with {{Wiki|ear}} flaps. He is sometimes depicted as riding a black [[tiger]].<br> | + | | The [[God of Wealth]] (caishen 财神) is a very popular {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[deity]] whose presence is [[thought]] to ensure [[wealth]] and [[success]]. He is depicted with a long beard and wearing either an official's gown or {{Wiki|military}} dress. He is usually shown holding or being surrounded by [[symbols]] of [[wealth]] such as coins, ingots, [[coral]], etc. He is often shown holding a sword in his right hand raised above his head and wearing a {{Wiki|distinctive}} hat with {{Wiki|ear}} flaps. He is sometimes depicted as riding a black [[tiger]].<br> |
A {{Wiki|bamboo}} tally with an image of Cai Shen may be seen at {{Wiki|Bamboo}} Tallies.<br> | A {{Wiki|bamboo}} tally with an image of Cai Shen may be seen at {{Wiki|Bamboo}} Tallies.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| Goldfish<br> | | Goldfish<br> | ||
| The goldfish (jinyu 金鱼) is a [[symbol]] for [[wealth]] because its first [[character]] (jin [[金]]) means "{{Wiki|gold}}" and its second [[character]] (yu) {{Wiki|sounds}} like [[jade]] (yu 玉).<br> | | The goldfish (jinyu 金鱼) is a [[symbol]] for [[wealth]] because its first [[character]] (jin [[金]]) means "{{Wiki|gold}}" and its second [[character]] (yu) {{Wiki|sounds}} like [[jade]] (yu 玉).<br> | ||
− | Goldfish also [[symbolize]] abundant [[wealth]] because the first [[character]] (jin) means {{Wiki|gold}} and the second [[character]] (yu) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "abundance" or "surplus" (yu 余).<br> | + | Goldfish also [[symbolize]] [[abundant]] [[wealth]] because the first [[character]] (jin) means {{Wiki|gold}} and the second [[character]] (yu) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "abundance" or "surplus" (yu 余).<br> |
See entry for {{Wiki|fish}} above.<br> | See entry for {{Wiki|fish}} above.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Gourd<br> | | Gourd<br> | ||
| The {{Wiki|gourd}} is popular as a charm [[symbol]] to ward off [[evil spirits]] and {{Wiki|disease}} because its first [[character]] (hulu 葫芦) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] to "{{Wiki|protect}}" or "guard" (hu 护) and also the [[word]] for "[[blessing]]" (hu 祜).<br> | | The {{Wiki|gourd}} is popular as a charm [[symbol]] to ward off [[evil spirits]] and {{Wiki|disease}} because its first [[character]] (hulu 葫芦) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] to "{{Wiki|protect}}" or "guard" (hu 护) and also the [[word]] for "[[blessing]]" (hu 祜).<br> | ||
− | In some {{Wiki|dialects}}, the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for {{Wiki|gourd}} (hulu 葫 芦) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as fulu (福 禄) which means "[[happiness]] and rank (as in [[attaining]] a high government office)".<br> | + | In some {{Wiki|dialects}}, the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for {{Wiki|gourd}} (hulu 葫 芦) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as fulu ([[福]] 禄) which means "[[happiness]] and rank (as in [[attaining]] a high government office)".<br> |
− | Trailing {{Wiki|gourd}} vines are described in {{Wiki|Chinese}} as man (蔓). This [[character]] can also be pronounced as wan and has the exact same pronunciation and meaning as 万 which means "10,000". Because the {{Wiki|gourd}} contains many [[seeds]], the {{Wiki|Chinese}} associate the {{Wiki|gourd}} with "10,000 children". In {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]], [[parents]] hoped for many sons and grandsons so the {{Wiki|gourd}} became an important [[symbol]] for a family with many children.<br> | + | Trailing {{Wiki|gourd}} vines are described in {{Wiki|Chinese}} as man (蔓). This [[character]] can also be pronounced as wan and has the exact same pronunciation and meaning as 万 which means "10,000". Because the {{Wiki|gourd}} contains many [[seeds]], the {{Wiki|Chinese}} associate the {{Wiki|gourd}} with "10,000 children". In {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]], [[parents]] hoped for many sons and grandsons so the {{Wiki|gourd}} became an important [[symbol]] for a [[family]] with many children.<br> |
Additional [[information]] is provided at {{Wiki|gourd}} charms.<br> | Additional [[information]] is provided at {{Wiki|gourd}} charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Halberd<br> | | Halberd<br> | ||
− | | The halberd (ji 戟) is an {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} infantry weapon consisting of a shaft with a spear and/or crescent-shaped blade on one end.<br> | + | | The halberd (ji 戟) is an {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} infantry weapon consisting of a shaft with a {{Wiki|spear}} and/or crescent-shaped blade on one end.<br> |
− | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "halberd" (ji 戟) and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "[[lucky]]" or "[[auspicious]]" (吉) are both pronounced ji. A halberd is a [[visual]] pun or rebus for "[[lucky]]" as can be see on an old seal script charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | + | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "halberd" (ji 戟) and the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "[[lucky]]" or "[[auspicious]]" (吉) are both pronounced ji. A halberd is a [[visual]] pun or rebus for "[[lucky]]" as can be see on an old {{Wiki|seal}} [[script]] charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> |
The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "halberd" (ji 戟) also has the same pronunciation, and thus is a pun, for the [[word]] "rank" or "grade" (ji 级) as in reference to an official position in the government.<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "halberd" (ji 戟) also has the same pronunciation, and thus is a pun, for the [[word]] "rank" or "grade" (ji 级) as in reference to an official position in the government.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| [[Horse]]<br> | | [[Horse]]<br> | ||
− | | The [[horse]] (ma 马) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]] and [[symbolizes]] speed, power and perseverance.<br> | + | | The [[horse]] (ma 马) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]] and [[symbolizes]] {{Wiki|speed}}, power and perseverance.<br> |
The [[horse]] is usually depicted as the bearer of good things. For example, a galloping [[horse]] with several scrolls (the {{Wiki|Yellow River}} Diagrams) tied on its back represents the bringing of the origins of {{Wiki|Chinese culture}} to the legendary {{Wiki|Chinese}} leader {{Wiki|Fuxi}}.<br> | The [[horse]] is usually depicted as the bearer of good things. For example, a galloping [[horse]] with several scrolls (the {{Wiki|Yellow River}} Diagrams) tied on its back represents the bringing of the origins of {{Wiki|Chinese culture}} to the legendary {{Wiki|Chinese}} leader {{Wiki|Fuxi}}.<br> | ||
The [[horse]] can be a [[symbol]] for the {{Wiki|Mongols}} ([[Yuan Dynasty]]) because their {{Wiki|culture}} is strongly associated with the [[horse]].<br> | The [[horse]] can be a [[symbol]] for the {{Wiki|Mongols}} ([[Yuan Dynasty]]) because their {{Wiki|culture}} is strongly associated with the [[horse]].<br> | ||
Please see {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Horse]] Coins for additional [[information]].<br> | Please see {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Horse]] Coins for additional [[information]].<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Kitchen [[God]] (Zaojun) | + | | Kitchen [[God]] ([[Zaojun]]) |
− | | Zaojun (灶 君), also known as Zaowang (灶王), is the popular "Kitchen [[God]]" or "Stove [[God]]" in charge of the household whose image is found in almost all {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} homes.<br><br> | + | | [[Zaojun]] (灶 君), also known as Zaowang (灶王), is the popular "Kitchen [[God]]" or "Stove [[God]]" in charge of the household whose image is found in almost all {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} homes.<br><br> |
− | Please see The {{Wiki|Chinese}} House for a more detailed [[discussion]] of Zaojun.<br> | + | Please see The {{Wiki|Chinese}} House for a more detailed [[discussion]] of [[Zaojun]].<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| [[Lion]]<br> | | [[Lion]]<br> | ||
| The [[lion]] is considered to be a brave and {{Wiki|intelligent}} [[animal]] and thus [[symbolizes]] power and majesty.<br> | | The [[lion]] is considered to be a brave and {{Wiki|intelligent}} [[animal]] and thus [[symbolizes]] power and majesty.<br> | ||
− | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[lion]] (shi 狮) has the same pronunciation and can be a [[visual]] pun or rebus for "[[teacher]]", "[[master]]", "tutor" or "[[preceptor]]" (shi 师). For this [[reason]], the [[lion]] can [[symbolize]] a high government official because in {{Wiki|ancient}} times there existed a "Senior Grand Tutor" (tai shi 太师) and a "Junior [[Preceptor]]" (shao shi 少 师).<br> | + | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[lion]] (shi [[狮]]) has the same pronunciation and can be a [[visual]] pun or rebus for "[[teacher]]", "[[master]]", "tutor" or "[[preceptor]]" (shi 师). For this [[reason]], the [[lion]] can [[symbolize]] a high government official because in {{Wiki|ancient}} times there existed a "Senior Grand Tutor" (tai shi 太师) and a "Junior [[Preceptor]]" (shao shi 少 师).<br> |
An example of such a [[lion]] charm may be seen at Open Work Charms.<br> | An example of such a [[lion]] charm may be seen at Open Work Charms.<br> | ||
In general, a stone or bronze [[lion]] outside a residence or official building acts as a guardian protecting the occupants from harm. Usually, there is a pair of [[lions]] with a {{Wiki|male}} playing with a ball and a {{Wiki|female}} protecting her cub. A pair of [[lions]] is considered to be [[auspicious]] and [[symbolizes]] [[happiness]] and the wish for a successful and [[prosperous]] career.<br> | In general, a stone or bronze [[lion]] outside a residence or official building acts as a guardian protecting the occupants from harm. Usually, there is a pair of [[lions]] with a {{Wiki|male}} playing with a ball and a {{Wiki|female}} protecting her cub. A pair of [[lions]] is considered to be [[auspicious]] and [[symbolizes]] [[happiness]] and the wish for a successful and [[prosperous]] career.<br> | ||
− | The [[lion]] dance (shiziwu 狮子舞) is an {{Wiki|ancient}} and popular {{Wiki|custom}} based on the [[lion]] being considered an [[auspicious]] [[animal]]. It is believed that if a [[lion]] can be enticed to enter one's gate, the household will enjoy [[wealth]] and [[treasures]].<br> | + | The [[lion]] [[dance]] (shiziwu 狮子舞) is an {{Wiki|ancient}} and popular {{Wiki|custom}} based on the [[lion]] being considered an [[auspicious]] [[animal]]. It is believed that if a [[lion]] can be enticed to enter one's gate, the household will enjoy [[wealth]] and [[treasures]].<br> |
In [[Buddhism]], the [[lion]] acts as a guardian of the [[faith]] and a [[symbol]] of {{Wiki|royal}} power.<br> | In [[Buddhism]], the [[lion]] acts as a guardian of the [[faith]] and a [[symbol]] of {{Wiki|royal}} power.<br> | ||
[[Buddhist]] [[deities]], such as [[Guanyin]], are sometimes shown riding a [[lion]] as a mount.<br> | [[Buddhist]] [[deities]], such as [[Guanyin]], are sometimes shown riding a [[lion]] as a mount.<br> | ||
The [[lion]] can also represent the [[Buddha]] who, among his repeated [[births]], was born 10 times as a [[lion]].<br> | The [[lion]] can also represent the [[Buddha]] who, among his repeated [[births]], was born 10 times as a [[lion]].<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Liu Hai and Three-Legged (Golden) Toad<br> | + | | [[Liu]] Hai and Three-Legged (Golden) Toad<br> |
− | | Liu Hai (刘海) is one of the most popular members of the {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|pantheon}} of charm [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] ([[Daoist]]) figures and represents {{Wiki|prosperity}} and [[wealth]].<br> | + | | [[Liu]] Hai (刘海) is one of the most popular members of the {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|pantheon}} of charm [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] ([[Daoist]]) figures and represents {{Wiki|prosperity}} and [[wealth]].<br> |
− | For detailed [[information]] concerning Liu Hai and the Three-Legged (Golden) Toad please see the entry for "toad" below and also the web page Liu Hai.<br> | + | For detailed [[information]] concerning [[Liu]] Hai and the Three-Legged (Golden) Toad please see the entry for "toad" below and also the web page [[Liu]] Hai.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Longevity Stone<br> | | Longevity Stone<br> | ||
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| Because the [[Buddha]] is often depicted as seated on a [[lotus]], the [[lotus]] is considered a [[sacred]] [[Buddhist]] [[symbol]] (one of [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]]) representing [[purity]] and [[detachment]] from [[worldly]] cares.<br> | | Because the [[Buddha]] is often depicted as seated on a [[lotus]], the [[lotus]] is considered a [[sacred]] [[Buddhist]] [[symbol]] (one of [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]]) representing [[purity]] and [[detachment]] from [[worldly]] cares.<br> | ||
The [[lotus]] {{Wiki|signifies}} the seventh month of the {{Wiki|lunar calendar}}.<br> | The [[lotus]] {{Wiki|signifies}} the seventh month of the {{Wiki|lunar calendar}}.<br> | ||
− | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[lotus]] is lianhua (莲花) or hehua (荷花). Lian is also the pronunciation of the [[word]] for continuous (连) and he is also the pronunciation for the [[word]] [[harmony]] (和) so the [[lotus]] has the hidden meaning of "continuous [[harmony]]".<br> | + | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[lotus]] is lianhua (莲花) or hehua (荷花). [[Lian]] is also the pronunciation of the [[word]] for continuous (连) and he is also the pronunciation for the [[word]] [[harmony]] ([[和]]) so the [[lotus]] has the hidden meaning of "continuous [[harmony]]".<br> |
A [[lotus]] stem and [[lotus]] pod shown together [[symbolize]] marital [[harmony]] and {{Wiki|sexual}} union.<br> | A [[lotus]] stem and [[lotus]] pod shown together [[symbolize]] marital [[harmony]] and {{Wiki|sexual}} union.<br> | ||
− | [[Lotus]] [[seeds]] (lianzi 莲 籽) have the hidden meaning of "continuous [[birth]] of children" because the lian {{Wiki|sounds}} like "continuous" (连) and the zi has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for son or child (zi [[子]]).<br> | + | [[Lotus]] [[seeds]] (lianzi 莲 籽) have the hidden meaning of "continuous [[birth]] of children" because the [[lian]] {{Wiki|sounds}} like "continuous" (连) and the zi has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for son or child (zi [[子]]).<br> |
Examples of [[lotus]] charms can be seen at Open Work Charms, Pendant Charms, Lock Charms, [[Marriage]] Charms, and Boy Charms.<br> | Examples of [[lotus]] charms can be seen at Open Work Charms, Pendant Charms, Lock Charms, [[Marriage]] Charms, and Boy Charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| A lozenge ([[fang sheng]] 方胜) is one of the Eight [[Treasures]] and is considered a [[lucky]] [[object]] although the actually origin is still unclear.<br> | | A lozenge ([[fang sheng]] 方胜) is one of the Eight [[Treasures]] and is considered a [[lucky]] [[object]] although the actually origin is still unclear.<br> | ||
It has a [[diamond]] shape and two lozenges are frequently interlocked to represent the [[form]] of an {{Wiki|ancient}} musical instrument.<br> | It has a [[diamond]] shape and two lozenges are frequently interlocked to represent the [[form]] of an {{Wiki|ancient}} musical instrument.<br> | ||
− | It is said that this [[object]] was also used as a head ornament in {{Wiki|ancient}} times and [[symbolizes]] victory. [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] ([[Daoist]]) legend has it that the [[Queen Mother of the West]] (xiwangmu 西王母) wore such an [[object]] to exorcise [[evil spirits]]. (The legend further describes the [[Queen Mother of the West]] as one who wore a heavy [[jade]] necklace, a dress made of mulberry leaves, and had the teeth of a [[tiger]].)<br> | + | It is said that this [[object]] was also used as a head ornament in {{Wiki|ancient}} times and [[symbolizes]] victory. [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] ([[Daoist]]) legend has it that the [[Queen Mother of the West]] (xiwangmu 西王母) wore such an [[object]] to exorcise [[evil spirits]]. (The legend further describes the [[Queen Mother of the West]] as one who wore a heavy [[jade]] necklace, a dress made of mulberry leaves, and had the {{Wiki|teeth}} of a [[tiger]].)<br> |
Two diamond-shaped lozenges interlocked together can represent two hearts joined together and acting with one [[mind]].<br> | Two diamond-shaped lozenges interlocked together can represent two hearts joined together and acting with one [[mind]].<br> | ||
Lozenge charms may be seen at Eight [[Treasures]], Pendant Charms, and Coin Inscriptions.<br> | Lozenge charms may be seen at Eight [[Treasures]], Pendant Charms, and Coin Inscriptions.<br> | ||
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| A magpie (xi que [[喜]] 鹊) is frequently used to [[symbolize]] "[[happiness]]" because the first [[character]] xi is the same [[word]] as [[happy]] (xi [[喜]]). If the magpie is shown upside down, it means [[happiness]] has "arrived" because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} words for "upside down" (倒) and "arrived" (到) are both pronounced [[dao]].<br> | | A magpie (xi que [[喜]] 鹊) is frequently used to [[symbolize]] "[[happiness]]" because the first [[character]] xi is the same [[word]] as [[happy]] (xi [[喜]]). If the magpie is shown upside down, it means [[happiness]] has "arrived" because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} words for "upside down" (倒) and "arrived" (到) are both pronounced [[dao]].<br> | ||
Two magpies facing each other [[symbolize]] "double [[happiness]]" (shuang xi 喜喜). (See charm at Coin Inscriptions.)<br> | Two magpies facing each other [[symbolize]] "double [[happiness]]" (shuang xi 喜喜). (See charm at Coin Inscriptions.)<br> | ||
− | A pair of magpies also [[symbolize]] [[marriage]]. This is based on an {{Wiki|ancient}} legend concerning two [[heavenly]] lovers, the Oxherd and the Weaver Girl (Weaving Maiden). The two are separated for {{Wiki|eternity}} except for one day each year (known as qixi [[七夕]], the Double Seven, or Sisters {{Wiki|Festival}}) when they are allowed to meet each other by crossing a [[celestial]] [[river]] on a bridge made of magpies.<br> | + | A pair of magpies also [[symbolize]] [[marriage]]. This is based on an {{Wiki|ancient}} legend concerning two [[heavenly]] lovers, the Oxherd and the [[Weaver]] Girl (Weaving Maiden). The two are separated for {{Wiki|eternity}} except for one day each year (known as qixi [[七夕]], the Double Seven, or Sisters {{Wiki|Festival}}) when they are allowed to meet each other by crossing a [[celestial]] [[river]] on a bridge made of magpies.<br> |
− | One can say "there is a [[happy]] bird (magpie) on the tip of the plum branch" as xi [[shang]] mei shao (喜上梅稍) which {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like saying xi [[shang]] mei shao (喜上眉稍) which means "[[happiness]] up to one's eyebrows". This expression means "very [[happy]]".<br> | + | One can say "there is a [[happy]] bird (magpie) on the tip of the plum branch" as xi [[shang]] mei shao (喜上梅稍) which {{Wiki|sounds}} exactly like saying xi [[shang]] mei shao (喜上眉稍) which means "[[happiness]] up to one's [[eyebrows]]". This expression means "very [[happy]]".<br> |
A charm illustrating this "[[happy]] expression" may be seen at Pendant Charms.<br> | A charm illustrating this "[[happy]] expression" may be seen at Pendant Charms.<br> | ||
A charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions depicts a magpie, leopard and pomegranates as [[symbols]] with hidden meanings.<br> | A charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions depicts a magpie, leopard and pomegranates as [[symbols]] with hidden meanings.<br> | ||
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| Mirrors in [[China]] [[symbolize]] good [[fortune]] and are believed to {{Wiki|protect}} against [[evil spirits]].<br> | | Mirrors in [[China]] [[symbolize]] good [[fortune]] and are believed to {{Wiki|protect}} against [[evil spirits]].<br> | ||
[[Traditional]] [[marriage]] gifts included a bronze [[mirror]] (tongjing 铜镜) and shoes (xie 鞋) because the words combined express "together and in [[harmony]]" (tongxie 同谐).<br> | [[Traditional]] [[marriage]] gifts included a bronze [[mirror]] (tongjing 铜镜) and shoes (xie 鞋) because the words combined express "together and in [[harmony]]" (tongxie 同谐).<br> | ||
− | The [[mirror]] can be included as one of the Eight [[Treasures]]. (See Liu Hai charm.)<br> | + | The [[mirror]] can be included as one of the Eight [[Treasures]]. (See [[Liu]] Hai charm.)<br> |
Bronze mirrors with [[Daoist]] "[[magic]] [[writing]]" characters are discussed at {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Daoist]] Mirrors.<br> | Bronze mirrors with [[Daoist]] "[[magic]] [[writing]]" characters are discussed at {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Daoist]] Mirrors.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[Money]] [[Tree]]<br> | | [[Money]] [[Tree]]<br> | ||
| The {{Wiki|Chinese}} "[[money]] [[tree]]" (yao qian shu 摇钱树) is a legendary [[tree]] from which coins fall down when shaken.<br> | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} "[[money]] [[tree]]" (yao qian shu 摇钱树) is a legendary [[tree]] from which coins fall down when shaken.<br> | ||
− | The {{Wiki|legends}}, history, {{Wiki|archaeological}} discoveries and images of [[money]] [[trees]] are discussed in detail at {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Money]] [[Trees]] and Xian Numismatic Museum.<br> | + | The {{Wiki|legends}}, history, {{Wiki|archaeological}} discoveries and images of [[money]] [[trees]] are discussed in detail at {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Money]] [[Trees]] and {{Wiki|Xian}} Numismatic Museum.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Monkey<br> | | Monkey<br> | ||
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The monkey is frequently seen as a [[visual]] pun for the {{Wiki|Chinese}} inscription ma [[shang]] feng hou (马上风猴) where a monkey is shown riding on a [[horse]]. The first two characters of the inscription (ma [[shang]]) mean "on the [[horse]]" but also mean "at once". The third [[character]] (feng ) means "[[wind]]" (breeze) but the {{Wiki|Chinese}} for "to grant a title" is also pronounced feng (封). The fourth [[character]] (hou) means "monkey" but another [[character]] with the same pronunciation (hou 侯) means "a marquis (i.e. a high official)". Therefore the picture of a monkey on a [[horse]] is a [[visual]] pun or rebus for the wish for an immediate promotion in official rank.<br> | The monkey is frequently seen as a [[visual]] pun for the {{Wiki|Chinese}} inscription ma [[shang]] feng hou (马上风猴) where a monkey is shown riding on a [[horse]]. The first two characters of the inscription (ma [[shang]]) mean "on the [[horse]]" but also mean "at once". The third [[character]] (feng ) means "[[wind]]" (breeze) but the {{Wiki|Chinese}} for "to grant a title" is also pronounced feng (封). The fourth [[character]] (hou) means "monkey" but another [[character]] with the same pronunciation (hou 侯) means "a marquis (i.e. a high official)". Therefore the picture of a monkey on a [[horse]] is a [[visual]] pun or rebus for the wish for an immediate promotion in official rank.<br> | ||
A similar rebus consists of a monkey and a {{Wiki|deer}} as can be seen on a charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | A similar rebus consists of a monkey and a {{Wiki|deer}} as can be seen on a charm at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
− | The Monkey [[King]] ([[Sun Wukong]] 孙悟空) is a popular [[character]] in the famous {{Wiki|Ming Dynasty}} {{Wiki|novel}} the "[[Journey to the West]]" (Xiyouji 西游记). | + | The Monkey [[King]] ([[Sun Wukong]] 孙悟空) is a popular [[character]] in the famous {{Wiki|Ming Dynasty}} {{Wiki|novel}} the "[[Journey to the West]]" (Xiyouji [[西游记]]). |
|- | |- | ||
| [[Moon]]<br> | | [[Moon]]<br> | ||
− | | For a comprehensive [[discussion]] of the relationship of the [[moon]], [[dragon]], star, and cloud [[symbols]] please visit Charm [[Symbols]]: Star, [[Moon]], Cloud and [[Dragon]]<br> | + | | For a comprehensive [[discussion]] of the relationship of the [[moon]], [[dragon]], [[star]], and cloud [[symbols]] please visit Charm [[Symbols]]: [[Star]], [[Moon]], Cloud and [[Dragon]]<br> |
A "[[moon]]" or "crescent" is a [[symbol]] sometimes found on old {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins.<br> | A "[[moon]]" or "crescent" is a [[symbol]] sometimes found on old {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins.<br> | ||
According to {{Wiki|Chinese mythology}}, the Three-Legged Toad [[lives]] on the [[moon]].<br> | According to {{Wiki|Chinese mythology}}, the Three-Legged Toad [[lives]] on the [[moon]].<br> | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Mountain<br> | | Mountain<br> | ||
− | | [[Mountains]] (shan 山) are the places closest to the [[gods]] and because of their expanse and heights covey the meaning of limitless.<br> | + | | [[Mountains]] (shan [[山]]) are the places closest to the [[gods]] and because of their expanse and heights covey the meaning of [[limitless]].<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Mugwort (Artemisia Leaf)<br> | | Mugwort (Artemisia Leaf)<br> | ||
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It is a [[symbol]] for longevity because of its {{Wiki|medicinal}} properties.<br> | It is a [[symbol]] for longevity because of its {{Wiki|medicinal}} properties.<br> | ||
In {{Wiki|ancient}} times, mugwort was [[attached]] to doors and gates because its ragged leaves resemble [[tiger]] paws which were believed to provide [[protection]].<br> | In {{Wiki|ancient}} times, mugwort was [[attached]] to doors and gates because its ragged leaves resemble [[tiger]] paws which were believed to provide [[protection]].<br> | ||
− | Its aroma is also believed to repel {{Wiki|insects}}.<br> | + | Its [[aroma]] is also believed to repel {{Wiki|insects}}.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Narcissus<br> | | Narcissus<br> | ||
| Narcissus (shuixian 水仙) literally means "[[water]] [[immortal]]".<br> | | Narcissus (shuixian 水仙) literally means "[[water]] [[immortal]]".<br> | ||
The [[flower]] is therefore a [[symbol]] for an [[immortal]].<br> | The [[flower]] is therefore a [[symbol]] for an [[immortal]].<br> | ||
− | A typical rebus or [[visual]] pun might be an image of a narcissus, a stone and {{Wiki|bamboo}}. The meaning would be "the [[immortals]]" (narcissus) "wish" (({{Wiki|bamboo}} (zhu 竹) = wish (zhu 祝)) "you" a "long [[life]]" (longevity stone).<br> | + | A typical rebus or [[visual]] pun might be an image of a narcissus, a stone and {{Wiki|bamboo}}. The meaning would be "the [[immortals]]" (narcissus) "wish" (({{Wiki|bamboo}} (zhu [[竹]]) = wish (zhu 祝)) "you" a "long [[life]]" (longevity stone).<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Nine (9)<br> | | Nine (9)<br> | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Nine (9) Similitudes<br> | | Nine (9) Similitudes<br> | ||
− | | The "nine similitudes" is a reference from the "[[Book]] of Odes" (shijing 诗经) which is the earliest collection of {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[poetry]] and includes poems, songs and hymns from the {{Wiki|Zhou Dynasty}} (1046-771 BC) and the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC).<br> | + | | The "nine similitudes" is a reference from the "[[Book]] of Odes" ([[shijing]] 诗经) which is the earliest collection of {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[poetry]] and includes [[poems]], songs and hymns from the {{Wiki|Zhou Dynasty}} (1046-771 BC) and the [[Spring and Autumn Period]] (770-476 BC).<br> |
− | The "nine similitudes" is now used as a greeting or felicitous wish translated as follows: "May you be as the [[mountains]] and the hills, as the greater and the lesser heights, as the streams which flow in all [[directions]], having the constancy of the [[moon]], like the rising {{Wiki|sun}}, with the longevity of the southern mountain and the green luxuriance of the fir and the cypress."<br> | + | The "nine similitudes" is now used as a greeting or felicitous wish translated as follows: "May you be as the [[mountains]] and the hills, as the greater and the lesser heights, as the streams which flow in all [[directions]], having the constancy of the [[moon]], like the [[rising]] {{Wiki|sun}}, with the longevity of the southern mountain and the [[green]] luxuriance of the fir and the cypress."<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Onion<br> | | Onion<br> | ||
| The onion (cong 葱) is a [[visual]] pun for [[intelligence]] because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "{{Wiki|intelligent}}" or "clever" (congming 聪明).<br> | | The onion (cong 葱) is a [[visual]] pun for [[intelligence]] because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "{{Wiki|intelligent}}" or "clever" (congming 聪明).<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Orange<br> | + | | [[Orange]]<br> |
| Oranges [[symbolize]] riches and good [[fortune]] because of their {{Wiki|gold}} {{Wiki|color}}.<br> | | Oranges [[symbolize]] riches and good [[fortune]] because of their {{Wiki|gold}} {{Wiki|color}}.<br> | ||
Also, the {{Wiki|chinese}} [[character]] for the orange is ju (桔) which is composed of mu ([[木]]), meaning "[[tree]]", and ji (吉) meaning "[[lucky]] or [[auspicious]]". The two components of the [[character]] therefore imply that the orange is a "[[good luck]]" fruit.<br> | Also, the {{Wiki|chinese}} [[character]] for the orange is ju (桔) which is composed of mu ([[木]]), meaning "[[tree]]", and ji (吉) meaning "[[lucky]] or [[auspicious]]". The two components of the [[character]] therefore imply that the orange is a "[[good luck]]" fruit.<br> | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Peanut<br> | | Peanut<br> | ||
− | | The peanut (huasheng 花生) is an [[auspicious]] [[symbol]] because its second [[character]] (sheng 生) means to "give [[birth]]".<br> | + | | The peanut (huasheng [[花生]]) is an [[auspicious]] [[symbol]] because its second [[character]] (sheng [[生]]) means to "give [[birth]]".<br> |
The peanut thus [[symbolizes]] the wish for many children.<br> | The peanut thus [[symbolizes]] the wish for many children.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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For this [[reason]], another [[name]] for the peony is fuguihua (富贵花) which means "[[flower]] of [[wealth]] and {{Wiki|honor}}".<br> | For this [[reason]], another [[name]] for the peony is fuguihua (富贵花) which means "[[flower]] of [[wealth]] and {{Wiki|honor}}".<br> | ||
A charm using the peony as a [[symbol]] for "[[wealth]] and {{Wiki|honor}}" may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | A charm using the peony as a [[symbol]] for "[[wealth]] and {{Wiki|honor}}" may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
− | A peony in a vase (ping 瓶) has the hidden meaning of "[[wealth]] and {{Wiki|honor}}" (peony) and "[[peace]]" (because the vase is a rebus for "[[peace]]" (pingan 平 安).<br> | + | A peony in a [[vase]] (ping 瓶) has the hidden meaning of "[[wealth]] and {{Wiki|honor}}" (peony) and "[[peace]]" (because the [[vase]] is a rebus for "[[peace]]" (pingan 平 安).<br> |
For the [[mythology]] concerning the peony please see {{Wiki|Chinese}} Open Work Charms.<br> | For the [[mythology]] concerning the peony please see {{Wiki|Chinese}} Open Work Charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| The persimmon (shi 柿) is [[auspicious]] because of its round shape and brilliant orange {{Wiki|color}}.<br> | | The persimmon (shi 柿) is [[auspicious]] because of its round shape and brilliant orange {{Wiki|color}}.<br> | ||
The persimmon is used as a [[visual]] pun (rebus) because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "matters, affairs or events" (shi [[事]]) and also the [[word]] for an "official" or "gentleman" (shi 仕).<br> | The persimmon is used as a [[visual]] pun (rebus) because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "matters, affairs or events" (shi [[事]]) and also the [[word]] for an "official" or "gentleman" (shi 仕).<br> | ||
− | A persimmon (shi 柿) shown together with an apple (pingguo 苹果) [[forms]] the rebus "may your matters (shi [[事]]) be safe ( pingan 平安)".<br> | + | A persimmon (shi 柿) shown together with an apple (pingguo 苹果) [[forms]] the rebus "may your matters (shi [[事]]) be safe ( pingan [[平安]])".<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| [[Phoenix]] ([[fenghuang]])<br> | | [[Phoenix]] ([[fenghuang]])<br> | ||
| The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[phoenix]] is a [[mythical]] bird known as the [[fenghuang]] (凤 [[凰]]) in {{Wiki|Chinese}}.<br> | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[phoenix]] is a [[mythical]] bird known as the [[fenghuang]] (凤 [[凰]]) in {{Wiki|Chinese}}.<br> | ||
− | Unlike the [[phoenix]] of the [[West]], the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[phoenix]] does not have the connotation of a bird rising from ashes.<br> | + | Unlike the [[phoenix]] of the [[West]], the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[phoenix]] does not have the connotation of a bird [[rising]] from ashes.<br> |
The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[phoenix]] [[symbolizes]] [[joy]] and [[peace]].<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[phoenix]] [[symbolizes]] [[joy]] and [[peace]].<br> | ||
It is believed that the [[phoenix]] only makes an [[appearance]] during periods of {{Wiki|prosperity}}, [[peace]] and good government.<br> | It is believed that the [[phoenix]] only makes an [[appearance]] during periods of {{Wiki|prosperity}}, [[peace]] and good government.<br> | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Pig ({{Wiki|Boar}}) (Hog)<br> | | Pig ({{Wiki|Boar}}) (Hog)<br> | ||
− | | The pig or {{Wiki|boar}} (zhu 猪) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]] and [[traditionally]] [[symbolized]] the {{Wiki|prosperity}} and good [[fortune]] of a family that could afford such a quality [[food]] source.<br> | + | | The pig or {{Wiki|boar}} (zhu 猪) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]] and [[traditionally]] [[symbolized]] the {{Wiki|prosperity}} and good [[fortune]] of a [[family]] that could afford such a [[quality]] [[food]] source.<br> |
An old {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|custom}} was to have young {{Wiki|male}} children wear hats and shoes in the shape of a pig. {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[parents]] believed this would avoid misfortune since the [[evil spirits]] would be fooled into [[thinking]] the child was actually a pig.<br> | An old {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|custom}} was to have young {{Wiki|male}} children wear hats and shoes in the shape of a pig. {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[parents]] believed this would avoid misfortune since the [[evil spirits]] would be fooled into [[thinking]] the child was actually a pig.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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The plum [[symbolizes]] [[courage]] and {{Wiki|hope}} because it blossoms first and bravely stands against the dangers of winter.<br> | The plum [[symbolizes]] [[courage]] and {{Wiki|hope}} because it blossoms first and bravely stands against the dangers of winter.<br> | ||
The plum [[tree]] is a member of the Three Friends in Winter.<br> | The plum [[tree]] is a member of the Three Friends in Winter.<br> | ||
− | The five petals of the plum blossom [[symbolize]] the "five [[blessings]]" (wufu 五福), also known as the "five happinesses" or "five good fortunes". These five [[blessings]] refer to longevity (寿), [[wealth]] (富), health and composure (康宁), [[virtue]] (修好德), and the [[desire]] to [[die]] a natural [[death]] in [[old age]] (考 终命).<br> | + | The five petals of the plum blossom [[symbolize]] the "five [[blessings]]" (wufu 五福), also known as the "five happinesses" or "five good fortunes". These five [[blessings]] refer to longevity (寿), [[wealth]] (富), [[health]] and composure (康宁), [[virtue]] (修好德), and the [[desire]] to [[die]] a natural [[death]] in [[old age]] (考 终命).<br> |
Charms displaying the plum [[symbol]] may be seen at Pendant Charms, Boy Charms, and Lock Charms.<br> | Charms displaying the plum [[symbol]] may be seen at Pendant Charms, Boy Charms, and Lock Charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Reed Pipe<br> | | Reed Pipe<br> | ||
− | | A reed pipe (sheng 笙) has the hidden meaning of "to give [[birth]]" because it has the same pronunciation as the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] "to give [[birth]]" (sheng 生).<br> | + | | A reed pipe (sheng 笙) has the hidden meaning of "to give [[birth]]" because it has the same pronunciation as the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] "to give [[birth]]" (sheng [[生]]).<br> |
A reed pipe (sheng 笙) can also mean "to rise" or be promoted continually one rank after another because it shares the same pronunication as the [[word]] "to rise" (sheng 升).<br> | A reed pipe (sheng 笙) can also mean "to rise" or be promoted continually one rank after another because it shares the same pronunication as the [[word]] "to rise" (sheng 升).<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Rhinoceros Horns<br> | + | | [[Rhinoceros]] Horns<br> |
− | | A single or pair of rhinoceros horns (xijiao 犀角) is usually included as one of the Eight [[Treasures]]. Rhino horns [[symbolize]] [[happiness]] because the first [[character]] (xi 犀) is pronounced the same as the [[character]] for [[happiness]] (xi [[喜]]).<br> | + | | A single or pair of [[rhinoceros]] horns (xijiao 犀角) is usually included as one of the Eight [[Treasures]]. Rhino horns [[symbolize]] [[happiness]] because the first [[character]] (xi 犀) is pronounced the same as the [[character]] for [[happiness]] (xi [[喜]]).<br> |
− | Charms with rhinoceros horns may be viewed at Eight [[Treasures]] and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | + | Charms with [[rhinoceros]] horns may be viewed at Eight [[Treasures]] and [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> |
− | A charm with the rhinoceros as its theme is discussed in detail at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | + | A charm with the [[rhinoceros]] as its theme is discussed in detail at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Ribbons and fillets<br> | | Ribbons and fillets<br> | ||
− | | {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[symbols]] are frequently shown wrapped in ribbons which are also referred to as fillets. These ribbons add importance to the power of the [[object]] they surround. The ribbons can be [[thought]] of as rays or auras [[emanating]] from the [[object]] and [[symbolizing]] miraculous [[powers]].<br> | + | | {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[symbols]] are frequently shown wrapped in ribbons which are also referred to as fillets. These ribbons add importance to the power of the [[object]] they surround. The ribbons can be [[thought]] of as rays or [[auras]] [[emanating]] from the [[object]] and [[symbolizing]] miraculous [[powers]].<br> |
The {{Wiki|Chinese}} for ribbon is dai (带) which also has another meaning of "to carry". Another {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] with the same pronunciation (dai 代) means "generations". When the ribbon is shown connecting two or more [[auspicious]] [[objects]], the hidden meaning of the ribbon therefore is "to carry along ([[good luck]], good [[fortune]], etc.) for generations".<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} for ribbon is dai (带) which also has another meaning of "to carry". Another {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] with the same pronunciation (dai 代) means "generations". When the ribbon is shown connecting two or more [[auspicious]] [[objects]], the hidden meaning of the ribbon therefore is "to carry along ([[good luck]], good [[fortune]], etc.) for generations".<br> | ||
− | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for a ribbon [[attached]] to a official seal or medal is shou dai (绶带). Shou (绶) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "longevity" (shou 寿) and since dai (带) is pronounced the same as "generations" (dai 代), the hidden meaning is "longevity for generations". <br>Even though {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms are not able to display colors, the {{Wiki|Chinese}} always use red colored ribbons in real [[life]]. Red ([[vermilion]], {{Wiki|cinnabar}}) is the {{Wiki|color}} representing [[joy]] and it is used widely for marriages and other festive occasions. The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for red is hong (红). Other {{Wiki|Chinese}} words with the same pronunciation include "great" (hong 宏) and "vast" (hong 洪), so any [[object]] wrapped in a (red) ribbon would also be enhanced through the phonetic pun of great and vast.<br> | + | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for a ribbon [[attached]] to a official {{Wiki|seal}} or medal is shou dai (绶带). Shou (绶) has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "longevity" (shou 寿) and since dai (带) is pronounced the same as "generations" (dai 代), the hidden meaning is "longevity for generations". <br>Even though {{Wiki|Chinese}} charms are not able to display colors, the {{Wiki|Chinese}} always use [[red]] colored ribbons in real [[life]]. [[Red]] ([[vermilion]], {{Wiki|cinnabar}}) is the {{Wiki|color}} representing [[joy]] and it is used widely for marriages and other festive occasions. The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for [[red]] is hong (红). Other {{Wiki|Chinese}} words with the same pronunciation include "great" (hong 宏) and "vast" (hong 洪), so any [[object]] wrapped in a ([[red]]) ribbon would also be enhanced through the phonetic pun of great and vast.<br> |
Examples of charm [[symbols]] wrapped in ribbons can be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions, [[Bagua]] Charms, and Coin Inscriptions.<br> | Examples of charm [[symbols]] wrapped in ribbons can be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions, [[Bagua]] Charms, and Coin Inscriptions.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| {{Wiki|Rooster}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Rooster}}<br> | ||
− | | The {{Wiki|rooster}} or cock is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | + | | The {{Wiki|rooster}} or [[cock]] is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> |
Roosters are believed to be able to scare away {{Wiki|demons}}.<br> | Roosters are believed to be able to scare away {{Wiki|demons}}.<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|Chinese}} for {{Wiki|rooster}} (gongji 公鸡) is pronounced the same as "[[lucky]]" or "[[auspicious]]" (ji 吉).<br> | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} for {{Wiki|rooster}} (gongji 公鸡) is pronounced the same as "[[lucky]]" or "[[auspicious]]" (ji 吉).<br> | ||
− | A crowing {{Wiki|rooster}} ([[gong]] [[ming]] 公 鸣) {{Wiki|sounds}} like saying "[[merit]] and [[fame]]" ([[gong]] [[ming]] 功名).<br> | + | A crowing {{Wiki|rooster}} ([[gong]] [[ming]] [[公]] 鸣) {{Wiki|sounds}} like saying "[[merit]] and [[fame]]" ([[gong]] [[ming]] 功名).<br> |
A charm using the {{Wiki|rooster}} to [[symbolize]] "[[lucky]]" and "[[merit]] and [[fame]]" may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | A charm using the {{Wiki|rooster}} to [[symbolize]] "[[lucky]]" and "[[merit]] and [[fame]]" may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[Ruyi]] or {{Wiki|Sceptre}}<br> | | [[Ruyi]] or {{Wiki|Sceptre}}<br> | ||
| The [[ruyi]] (如意), considered one of the Eight [[Treasures]], was a {{Wiki|sceptre}} which represented power and authority.<br> | | The [[ruyi]] (如意), considered one of the Eight [[Treasures]], was a {{Wiki|sceptre}} which represented power and authority.<br> | ||
− | The [[ruyi]] was originally a short sword with a sword-guard used for self-defense or gesturing. There is some speculation that it may have evolved from a back scratcher.<br> | + | The [[ruyi]] was originally a short sword with a sword-guard used for [[self-defense]] or gesturing. There is some speculation that it may have evolved from a back scratcher.<br> |
The head of the [[ruyi]] is similar to that of the [[lingzhi]] or "fungus of [[immortality]]" and the [[lotus]].<br> | The head of the [[ruyi]] is similar to that of the [[lingzhi]] or "fungus of [[immortality]]" and the [[lotus]].<br> | ||
The [[name]] "[[ruyi]]" is usually translated as "as you wish" or "in accordance with your [[desires]]".<br> | The [[name]] "[[ruyi]]" is usually translated as "as you wish" or "in accordance with your [[desires]]".<br> | ||
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| The sheep, [[ram]] or {{Wiki|goat}} ([[yang]] 羊) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | | The sheep, [[ram]] or {{Wiki|goat}} ([[yang]] 羊) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | ||
The sheep ([[yang]]) has the same pronunciation and therefore [[symbolizes]] the {{Wiki|male}} [[principle]] [[yang]] in [[Yin Yang]] ([[阴]] [[阳]]) and also the "{{Wiki|sun}}" ([[yang]] [[阳]]).<br> | The sheep ([[yang]]) has the same pronunciation and therefore [[symbolizes]] the {{Wiki|male}} [[principle]] [[yang]] in [[Yin Yang]] ([[阴]] [[阳]]) and also the "{{Wiki|sun}}" ([[yang]] [[阳]]).<br> | ||
− | Sheep kneel when they nurse which to Confucians [[symbolize]] "filial piety" as bowing to the mother.<br> | + | Sheep kneel when they nurse which to [[Confucians]] [[symbolize]] "filial piety" as [[bowing]] to the mother.<br> |
Please also see entry for {{Wiki|goat}} above. <br> | Please also see entry for {{Wiki|goat}} above. <br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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Shoes (xie 鞋), because of [[identical]] pronunciation, are used in combination with other [[objects]] to express "in [[harmony]] with" (xie 谐) or "together with" (xie 偕).<br> | Shoes (xie 鞋), because of [[identical]] pronunciation, are used in combination with other [[objects]] to express "in [[harmony]] with" (xie 谐) or "together with" (xie 偕).<br> | ||
Visit [[Marriage]] Charms to see how shoes and a [[mirror]] [[symbolize]] "together and in [[harmony]]".<br> | Visit [[Marriage]] Charms to see how shoes and a [[mirror]] [[symbolize]] "together and in [[harmony]]".<br> | ||
− | The special shoes worn by women with bound feet were called "[[lotus]]" (lian 莲) shoes. "[[Lotus]]" and "continuous" or "successive" (lian 连) have the same pronunciation so "[[lotus]]" shoes [[symbolize]] a {{Wiki|fertility}} wish for bearing children one after another.<br> | + | The special shoes worn by women with [[bound]] feet were called "[[lotus]]" ([[lian]] 莲) shoes. "[[Lotus]]" and "continuous" or "successive" ([[lian]] 连) have the same pronunciation so "[[lotus]]" shoes [[symbolize]] a {{Wiki|fertility}} wish for bearing children one after another.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Shrimp<br> | | Shrimp<br> | ||
| Shrimp (虾) are considered to be [[auspicious]] because the pronunciation in [[Wikipedia:Mandarin Chinese|Mandarin]] (xia) and [[Cantonese]] (ha) is very similar to the [[sound]] of [[people]] laughing (ha ha ha).<br> | | Shrimp (虾) are considered to be [[auspicious]] because the pronunciation in [[Wikipedia:Mandarin Chinese|Mandarin]] (xia) and [[Cantonese]] (ha) is very similar to the [[sound]] of [[people]] laughing (ha ha ha).<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Silver Ingots (s ycee) | + | | {{Wiki|Silver}} Ingots (s ycee) |
− | | Silver became a [[measure]] of value during the [[Yuan Dynasty]] (1280 - 1368 AD) and therefore represents [[wealth]].<br> | + | | {{Wiki|Silver}} became a [[measure]] of value during the [[Yuan Dynasty]] (1280 - 1368 AD) and therefore represents [[wealth]].<br> |
The {{Wiki|silver}} was moulded into boat-shaped or shoe-shaped ingots called sycee (细 丝) which could weigh from 1 to 100 ounces.<br> | The {{Wiki|silver}} was moulded into boat-shaped or shoe-shaped ingots called sycee (细 丝) which could weigh from 1 to 100 ounces.<br> | ||
Sycee are also known as "saddle sycee", "{{Wiki|silver}} sycee", and "drum-shaped sycee".<br> | Sycee are also known as "saddle sycee", "{{Wiki|silver}} sycee", and "drum-shaped sycee".<br> | ||
− | Silver ingots or sycee also [[symbolize]] official office or rank because of a [[visual]] pun or rebus. Sycee are also known as yuanbao (元宝). [[Yuan]] (元) can also refer to coming in first in the examination system.<br> | + | {{Wiki|Silver}} ingots or sycee also [[symbolize]] official office or rank because of a [[visual]] pun or rebus. Sycee are also known as yuanbao ([[元宝]]). [[Yuan]] (元) can also refer to coming in first in the {{Wiki|examination}} system.<br> |
Therefore, showing three (3) {{Wiki|silver}} ingots or sycee has the hidden meaning of coming in first in all three of the {{Wiki|imperial}} examinations.<br> | Therefore, showing three (3) {{Wiki|silver}} ingots or sycee has the hidden meaning of coming in first in all three of the {{Wiki|imperial}} examinations.<br> | ||
− | Silver ingots are one of the Eight [[Treasures]] and [[symbolize]] [[brightness]] and [[purity]].<br> | + | {{Wiki|Silver}} ingots are one of the Eight [[Treasures]] and [[symbolize]] [[brightness]] and [[purity]].<br> |
− | Silver ingots displayed as [[symbols]] on charms may be seen at Eight [[Treasures]], [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions, and Pendant Charms.<br> | + | {{Wiki|Silver}} ingots displayed as [[symbols]] on charms may be seen at Eight [[Treasures]], [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions, and Pendant Charms.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Six (6)<br> | | Six (6)<br> | ||
− | | The number six (6) is considered [[lucky]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for six (liu 六) has a similar pronunciation to the [[word]] "{{Wiki|prosperity}}" (lu 禄).<br> | + | | The number six (6) is considered [[lucky]] because the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] for six ([[liu]] 六) has a similar pronunciation to the [[word]] "{{Wiki|prosperity}}" (lu 禄).<br> |
− | The number six (6), in its more formal written [[form]] (liu 陆), coincidentally has exactly the same pronunciation as {{Wiki|prosperity}} (lu 禄) when the [[character]] is used in a different context (lu 陆) such as a surname.<br> | + | The number six (6), in its more formal written [[form]] ([[liu]] 陆), coincidentally has exactly the same pronunciation as {{Wiki|prosperity}} (lu 禄) when the [[character]] is used in a different context (lu 陆) such as a surname.<br> |
− | Because the pronunciation of six (6) (liu 六) is similar to that of the [[word]] "to flow" (liu 流), it [[symbolizes]] "to go smoothly". The {{Wiki|Chinese}} have the expression "Everything goes smoothly with six" (liu liu da [[shun]] 六六大顺). For this [[reason]], major events such as weddings, opening a new business, etc. are held on the 6th day of the month.<br> | + | Because the pronunciation of six (6) ([[liu]] 六) is similar to that of the [[word]] "to flow" ([[liu]] 流), it [[symbolizes]] "to go smoothly". The {{Wiki|Chinese}} have the expression "Everything goes smoothly with six" ([[liu]] [[liu]] da [[shun]] 六六大顺). For this [[reason]], major events such as {{Wiki|weddings}}, opening a new business, etc. are held on the 6th day of the month.<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| {{Wiki|Snake}}<br> | | {{Wiki|Snake}}<br> | ||
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| The spider (zhizhu 蜘蛛) is one of the five {{Wiki|poisonous}} [[animals]] known as the "[[five poisons]]".<br> | | The spider (zhizhu 蜘蛛) is one of the five {{Wiki|poisonous}} [[animals]] known as the "[[five poisons]]".<br> | ||
Contrary to what one might expect, the "[[five poisons]]" are a good thing in that they are believed to counteract [[pernicious]] [[influences]] by combating [[poison]] with [[poison]].<br> | Contrary to what one might expect, the "[[five poisons]]" are a good thing in that they are believed to counteract [[pernicious]] [[influences]] by combating [[poison]] with [[poison]].<br> | ||
− | When not a member of the [[five poisons]], the spider is considered an [[auspicious]] [[symbol]] on its own. This is because another [[word]] for spider in {{Wiki|Chinese}} is xizi (虫喜 [[子]]) where the first [[character]] has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "[[happy]]" (xi [[喜]]).<br> | + | When not a member of the [[five poisons]], the spider is considered an [[auspicious]] [[symbol]] on its [[own]]. This is because another [[word]] for spider in {{Wiki|Chinese}} is xizi (虫喜 [[子]]) where the first [[character]] has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] for "[[happy]]" (xi [[喜]]).<br> |
A picture of a spider dropping down from its web is thus a [[visual]] pun for "[[happiness]] dropping from the sky".<br> | A picture of a spider dropping down from its web is thus a [[visual]] pun for "[[happiness]] dropping from the sky".<br> | ||
For the same [[reason]], a spider {{Wiki|signifies}} a wish to have a son or child because zi ([[子]]) means "son" and xizi thus {{Wiki|sounds}} like "[[happy]] son".<br> | For the same [[reason]], a spider {{Wiki|signifies}} a wish to have a son or child because zi ([[子]]) means "son" and xizi thus {{Wiki|sounds}} like "[[happy]] son".<br> | ||
The spider as a charm [[symbol]] may be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Five Poisons]] Charms and Amulets.<br> | The spider as a charm [[symbol]] may be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Five Poisons]] Charms and Amulets.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Star<br> | + | | [[Star]]<br> |
− | | For a comprehensive [[discussion]] of the relationship of the star, [[moon]], cloud, and [[dragon]] [[symbols]] please visit Charm [[Symbols]]: Star, [[Moon]], Cloud and [[Dragon]].<br> | + | | For a comprehensive [[discussion]] of the relationship of the [[star]], [[moon]], cloud, and [[dragon]] [[symbols]] please visit Charm [[Symbols]]: [[Star]], [[Moon]], Cloud and [[Dragon]].<br> |
"Stars" or dots are sometimes found on {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins and examples may be seen at [[Emergence]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms. <br> | "Stars" or dots are sometimes found on {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins and examples may be seen at [[Emergence]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms. <br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Star [[Gods]]<br> | + | | [[Star]] [[Gods]]<br> |
− | | The three Star [[Gods]] consist of the "[[lucky]] star" (fuxing 福星), the "{{Wiki|prosperity}} star" (luxing 禄星) and the "longevity star" (shouxing 寿星).<br> | + | | The three [[Star]] [[Gods]] consist of the "[[lucky]] [[star]]" (fuxing 福星), the "{{Wiki|prosperity}} [[star]]" (luxing 禄星) and the "longevity [[star]]" (shouxing 寿星).<br> |
− | These [[gods]] evolved into Fu ([[God]] of [[Happiness]]), Lu ([[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}}) and Shou ([[God]] of Longevity).<br> | + | These [[gods]] evolved into [[Fu]] ([[God]] of [[Happiness]]), Lu ([[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}}) and Shou ([[God]] of Longevity).<br> |
− | They are popular [[gods]] whose duties are, respectively, to increase [[happiness]], [[wealth]] and length of [[life]].<br> | + | They are popular [[gods]] whose duties are, respectively, [[to increase]] [[happiness]], [[wealth]] and length of [[life]].<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Stork<br> | | Stork<br> | ||
| The stork ([[guan]] 鹳) is believed to live 1,000 years and is therefore a [[symbol]] of longevity.<br> | | The stork ([[guan]] 鹳) is believed to live 1,000 years and is therefore a [[symbol]] of longevity.<br> | ||
The stork is frequently shown together with pine [[trees]] which are another [[symbol]] of longevity.<br> | The stork is frequently shown together with pine [[trees]] which are another [[symbol]] of longevity.<br> | ||
− | Storks are the means of transportation for both the [[Queen Mother of the West]] (xiwangmu 西王母) and the "longevity star" (shouxing 寿星).<br> | + | Storks are the means of transportation for both the [[Queen Mother of the West]] (xiwangmu 西王母) and the "longevity [[star]]" (shouxing 寿星).<br> |
Because the [[word]] for stork ([[guan]] 鹳) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as the words for an "official" ([[guan]] 官), a "hat" ([[guan]] 冠), and "first place" ([[guan]] 冠), the stork also [[symbolizes]] promotion to a government office.<br> | Because the [[word]] for stork ([[guan]] 鹳) {{Wiki|sounds}} the same as the words for an "official" ([[guan]] 官), a "hat" ([[guan]] 冠), and "first place" ([[guan]] 冠), the stork also [[symbolizes]] promotion to a government office.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| [[Swastika]]<br> | | [[Swastika]]<br> | ||
| The [[swastika]] is a very old {{Wiki|Asian}} [[symbol]].<br> | | The [[swastika]] is a very old {{Wiki|Asian}} [[symbol]].<br> | ||
− | The [[swastika]] [[symbol]] in [[China]] represents the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] wan (万) meaning "ten-thousand". The extended meaning of wan (万) is "all" such as "the myriad things" as used in the [[Dao]] De [[Jing]] (道德经), the classic [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] ([[Daoist]]) text written by Lao-zi (老子).<br> | + | The [[swastika]] [[symbol]] in [[China]] represents the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[character]] wan (万) meaning "ten-thousand". The extended meaning of wan (万) is "all" such as "the {{Wiki|myriad}} things" as used in the [[Dao]] De [[Jing]] (道德经), the classic [[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]] ([[Daoist]]) text written by Lao-zi ([[老子]]).<br> |
− | The [[swastika]] as a charm [[symbol]] may be seen at Liu Hai and the Three-Legged Toad.<br> | + | The [[swastika]] as a charm [[symbol]] may be seen at [[Liu]] Hai and the Three-Legged Toad.<br> |
{{Wiki|Chinese}} coins with the [[swastika]] [[symbol]] can be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins and [[Emergence]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms.<br> | {{Wiki|Chinese}} coins with the [[swastika]] [[symbol]] can be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} Coins and [[Emergence]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Ten [[Symbols]] of Longevity<br> | | Ten [[Symbols]] of Longevity<br> | ||
− | | The "Ten [[Symbols]] of Longevity" or "Ten Longevities" (shi shou 十寿) consist of the pine [[tree]] (song 松), {{Wiki|sun}} (ri [[日]]), crane (he 鹤), [[water]] (shui [[水]]), [[mountains]] (shan 山), clouds (yun 云), {{Wiki|deer}} (lu [[鹿]]), {{Wiki|tortoise}} (gui 龟), fungus of [[immortality]] ([[lingzhi]] 灵 芝), and {{Wiki|bamboo}} (zhu 竹).<br> | + | | The "Ten [[Symbols]] of Longevity" or "Ten Longevities" (shi shou 十寿) consist of the pine [[tree]] (song 松), {{Wiki|sun}} (ri [[日]]), crane (he 鹤), [[water]] ([[shui]] [[水]]), [[mountains]] (shan [[山]]), clouds (yun 云), {{Wiki|deer}} (lu [[鹿]]), {{Wiki|tortoise}} (gui 龟), fungus of [[immortality]] ([[lingzhi]] 灵 芝), and {{Wiki|bamboo}} (zhu [[竹]]).<br> |
All are {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} [[symbols]] representing a long [[life]].<br> | All are {{Wiki|traditional Chinese}} [[symbols]] representing a long [[life]].<br> | ||
The Ten [[Symbols]] of Longevity also became very popular in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[Korea]] as a theme for charms and other works of [[art]].<br> | The Ten [[Symbols]] of Longevity also became very popular in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[Korea]] as a theme for charms and other works of [[art]].<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Three Abundances<br> | | Three Abundances<br> | ||
− | | The Three Abundances (sanduo 三多), also known as the Three Plenties, consists of the peach ([[symbolizing]] longevity), the pomegranate ([[symbolizing]] descendants or progeny) and the citron ([[symbolizing]] [[happiness]] and longevity).<br> | + | | The Three Abundances (sanduo 三多), also known as the Three Plenties, consists of the peach ([[symbolizing]] longevity), the pomegranate ([[symbolizing]] descendants or progeny) and the [[citron]] ([[symbolizing]] [[happiness]] and longevity).<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| Three Friends in Winter | | Three Friends in Winter | ||
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| Three Officials<br> | | Three Officials<br> | ||
(Three [[Immortals]])<br> | (Three [[Immortals]])<br> | ||
− | | The Three Officials, also known as the Three [[Immortals]], include the [[God]] of [[Happiness]] (Fu), the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu) and the [[God]] of Longvevity (Shou).<br> | + | | The Three Officials, also known as the Three [[Immortals]], include the [[God]] of [[Happiness]] ([[Fu]]), the [[God]] of {{Wiki|Prosperity}} (Lu) and the [[God]] of Longvevity (Shou).<br> |
A "Three [[Immortals]]" charm may be seen at {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} Lock Charms. | A "Three [[Immortals]]" charm may be seen at {{Wiki|Ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} Lock Charms. | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Three Rounds<br> | | Three Rounds<br> | ||
| The Three Rounds refers to any grouping of three round [[objects]].<br> | | The Three Rounds refers to any grouping of three round [[objects]].<br> | ||
− | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "round" ([[yuan]] 圆) is pronounced the same as the [[word]] for "first" ([[yuan]] 元). In this case, "first" refers to being the top [[scholar]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} examination system. With the addition of the number "three" (san 三), the meaning is to come in first in all three of the examinations.<br> | + | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] for "round" ([[yuan]] 圆) is pronounced the same as the [[word]] for "first" ([[yuan]] 元). In this case, "first" refers to being the top [[scholar]] in the {{Wiki|imperial}} {{Wiki|examination}} system. With the addition of the number "three" (san 三), the meaning is to come in first in all three of the examinations.<br> |
A charm illustrating the Three Rounds may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions. | A charm illustrating the Three Rounds may be seen at [[Auspicious]] Inscriptions. | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[Tiger]] (leopard)<br> | | [[Tiger]] (leopard)<br> | ||
− | | The [[tiger]] (hu 虎) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]] and is considered the [[ruler]] of the {{Wiki|beasts}} on [[Earth]] as opposed to the [[dragon]] which rules the {{Wiki|beasts}} in the sky and [[heavens]].<br> | + | | The [[tiger]] (hu 虎) is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]] and is considered the [[ruler]] of the {{Wiki|beasts}} on [[Earth]] as opposed to the [[dragon]] which {{Wiki|rules}} the {{Wiki|beasts}} in the sky and [[heavens]].<br> |
The [[word]] for [[tiger]] (hu) is also a pun because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] "{{Wiki|protect}}" (hu 护).<br> | The [[word]] for [[tiger]] (hu) is also a pun because it has the same pronunciation as the [[word]] "{{Wiki|protect}}" (hu 护).<br> | ||
In {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]], the [[tiger]] was the [[Guardian Spirit]] of {{Wiki|Agriculture}} which could devour the Drought {{Wiki|Demon}}.<br> | In {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]], the [[tiger]] was the [[Guardian Spirit]] of {{Wiki|Agriculture}} which could devour the Drought {{Wiki|Demon}}.<br> | ||
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{{Wiki|Tigers}} also are able to see well in the dark.<br> | {{Wiki|Tigers}} also are able to see well in the dark.<br> | ||
For these [[reasons]], images of {{Wiki|tigers}} and tiger's heads (see Peach Charms) are considered particularly effective in protecting children from malignant [[spirits]].<br> | For these [[reasons]], images of {{Wiki|tigers}} and tiger's heads (see Peach Charms) are considered particularly effective in protecting children from malignant [[spirits]].<br> | ||
− | {{Wiki|Tigers}} also [[symbolize]] longevity because the {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} believed {{Wiki|tigers}} turned white after 500 years and could live for 1,000 years. Upon [[death]], their [[spirits]] entered the [[earth]] and became amber.<br> | + | {{Wiki|Tigers}} also [[symbolize]] longevity because the {{Wiki|ancient}} {{Wiki|Chinese}} believed {{Wiki|tigers}} turned white after 500 years and could live for 1,000 years. Upon [[death]], their [[spirits]] entered the [[earth]] and became {{Wiki|amber}}.<br> |
An example of a charm displaying a [[tiger]] can be seen at the [[Five Poisons]].<br> | An example of a charm displaying a [[tiger]] can be seen at the [[Five Poisons]].<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| The {{Wiki|Chinese}} for "toad" is pronounced chanchu (蟾蜍), sometimes shortened to just [[chan]] (蟾).<br> | | The {{Wiki|Chinese}} for "toad" is pronounced chanchu (蟾蜍), sometimes shortened to just [[chan]] (蟾).<br> | ||
In some {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|dialects}} the pronunciation of "toad" ([[chan]]) is very similar to that for "coin" (qian 钱).<br> | In some {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|dialects}} the pronunciation of "toad" ([[chan]]) is very similar to that for "coin" (qian 钱).<br> | ||
− | Liu Hai and the Three-Legged Toad is a story involving a play on these similar-sounding words.<br> | + | [[Liu]] Hai and the Three-Legged Toad is a story involving a play on these similar-sounding words.<br> |
See also entry for {{Wiki|frog}}.<br> | See also entry for {{Wiki|frog}}.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
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| Twelve {{Wiki|Imperial}} [[Symbols]]<br> | | Twelve {{Wiki|Imperial}} [[Symbols]]<br> | ||
| According to the {{Wiki|ancient}} [[Book]] of [[Rites]] (liji 礼记), twelve is the number of [[Heaven]]. Therefore, there are Twelve {{Wiki|Imperial}} [[Symbols]], also known as Twelve [[Symbols]] of {{Wiki|Imperial}} Authority, associated with the [[emperor]] who is the Son of [[Heaven]].<br> | | According to the {{Wiki|ancient}} [[Book]] of [[Rites]] (liji 礼记), twelve is the number of [[Heaven]]. Therefore, there are Twelve {{Wiki|Imperial}} [[Symbols]], also known as Twelve [[Symbols]] of {{Wiki|Imperial}} Authority, associated with the [[emperor]] who is the Son of [[Heaven]].<br> | ||
− | The twelve [[symbols]] include the {{Wiki|sun}} (sometimes represented as a three-legged bird in a red disk); the [[moon]] (sometimes represented as a {{Wiki|rabbit}} or hare in a green-white disk); {{Wiki|stars}} (sometimes represented by the "big dipper" [[constellation]] or simply three small circles); [[mountains]] ([[symbolizing]] stability and "[[earth]]" of the [[five elements]]); a pair of five-clawed [[dragons]] (representing {{Wiki|beasts}}); a pheasant (representing birds); the fu (黻) [[symbol]] which looks like back-to-back bows and [[symbolizes]] "[[good and evil]]" (and is also the alleged source of the [[yin yang]] [[symbol]]); the axe head (fu 斧) ([[symbolizing]] the power to make decisions and punish); a pair of goblets (representing "metal" of the [[five elements]]); grain or millet (representing "[[wood]]" of the [[five elements]]); aquatic grass (representing "[[water]]" of the [[five elements]]); and red flames (representing "[[fire]]" of the [[five elements]]).<br> | + | The twelve [[symbols]] include the {{Wiki|sun}} (sometimes represented as a three-legged bird in a [[red]] disk); the [[moon]] (sometimes represented as a {{Wiki|rabbit}} or hare in a green-white disk); {{Wiki|stars}} (sometimes represented by the "big dipper" [[constellation]] or simply three small circles); [[mountains]] ([[symbolizing]] stability and "[[earth]]" of the [[five elements]]); a pair of five-clawed [[dragons]] (representing {{Wiki|beasts}}); a pheasant (representing birds); the [[fu]] (黻) [[symbol]] which looks like back-to-back [[bows]] and [[symbolizes]] "[[good and evil]]" (and is also the alleged source of the [[yin yang]] [[symbol]]); the axe head ([[fu]] 斧) ([[symbolizing]] the power to make decisions and punish); a pair of goblets (representing "metal" of the [[five elements]]); grain or millet (representing "[[wood]]" of the [[five elements]]); aquatic grass (representing "[[water]]" of the [[five elements]]); and [[red]] flames (representing "[[fire]]" of the [[five elements]]).<br> |
The famous {{Wiki|Chinese}} writer {{Wiki|Lu Xun}} (鲁迅) incorporated the "Twelve [[Symbols]]" into a design intended to be the national {{Wiki|emblem}} and which was also used on a {{Wiki|Chinese}} coin. | The famous {{Wiki|Chinese}} writer {{Wiki|Lu Xun}} (鲁迅) incorporated the "Twelve [[Symbols]]" into a design intended to be the national {{Wiki|emblem}} and which was also used on a {{Wiki|Chinese}} coin. | ||
|- | |- | ||
| [[Unicorn]]<br> | | [[Unicorn]]<br> | ||
({{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Unicorn]])<br> | ({{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Unicorn]])<br> | ||
− | | The {{Wiki|qilin}} (麒 麟) or {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[unicorn]] represents [[good luck]] , {{Wiki|prosperity}}, goodwill and [[benevolence]].<br> | + | | The {{Wiki|qilin}} ([[麒]] 麟) or {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[unicorn]] represents [[good luck]] , {{Wiki|prosperity}}, [[goodwill]] and [[benevolence]].<br> |
It is described as having a deer's [[body]], an ox's tail, {{Wiki|fish}} scales, five-toed hoofed feet and a horn on its head.<br> | It is described as having a deer's [[body]], an ox's tail, {{Wiki|fish}} scales, five-toed hoofed feet and a horn on its head.<br> | ||
The {{Wiki|qilin}} is associated with [[sages]] and {{Wiki|excellent}} rulers, and is believed to appear when a new [[Wikipedia:Sage (sophos|sage]] is born as was the case with {{Wiki|Confucius}}. (See {{Wiki|Confucian}} Charms).<br> | The {{Wiki|qilin}} is associated with [[sages]] and {{Wiki|excellent}} rulers, and is believed to appear when a new [[Wikipedia:Sage (sophos|sage]] is born as was the case with {{Wiki|Confucius}}. (See {{Wiki|Confucian}} Charms).<br> | ||
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A charm showing a {{Wiki|qilin}} delivering a boy child can be viewed at Pendant Charms.<br> | A charm showing a {{Wiki|qilin}} delivering a boy child can be viewed at Pendant Charms.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Vase or Bottle | + | | [[Vase]] or Bottle |
− | | A picture of a bottle or vase can represent the meaning of "[[peace]]" or "safety" because both the [[character]] for vase (ping 瓶) and that for [[peace]] ( pingan 平安) are pronounced ping.<br> | + | | A picture of a bottle or [[vase]] can represent the meaning of "[[peace]]" or "safety" because both the [[character]] for [[vase]] (ping 瓶) and that for [[peace]] ( pingan [[平安]]) are pronounced ping.<br> |
− | A vase (ping 瓶) with [[flowers]] from all four seasons (siji 四季) conveys the hidden meaning of [[peace]] for all the year (sijipingan 四 季平 安).<br> | + | A [[vase]] (ping 瓶) with [[flowers]] from all four seasons (siji 四季) conveys the hidden meaning of [[peace]] for all the year (sijipingan 四 季平 安).<br> |
|- | |- | ||
| [[Wikipedia:Domestic Asian Water buffalo|Water Buffalo]] (Ox)<br> | | [[Wikipedia:Domestic Asian Water buffalo|Water Buffalo]] (Ox)<br> | ||
| The ox is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | | The ox is one of the [[twelve animals]] of the [[Chinese zodiac]].<br> | ||
− | A charm with the inscription in [[Daoist]] [[magic]] [[writing]], displaying an ox and a star [[god]] (star official), may be seen at [[Daoist]] ([[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]]) Charms.<br> | + | A charm with the inscription in [[Daoist]] [[magic]] [[writing]], displaying an ox and a [[star]] [[god]] ([[star]] official), may be seen at [[Daoist]] ([[Wikipedia:Taoism|Taoist]]) Charms.<br> |
A charm showing a boy riding an ox which represents the early [[humble]] beginnings of [[Emperor]] Tai Zu of the {{Wiki|Ming Dynasty}} may be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms with Coin Inscriptions.<br> | A charm showing a boy riding an ox which represents the early [[humble]] beginnings of [[Emperor]] Tai Zu of the {{Wiki|Ming Dynasty}} may be seen at {{Wiki|Chinese}} Charms with Coin Inscriptions.<br> | ||
Because of their importance to {{Wiki|agriculture}}, the [[water]] [[buffalo]] or ox (niu 牛) [[symbolizes]] springtime, harvest and {{Wiki|fertility}}.<br> | Because of their importance to {{Wiki|agriculture}}, the [[water]] [[buffalo]] or ox (niu 牛) [[symbolizes]] springtime, harvest and {{Wiki|fertility}}.<br> | ||
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|- | |- | ||
| Willow<br> | | Willow<br> | ||
− | | The willow (liu 柳) is associated with the [[life]] of [[scholars]] and poets who drew inspiration while strolling among them.<br> | + | | The willow ([[liu]] 柳) is associated with the [[life]] of [[scholars]] and poets who drew inspiration while strolling among them.<br> |
− | Its branches were considered [[magical]] and were used in exorcisms and in "sweeping tombs" during the Qingming {{Wiki|Festival}} (清明节) also known as "{{Wiki|Festival}} of the Tombs". On this day, young men also wore green willow branches in their [[hair]] in the [[belief]] that it would prevent them from being changed into a brown {{Wiki|dog}} in a {{Wiki|future}} [[existence]].<br> | + | Its branches were considered [[magical]] and were used in exorcisms and in "sweeping tombs" during the Qingming {{Wiki|Festival}} (清明节) also known as "{{Wiki|Festival}} of the Tombs". On this day, young men also wore [[green]] willow branches in their [[hair]] in the [[belief]] that it would prevent them from being changed into a brown {{Wiki|dog}} in a {{Wiki|future}} [[existence]].<br> |
Because of similarity in pronunciation to the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] "to part" (li 离), willow branches also represent parting and [[sorrow]] since they were [[traditionally]] given to friends departing for distant lands.<br> | Because of similarity in pronunciation to the {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[word]] "to part" (li 离), willow branches also represent parting and [[sorrow]] since they were [[traditionally]] given to friends departing for distant lands.<br> | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | [[Writing]] Brush and Silver Ingot<br> | + | | [[Writing]] Brush and {{Wiki|Silver}} Ingot<br> |
| To express the {{Wiki|hope}} that "things will certainly go according to your wishes", a charm can have the {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters (如意) for "as you wish" but may also depict a [[writing]] brush and a {{Wiki|silver}} ingot or sycee (细 丝) (a saddle-shaped {{Wiki|silver}} ingot used for [[money]] in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]]).<br> | | To express the {{Wiki|hope}} that "things will certainly go according to your wishes", a charm can have the {{Wiki|Chinese}} characters (如意) for "as you wish" but may also depict a [[writing]] brush and a {{Wiki|silver}} ingot or sycee (细 丝) (a saddle-shaped {{Wiki|silver}} ingot used for [[money]] in {{Wiki|ancient}} [[China]]).<br> | ||
This is because the characters for "brush" (bi 笔) and "ingot" (ding 锭) said together are "bi ding" which is the same pronunciation as the characters 必定 (bi ding) for "certainly". | This is because the characters for "brush" (bi 笔) and "ingot" (ding 锭) said together are "bi ding" which is the same pronunciation as the characters 必定 (bi ding) for "certainly". | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | Yinyang ([[Taiji]])<br> | + | | [[Yinyang]] ([[Taiji]])<br> |
| [[Yin Yang]] ([[阴]] [[阳]]) is the {{Wiki|Chinese}} term for the basic polarities of the [[universe]], e.g. male/female, light/dark, strong/weak, etc.<br> | | [[Yin Yang]] ([[阴]] [[阳]]) is the {{Wiki|Chinese}} term for the basic polarities of the [[universe]], e.g. male/female, light/dark, strong/weak, etc.<br> | ||
The "supreme [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]]" [[symbol]], known as [[taiji]] (太极), is a circle with an S-shaped curve separating it into two {{Wiki|equal}} halves. One half represents [[yin]] and the other half represents [[yang]]. In the center of each half is a small circle which represents the other half.<br> | The "supreme [[Wikipedia:Absolute (philosophy)|ultimate]]" [[symbol]], known as [[taiji]] (太极), is a circle with an S-shaped curve separating it into two {{Wiki|equal}} halves. One half represents [[yin]] and the other half represents [[yang]]. In the center of each half is a small circle which represents the other half.<br> |
Latest revision as of 17:31, 5 January 2024
Differences between Chinese Coins and Chinese Charms
Most old Chinese coins have an inscription of four Chinese characters to identify the historical time of their casting and their monetary value.
Most Chinese charms also have four (or more) Chinese character inscriptions but the inscription is not meant to identify when the charm was made or its monetary value (which is none). Instead, the inscription is either an auspicious desire, such as for good luck, good fortune, good health, success in the imperial examinations or business, etc., or a wish to avert misfortune from evil ghosts and spirits.
(For additional information on Chinese charm inscriptions, please see Guide to Reading Chinese Characters (Symbols) on Charms and English Translation of Chinese Charm Inscriptions.)
More importantly, and unlike Chinese coins, most Chinese charms also depict a variety of objects meant to enhance the inscriptions with rich symbolic meanings.
Visual and Spoken Puns
One of the peculiarities of the Chinese language is that it has a very large number of written characters but a much smaller number of spoken sounds. As a result, many Chinese characters share the same pronunciation, i.e. are homonyms.
The charms of the Ming (1368 - 1644 AD) and Qing (Ch'ing) (1644 - 1911 AD) dynasties, in particular, frequently took advantage of this characteristic. The charms may use depictions of animals, plants and other objects to substitute for other words because of their
similarity in pronunciation, even though they may not have any other relationship to what is being expressed. This is what I mean by a hidden or implied meaning or visual pun, and what the Chinese refer to as auspicious or lucky pictures (jixiangtuan 吉祥图 案). A more technical term would be a rebus.
Chinese Symbols and Their Meanings
Since a fundamental difference between old Chinese coins and charms has to do with the use of symbols, a basic understanding of the language of the symbols is needed to fully appreciate Chinese charms. Listed below, in alphabetical order, is a comprehensive list of objects that include those which have become symbols because of their similar pronunciation to auspicious Chinese words. Also included are other objects frequently seen on charms which have become symbols due to mythology, history or cultural associations.
Apple |
An apple can be a visual pun for peace because the Chinese word for apple (pingguo 苹果) and the word for peace ( pingan 平安) are both pronounced ping. A persimmon (shi 柿) paired with an apple (pingguo 苹果) forms the rebus "may your matters (shi 事) be safe ( pingan 平安)". |
Apricot |
An apricot grove, or field of apricots, is a symbol for success in the imperial examination system because the very first celebration honoring successful candidates allegedly took place in an apricot grove. |
Axe (axe head) |
The axe (fu 斧) has the same pronunciation as "happiness" (fu 福) and as a weapon symbolizes power and the ability to punish. The axe head is also one of the Twelve Imperial Symbols. |
Bamboo |
Bamboo symbolizes the ideals of a Confucian scholar because both are perceived as upright, strong and resilient while still being gentle, graceful and refined.
|
Bat |
A picture of a bat (fu 蝠) can be a visual pun for "good fortune" or happiness (fu 福) because both characters are pronounced fu. Often the bat is shown flying upside down because the character (dao 倒) for "upside-down" and the character (dao 到) meaning "to have arrived" are both pronounced dao. Therefore, if a person were to say "the bat is flying upside down" a listener could just as easily hear this as "happiness has arrived" which, of course, has a very auspicious connotation. (View charms with"upside down" bat and eight treasures, Zhong Kui, Zhong Kui, Liu Hai, and deer.)
Bats live in caves which represent portals to the beyond. |
Bear |
The bear (xiong 熊) is not often depicted on Chinese charms and amulets but it is a powerful animal that the Chinese believe can invoke fear in evil spirits just as well as humans. However, the bear is sometimes shown with an eagle because eagle or hawk (ying 鹰) and bear (xiong 熊) together sound just like the word "hero" (yingxiong 英雄). |
Boar |
See entry for pig below.
|
Bran |
Bran (wheat bran) is an auspicious fertility symbol at marriages because its pronunciation (fu zi 麸子) sounds the same as "rich son" (fu zi 富子) thus representing the wish that the couple will produce children who will become wealthy. |
Buddha's Hand |
See entry for citron below. |
Butterfly
|
The butterfly is a symbol of long life because the second character in butterfly (hudie 蝴蝶) has exactly the same pronounciation as the character 耋 (die) which means "70 or 80 years of age". |
Cabbage
|
The cabbage (baicai 白菜 or qingcai 清菜) is a symbol for wealth because it has the same pronunciation as the word "money" or "wealth" (cai 财). |
Calamus (Sweet Flag)
|
Calamus (chang pu 菖蒲), also known as "sweet flag", is a plant with long and stiff leaves which resemble swords. Since swords provide protection, hanging calamus above gates and doors is believed to help protect from evil spirits, disease and misfortune. |
Carp
|
The carp fish is a commonly seen visual pun because the Chinese character for carp (li 鲤) is pronounced the same as both the character (li 利) for "profit" and the character (li 力) for "strength" or "power". The carp is also a symbol for an abundance of children because it produces many eggs.
|
Cassia (Cinnamon) |
The cassia is an evergreen plant with bright yellow flowers that is sometimes incorrectly referred to as Chinese cinnamon.
See also "Cassia and Orchid" Charm.
|
Castanets |
A symbol that resembles an "X" is sometimes found on Chinese charms. This is actually a pair of wooden clappers or castanets crossed one over the other.
|
Cat |
The cat (mao 猫) symbolizes wishes for a long life because it has the same pronunciation as the word for an 80 year old or "octogenarian" (mao 耄).
|
Chestnut
|
The Chinese word for chestnut (lizi 栗子) sounds exactly like saying "establishing" (li 立) "sons" or "children" (zi 子) and therefore is a good luck symbol for creating a family. The Chinese refer to the eight-sided holes found on many Tang and Song Dynasty coins as flower or chestnut holes.
|
Chopsticks | Chopsticks (kuai zi 筷子) symbolize the hope for newlyweds to have children quickly because the pronunciation is the same as "fast" (kuai 快) "sons" (zi 子). (See Chinese Marriage.) |
Chime Stone
|
The chime stone (qing 磬) was a percussion musical instrument in ancient China. Each chime stone was flat and shaped similar to a chevron. A small hole at the top center allowed the stone to be hung from a frame. The musical instrument consisted of a set of 8 to 24 of these chime stones with each tuned to a different pitch. When struck with a mallet the chime stone produced a musical sound. Since many chime stones were made of jade, the chime stone also symbolizes wealth and riches.
|
Chrysanthemum
|
The chrysanthemum signifies the tenth month of the lunar calendar. The chrysanthemum, one of the Four Gentlemen, blooms late and in facing the winter symbolizes people who maintain their virtue despite adversity and temptation.
|
Cicada
|
The cicada is a symbol of rebirth and immortality because after surviving underground for a long period of time it emerges and flies into the sky. |
Citron or Buddha's Hand
|
The citron is a bright yellow lemon-like fruit with a thick rind and long finger-like tendrils. Because it resembles the familiar hand position of the Buddha, the citron has the auspicious Chinese name of foshou (佛手) which literally means "Buddha's Hand". The name foshou sounds very similar to the words fu (福 happiness) and shou (寿 longevity) and therefore the citron is a symbol for "happiness and longevity".
|
Clouds
|
Clouds, sometimes referred to as "auspicious clouds" (xiangyun 祥云), represent the heavens and also "good luck" because the Chinese word for cloud (yun 云) is pronounced the same as yun (运) meaning "luck" or "fortune". Its form often resembles the auspicious shape of the lingzhi "fungus of immortality".
|
Coin
|
Chinese coins are a potent symbol of wealth and prosperity. The coin is one of the "Eight Treasures".
|
Coral
|
Coral (shanhu 珊瑚) is included as one of the Eight Treasures and symbolizes longevity and official promotion. As a symbol of longevity, the Chinese have traditionally believed that coral represents an "iron tree" (tieshu 铁树) that grew under the sea and blossomed only once every hundred years.
Red coral is considered particularly auspicious because the Chinese believe the color red signifies good luck, good fortune, and happiness. (See ribbons and fillets for more about the color red.) |
Crab |
The Chinese word for crab (蟹) and the Chinese word for harmony (协) are both pronounced xie. The crab symbol is sometimes used on charms which express a desire for peace such as the large tian xia tai ping (天 下太平) charm shown at Peace Coins and Charms.
|
Crane |
The crane (he 鹤) is believed by the Chinese to live to a very old age and therefore is a symbol of longevity. The crane's white feathers also represent old age.
(Nowadays, the "crane" is humorously referred to as the "national bird of China". In this case, however, the "crane" refers to the large machines used to lift heavy objects to the top of buildings as part of China's major construction boom!) |
Cypress
|
Because the Chinese word for cypress (bai 柏) is pronounced the same as the word for "one hundred" (bai 百), the cypress is frequently paired with other symbols to express "many" or "everything". Cypress leaves were used in traditional Chinese weddings. |
Date
|
The date fruit or Chinese jujube (zao 枣) conveys the meaning that something is going to happen soon because it has the same pronunciation as the word for "early" or "soon" (zao 早).
|
Deer |
Deer are among the most frequently seen animals on charms. The Chinese character for deer is 鹿 which is pronounced lu. The Chinese character 禄, which refers to the salary a government official receives, is also pronounced lu. A picture of a deer is therefore expressing a wish for a top government office with a high salary.
The Chinese believe the deer lives to a very great age and, as a result, has become a symbol for long life.
|
Dog |
The dog (gou 狗) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. |
Door Gods |
The Door Gods are images of two warriors, Shen Tu and Yu Lei, which are hung on gates or doors to protect against evil spirits and misfortune.
|
Dragon
|
The dragon (long 龙) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. The dragon is believed to live in the mountains or in the seas and can fly into the heavens.
Dragon charms with two dragons may be seen at: Open Work Charms and Auspicious Inscriptions. |
Dragonfly
|
The dragonfly (qingting 蜻蜓) represents the Confucian ideal of pureness of character because its pronunciation is similar to the word for "pure" or "clear" (qing 清). The dragonfly also symbolizes the season of summer. |
Ducks (Mandarin Ducks) |
Mandarin ducks (yuanyang 鸳鸯 or xi 鸂) are believed to mate for life and, therefore, a pair of mandarin ducks symbolize fidelity, conjugal affection, peace and prosperity. |
Dumplings (jiaozi)
|
Chinese dumplings (with meat or vegetable stuffing) symbolize wealth or riches because they are boat-shaped and thus resemble the silver ingots or sycee used in ancient China as money. The word dumpling (jiaozi 饺子) has the same pronunciation as the first paper money (jiaozi 交子) used in China which was during the early Song Dynasty.
|
Eagle (Hawk) |
The eagle or hawk (ying 鹰) symbolizes a "hero" (yingxiong 英雄) because the pronunciation is the same. See also entry for bear above. |
Egret
|
See entry for heron below. |
Eight (8) |
The number eight (ba 八) is the most auspicious number because its pronunciation, particularly in southern dialects, is very similar to "prosper" or "wealth" (fa cai 发财). |
Eight Immortals |
The Eight Immortals (八仙) are eight daoists who have attained immortality and include: 1) Han Zhongli (汉钟离), also known as Zhongli Quan (锺离权), was a Han Dynasty general and is usually shown carrying a feather fan which he uses to revive the dead. |
Eight Treasures |
The "Eight Treasures" (babao 八宝), also known as the "Eight Precious Things" and the "Eight Auspicious Treasures", may consist of eight ordinary symbols, the eight precious organs of the Buddha's body, the eight auspicious signs, or the various emblems of the eight Taoist Immortals. The most commonly seen members of the Eight Treasures include the coin, ruyi sceptre, coral, chime stone, lozenge, rhinoceros horn, silver ingot and the flaming pearl. In Buddhism, the Eight Treasures (Eight Auspicious Symbols) include the lotus (purity/enlightenment), Wheel of the Dharma (knowledge), treasure vase (wealth), conch shell (Buddha's thoughts), victory banner (Buddha's teachings conquer all), endless knot (harmony), parasol (protection) and fish pair (happiness in marriage). |
Elephant |
The elephant is considered an auspicious animal because the Chinese character for "elephant" (xiang 象) has the same pronunciation as the Chinese word for "auspicious" or "lucky" (xiang 祥). The elephant is sometimes shown carrying a "treasure" vase (bao ping 宝瓶) on its back. Since the word "vase" (ping 瓶) has the same pronunciation as the word for "peace" (pingan 平 安), the implied meaning is "may you have 'good luck' (elephant) and 'peace' (vase)". |
Fish |
The Chinese character for fish (yu 鱼) is pronounced the same as the Chinese character for "abundance" or "surplus" (yu 余). The fish symbol is, therefore, frequently associated with other symbols and Chinese characters to symbolize the wish for "more" in the sense of "more" good luck, good fortune, long life and children. (Please see images at Ancient Chinese Fish Charms and Chinese Open Work Charms.) As an example, to express the wish for "having more happiness year after year" a charm may use the Chinese character 年 (nian) for year, and also include a picture of a fish, a lotus and a magpie. The fish (yu 鱼) represents "more" (yu 余). The character 莲 for lotus and the character 连 meaning "in succession or one after another", as in expressing year after year, are both pronounced lian . The magpie (xi que 喜鹊) is pronounced the same as happiness . So the fish, lotus, magpie and the Chinese character 年 (year) together would have the implied meaning of "more" "happiness" "year after year". |
Five Blessings (Happinesses, Good Fortunes) |
According to the ancient Chinese classic the "Book of History" (shujing 书经 or shangshu 尚书), also known as the "Classic of History", there are "Five Blessings" (wufu 五福), also known as the "Five Happinesses" or "Five Good Fortunes", which refer to longevity (shou 寿), wealth (fu 富), health and composure (kangning 康宁), virtue (xiu hao de 修好德), and the desire to die a natural death in old age (lao zhong ming 考 终命). Popular among the Chinese people is another set of "five blessings" which consists of good fortune (fu 福), government official salary (lu 禄), longevity (shou 寿), joy (xi 喜) and valuables or property (cai 财). |
Five Poisons |
The five poisons (五毒), also known as the "Five Poisonous Creatures", refer to five poisonous animals which usually include the snake, scorpion, centipede, toad and spider. Sometimes, the lizard replaces the spider. |
Fly Whisk |
The fly whisk is a simple tool used to swat or sweep away flies. The "fly whisk" became a symbol associated with certain Daoist (Taoist) immortals and Buddhist deities which was used to "sweep away" ignorance. |
Four Blessings |
The "four blessings" (si fu 四福) are happiness (xi 喜), salary of a high official (lu 禄), longevity (shou 寿), and good luck (good fortune) (fu 福). |
Four Divine Creatures |
The Four Divine Creatures, also known as the Four Heraldic Animals, Four Directional Animals, and Four Symbols (si xiang 四象), symbolize the four directions and an associated season as follows: Vermillion (Red) Bird (zhuque 朱雀) south and summer; White Tiger (baihu 白虎) west and autumn; Azure Dragon (qinglong 青龙) east and spring; black tortoise coiled around by a snake known as the Black Tortoise (Black Warrior) (xuanwu 玄武) north and winter. (See also entries for "Tortoise" and "Snake" below) A coin displaying the four directions and the 28 mansions associated with the Four Divine Creatures may be seen at Chinese Astronomy Coins. |
Four Gentlemen or Four Plants of Virtue |
The Four Gentlemen (sijunzi 四君子), also known as the Four Plants of Virtue, include the plum, orchid, bamboo and chrysanthemum. Each of these plants represents one of the seasons. The orchid represents spring. The bamboo represents summer. The chrysanthemum represents autumn and the plum represents winter. |
Four Happiness Boys |
A picture of two boys joined in a clever way to give the illusion that there are four boys. This "good luck" picture is frequently given to newlyweds with the wish that they will have many children. The story and history is explained at "Four Happiness Boys". |
Four Happinesses |
The "Four Happinesses" (si fu 四蝠) comes from a poem by Hong Mai (洪迈 1123-1202) of the Song Dynasty: 1) "Sweet rain after a long drought" (jiu han feng gan yu 久旱逢甘雨) |
Frog |
The frog (wa 蛙) is a symbol of fertility because it has the same pronunciation as the word for baby (wa 娃). See also entry for toad. |
Fu Lu Shou |
Fu Lu Shou refers to the three Chinese deities of the God of Happiness (Fu), the God of Prosperity (Lu), and the God of Longevity (Shou). A "Fu Lu Shou" charm may be seen at Lock Charms. |
Fungus (Lingzhi) (Fungus of Immortality) |
Lingzhi (灵芝), also known as the glossy ganoderma, is the sacred fungus of immortality that grows on the trunks or roots of trees including the pine. The lingzhi does not decay like other fungus but instead becomes woody and thus can survive for a long time. For this reason, it has become associated with longevity. |
Goat |
The goat is a reference to an ancient myth, discussed at Five Goat Coin, concerning a great famine in Guangzhou (Canton), Guangdong Province. Please also see entry for sheep below. |
God of Examinations (Star of Literature) |
Kuixing (魁星) is known as the God of Examinations or the Star of Literature. He was considered to have been influential in helping candidates pass the imperial civil service examinations. He is depicted as an ugly man (sometimes as a dwarf) with short horns, and holding a writing brush in his right hand and a scholar's hat (or peck measure) in his left. He is usually standing on the head of a large fish or a mythical turtle known as ao (鳌). |
God of Happiness (Fu), God of Luck, God of Good Fortune and Blessings |
Fu (福), which means good luck, fortune, blessings and happiness, refers to the "God of Happiness" who was originally a heavenly star known as the "Lucky Star" (fuxing 福星). He is also known as the "God of Good Fortune and Blessings" and as the "God of Luck". Early Taoism (Daoism) had three gods known as the "Three Officials" (sanguan 三官) or "Three Immortals". One was named the "Heavenly Official who grants fortune" tianguancifu (天官赐福) and it was he who later became better known as the "God of Happiness". |
God of Longevity (Shou) |
Shou (寿), also referred to as Shou Lao (寿老), the "Old Immortal of the South Pole" (nanjixianweng 南极仙翁), and the "Longevity Star" (shouxing 寿星), is the God of Longevity and is usually shown as a smiling old gentleman with a prominent forehead who holds a walking stick and carries a peach (tao 桃). As his name implies, Shou symbolizes a long life. Longevity was important to Confucians because they believed that wisdom came with age. |
God of Prosperity (Lu), God of Rank and Emolument |
Lu (禄), also known as the God of Prosperity, the God of Rank and Emolument, and the God of High Ranking Office, is usually shown holding a ruyi (如 意) which was originally a short sword with a sword-guard used for self-defense or gesturing but now symbolizes good wishes ("may things go as you wish") and prosperity. He is a member of the Three Officials, also known as the Three Immortals. He was originally a heavenly star known as the "Prosperity Star" (luxing 禄星) and was believed to govern a person's success in a career. |
God of Thunder (Lei Gong) |
The God of Thunder (Lei Shen 雷神), also known as the Duke of Thunder (Lei Gong 雷 公), is the Daoist god responsible for punishing humans who have committed certain crimes and evil spirits which have harmed humans. He uses a drum to create thunder. |
God of War (Guan Di or Guan Gong) |
Guan Di (关帝), also known as Guan Gong (关公), is the Daoist God of War. His real name was Guan Yu (关羽). |
God of Wealth (Cai Shen) |
The God of Wealth (caishen 财神) is a very popular Chinese deity whose presence is thought to ensure wealth and success. He is depicted with a long beard and wearing either an official's gown or military dress. He is usually shown holding or being surrounded by symbols of wealth such as coins, ingots, coral, etc. He is often shown holding a sword in his right hand raised above his head and wearing a distinctive hat with ear flaps. He is sometimes depicted as riding a black tiger. A bamboo tally with an image of Cai Shen may be seen at Bamboo Tallies. |
Gods of Peace and Harmony (Hehe erxian) |
These twin laughing immortals are known as the Gods of Peace and Harmony, the Gods of Unity and Harmony, Hehe erxian (和合二仙), the Laughing Twins and the Gods of Mirth. One twin is named Shi De (拾得) who usually holds a lotus. The other twin is Han Shan (寒山) who may hold a round box, ruyi sceptre, gourd, coin, persimmon, etc. |
Goldfish |
The goldfish (jinyu 金鱼) is a symbol for wealth because its first character (jin 金) means "gold" and its second character (yu) sounds like jade (yu 玉). Goldfish also symbolize abundant wealth because the first character (jin) means gold and the second character (yu) has the same pronunciation as the word for "abundance" or "surplus" (yu 余). |
Gourd |
The gourd is popular as a charm symbol to ward off evil spirits and disease because its first character (hulu 葫芦) has the same pronunciation as the word to "protect" or "guard" (hu 护) and also the word for "blessing" (hu 祜). In some dialects, the Chinese word for gourd (hulu 葫 芦) sounds the same as fulu (福 禄) which means "happiness and rank (as in attaining a high government office)". |
Halberd |
The halberd (ji 戟) is an ancient Chinese infantry weapon consisting of a shaft with a spear and/or crescent-shaped blade on one end. The Chinese word for "halberd" (ji 戟) and the Chinese word for "lucky" or "auspicious" (吉) are both pronounced ji. A halberd is a visual pun or rebus for "lucky" as can be see on an old seal script charm at Auspicious Inscriptions. |
Heron (Egret) |
The heron or egret can represent a "path" or "way" because the Chinese word lu (鹭) has the same pronunciation as road or path (lu 路). The heron or egret (lu 鹭) can also symbolize wealth because the pronunciation is the same as an "official's salary" (lu 禄). |
Horse |
The horse (ma 马) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac and symbolizes speed, power and perseverance. The horse is usually depicted as the bearer of good things. For example, a galloping horse with several scrolls (the Yellow River Diagrams) tied on its back represents the bringing of the origins of Chinese culture to the legendary Chinese leader Fuxi. |
Kitchen God (Zaojun) | Zaojun (灶 君), also known as Zaowang (灶王), is the popular "Kitchen God" or "Stove God" in charge of the household whose image is found in almost all traditional Chinese homes. Please see The Chinese House for a more detailed discussion of Zaojun. |
Lion |
The lion is considered to be a brave and intelligent animal and thus symbolizes power and majesty. The Chinese word for lion (shi 狮) has the same pronunciation and can be a visual pun or rebus for "teacher", "master", "tutor" or "preceptor" (shi 师). For this reason, the lion can symbolize a high government official because in ancient times there existed a "Senior Grand Tutor" (tai shi 太师) and a "Junior Preceptor" (shao shi 少 师). |
Liu Hai and Three-Legged (Golden) Toad |
Liu Hai (刘海) is one of the most popular members of the Chinese pantheon of charm Taoist (Daoist) figures and represents prosperity and wealth. For detailed information concerning Liu Hai and the Three-Legged (Golden) Toad please see the entry for "toad" below and also the web page Liu Hai. |
Longevity Stone |
Longevity Stones are strange-shaped rocks that are often shown next to the fungus of immortality at the bottom of charms. They convey the meaning of "long life" because of their age. |
Lotus |
Because the Buddha is often depicted as seated on a lotus, the lotus is considered a sacred Buddhist symbol (one of Eight Auspicious Symbols) representing purity and detachment from worldly cares. The lotus signifies the seventh month of the lunar calendar. |
Lozenge |
A lozenge (fang sheng 方胜) is one of the Eight Treasures and is considered a lucky object although the actually origin is still unclear. It has a diamond shape and two lozenges are frequently interlocked to represent the form of an ancient musical instrument. |
Magpie |
A magpie (xi que 喜 鹊) is frequently used to symbolize "happiness" because the first character xi is the same word as happy (xi 喜). If the magpie is shown upside down, it means happiness has "arrived" because the Chinese words for "upside down" (倒) and "arrived" (到) are both pronounced dao. Two magpies facing each other symbolize "double happiness" (shuang xi 喜喜). (See charm at Coin Inscriptions.) |
Mirror |
Mirrors in China symbolize good fortune and are believed to protect against evil spirits. Traditional marriage gifts included a bronze mirror (tongjing 铜镜) and shoes (xie 鞋) because the words combined express "together and in harmony" (tongxie 同谐). |
Money Tree |
The Chinese "money tree" (yao qian shu 摇钱树) is a legendary tree from which coins fall down when shaken. The legends, history, archaeological discoveries and images of money trees are discussed in detail at Chinese Money Trees and Xian Numismatic Museum. |
Monkey |
The monkey (hou 猴) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. The monkey is frequently seen as a visual pun for the Chinese inscription ma shang feng hou (马上风猴) where a monkey is shown riding on a horse. The first two characters of the inscription (ma shang) mean "on the horse" but also mean "at once". The third character (feng ) means "wind" (breeze) but the Chinese for "to grant a title" is also pronounced feng (封). The fourth character (hou) means "monkey" but another character with the same pronunciation (hou 侯) means "a marquis (i.e. a high official)". Therefore the picture of a monkey on a horse is a visual pun or rebus for the wish for an immediate promotion in official rank. |
Moon |
For a comprehensive discussion of the relationship of the moon, dragon, star, and cloud symbols please visit Charm Symbols: Star, Moon, Cloud and Dragon A "moon" or "crescent" is a symbol sometimes found on old Chinese coins. |
Mountain |
Mountains (shan 山) are the places closest to the gods and because of their expanse and heights covey the meaning of limitless. |
Mugwort (Artemisia Leaf) |
The mugwort (ai 艾), also known as artemisia leaf, is one of a larger group of objects which can be a member of the Eight Treasures. It is a symbol for longevity because of its medicinal properties. |
Narcissus |
Narcissus (shuixian 水仙) literally means "water immortal". The flower is therefore a symbol for an immortal. |
Nine (9) |
The number nine (9) is considered lucky because the Chinese character for nine (jiu 九) has the same pronunciation as the word "forever" (jiu 久). |
Nine (9) Similitudes |
The "nine similitudes" is a reference from the "Book of Odes" (shijing 诗经) which is the earliest collection of Chinese poetry and includes poems, songs and hymns from the Zhou Dynasty (1046-771 BC) and the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). The "nine similitudes" is now used as a greeting or felicitous wish translated as follows: "May you be as the mountains and the hills, as the greater and the lesser heights, as the streams which flow in all directions, having the constancy of the moon, like the rising sun, with the longevity of the southern mountain and the green luxuriance of the fir and the cypress." |
Onion |
The onion (cong 葱) is a visual pun for intelligence because it has the same pronunciation as the word for "intelligent" or "clever" (congming 聪明). |
Orange |
Oranges symbolize riches and good fortune because of their gold color. Also, the chinese character for the orange is ju (桔) which is composed of mu (木), meaning "tree", and ji (吉) meaning "lucky or auspicious". The two components of the character therefore imply that the orange is a "good luck" fruit. |
Orchid |
The orchid is one of the Four Gentlemen and stands for humility, modesty, beauty and refinement. See also "Cassia and Orchid" Charm. |
Osmanthus |
An osmanthus blossom (gui 桂) can mean "honor" or "precious" because it has the same pronunciation as the word "valuable" or "precious" (gui 贵). |
Ox |
See entry for water buffalo. |
Peach | The peach (tao 桃) signifies the second month of the lunar calendar. The peach symbolizes marriage, spring, justice and especially Daoist immortality (longevity). |
Peacock |
The peacock symbolizes beauty and dignity as well as the desire for peace and prosperity. The ancient Chinese believed that one glance from a peacock could make a woman pregnant. |
Peanut |
The peanut (huasheng 花生) is an auspicious symbol because its second character (sheng 生) means to "give birth". The peanut thus symbolizes the wish for many children. |
Pearl (flaming pearl) |
Dragons are often depicted as chasing a "pearl" like jewel object. The pearl may be thought of as a metaphor for perfection and enlightenment, particularly if the dragon represents the emperor. The pearl also resembles the moon. |
Peony |
The tree peony or mudan (牡丹) signifies the third month of the lunar calendar and symbolizes longevity, loyalty, happiness and eternal beauty. Because of the way it sometimes grows as doubles, the peony appears to the Chinese like strings of cash coins and thus has come to symbolize prosperity and wealth. |
Persimmon |
The persimmon (shi 柿) is auspicious because of its round shape and brilliant orange color. The persimmon is used as a visual pun (rebus) because it has the same pronunciation as the word for "matters, affairs or events" (shi 事) and also the word for an "official" or "gentleman" (shi 仕). |
Phoenix (fenghuang) |
The Chinese phoenix is a mythical bird known as the fenghuang (凤 凰) in Chinese. Unlike the phoenix of the West, the Chinese phoenix does not have the connotation of a bird rising from ashes. |
Pig (Boar) (Hog) |
The pig or boar (zhu 猪) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac and traditionally symbolized the prosperity and good fortune of a family that could afford such a quality food source. An old Chinese custom was to have young male children wear hats and shoes in the shape of a pig. Chinese parents believed this would avoid misfortune since the evil spirits would be fooled into thinking the child was actually a pig. |
Pine |
The pine tree (song 松) is a very common symbol for longevity because it is an evergreen and can endure severe winters. The pine is a member of the Three Friends in Winter. |
Plum | The plum (mei 梅) signifies the first month of the lunar calendar. The plum symbolizes courage and hope because it blossoms first and bravely stands against the dangers of winter. |
Pomegranate |
The pomegranate (shiliu 石榴) signifies the sixth month of the lunar calendar and, because of its many seeds, represents fertility, offspring and descendants. For this reason, the pomegranate is an important symbol in Chinese marriages. |
Pumpkin |
Pumpkin (nangua 南 瓜) sounds like "boy" (nan 男) and symbolizes the wish for sons. |
Quail |
The quail (anchun 鹌鹑) signifies courage because of its fighting spirit. The quail can also represent poverty. |
Rabbit (Hare) |
The rabbit (tuzi 兔子) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. The rabbit symbolizes longevity because of the Taoist (Daoist) legend of the "moon hare" that lives on the moon making the elixir of immortality. |
Ram |
See entry for sheep below. |
Rat |
The rat (laoshu 老鼠) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. The rat symbolizes fertility, abundance and wealth because of its reproductive abilities. |
Reed Pipe |
A reed pipe (sheng 笙) has the hidden meaning of "to give birth" because it has the same pronunciation as the Chinese word "to give birth" (sheng 生). A reed pipe (sheng 笙) can also mean "to rise" or be promoted continually one rank after another because it shares the same pronunication as the word "to rise" (sheng 升). |
Rhinoceros Horns |
A single or pair of rhinoceros horns (xijiao 犀角) is usually included as one of the Eight Treasures. Rhino horns symbolize happiness because the first character (xi 犀) is pronounced the same as the character for happiness (xi 喜). Charms with rhinoceros horns may be viewed at Eight Treasures and Auspicious Inscriptions. |
Ribbons and fillets |
Chinese symbols are frequently shown wrapped in ribbons which are also referred to as fillets. These ribbons add importance to the power of the object they surround. The ribbons can be thought of as rays or auras emanating from the object and symbolizing miraculous powers. The Chinese for ribbon is dai (带) which also has another meaning of "to carry". Another Chinese character with the same pronunciation (dai 代) means "generations". When the ribbon is shown connecting two or more auspicious objects, the hidden meaning of the ribbon therefore is "to carry along (good luck, good fortune, etc.) for generations". |
Rooster |
The rooster or cock is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. Roosters are believed to be able to scare away demons. |
Ruyi or Sceptre |
The ruyi (如意), considered one of the Eight Treasures, was a sceptre which represented power and authority. The ruyi was originally a short sword with a sword-guard used for self-defense or gesturing. There is some speculation that it may have evolved from a back scratcher. |
Saddle |
A horse saddle (an 鞍) is a symbol for "peace" (an 安) because the pronunciation of the two words is the same. |
Sheep |
The sheep, ram or goat (yang 羊) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. The sheep (yang) has the same pronunciation and therefore symbolizes the male principle yang in Yin Yang (阴 阳) and also the "sun" (yang 阳). |
Shoes |
Shoes can symbolize wealth because their shape is similar to silver ingots (sycee). Shoes (xie 鞋), because of identical pronunciation, are used in combination with other objects to express "in harmony with" (xie 谐) or "together with" (xie 偕). |
Shrimp |
Shrimp (虾) are considered to be auspicious because the pronunciation in Mandarin (xia) and Cantonese (ha) is very similar to the sound of people laughing (ha ha ha). |
Silver Ingots (s ycee) | Silver became a measure of value during the Yuan Dynasty (1280 - 1368 AD) and therefore represents wealth. The silver was moulded into boat-shaped or shoe-shaped ingots called sycee (细 丝) which could weigh from 1 to 100 ounces. |
Six (6) |
The number six (6) is considered lucky because the Chinese character for six (liu 六) has a similar pronunciation to the word "prosperity" (lu 禄). The number six (6), in its more formal written form (liu 陆), coincidentally has exactly the same pronunciation as prosperity (lu 禄) when the character is used in a different context (lu 陆) such as a surname. |
Snake |
The snake (she 蛇) is a member of the Chinese zodiac and also a member of the "Five Poisons". In ancient times, snakes were believed to mate with with tortoises. |
Spider |
The spider (zhizhu 蜘蛛) is one of the five poisonous animals known as the "five poisons". Contrary to what one might expect, the "five poisons" are a good thing in that they are believed to counteract pernicious influences by combating poison with poison. |
Star |
For a comprehensive discussion of the relationship of the star, moon, cloud, and dragon symbols please visit Charm Symbols: Star, Moon, Cloud and Dragon. "Stars" or dots are sometimes found on ancient Chinese coins and examples may be seen at Emergence of Chinese Charms. |
Star Gods |
The three Star Gods consist of the "lucky star" (fuxing 福星), the "prosperity star" (luxing 禄星) and the "longevity star" (shouxing 寿星). These gods evolved into Fu (God of Happiness), Lu (God of Prosperity) and Shou (God of Longevity). |
Stork |
The stork (guan 鹳) is believed to live 1,000 years and is therefore a symbol of longevity. The stork is frequently shown together with pine trees which are another symbol of longevity. |
Swallow |
The swallow (yan 燕) is associated with springtime and thus represents the coming of good fortune and prosperous change. Swallows are seen as bringing "new" to "old" because they, in effect, make "repairs" by building their mud nests in the cracks of walls and graves. |
Swastika |
The swastika is a very old Asian symbol. The swastika symbol in China represents the Chinese character wan (万) meaning "ten-thousand". The extended meaning of wan (万) is "all" such as "the myriad things" as used in the Dao De Jing (道德经), the classic Taoist (Daoist) text written by Lao-zi (老子). |
Sword |
Immortals and gods use swords to cut through ignorance and evil. The sword is the symbol of Lu Dongbin (吕 洞宾), one of the Eight Immortals, and symbolizes victory over evil. |
Teapot |
A teapot or pot (hu 壶) can convey the meaning of "to protect" (hu 护) or "blessing" (hu 祜) because the characters share the same pronunciation. |
Ten Symbols of Longevity |
The "Ten Symbols of Longevity" or "Ten Longevities" (shi shou 十寿) consist of the pine tree (song 松), sun (ri 日), crane (he 鹤), water (shui 水), mountains (shan 山), clouds (yun 云), deer (lu 鹿), tortoise (gui 龟), fungus of immortality (lingzhi 灵 芝), and bamboo (zhu 竹). All are traditional Chinese symbols representing a long life. |
Three Abundances |
The Three Abundances (sanduo 三多), also known as the Three Plenties, consists of the peach (symbolizing longevity), the pomegranate (symbolizing descendants or progeny) and the citron (symbolizing happiness and longevity). |
Three Friends in Winter | Because they all can flourish during the winter, the pine, plum tree and bamboo are known as the Three Friends in Winter. |
Three Many |
The "Three Many" refers to the desire for more happiness, longevity and children/grandchildren. |
Three Officials (Three Immortals) |
The Three Officials, also known as the Three Immortals, include the God of Happiness (Fu), the God of Prosperity (Lu) and the God of Longvevity (Shou). A "Three Immortals" charm may be seen at Ancient Chinese Lock Charms. |
Three Rounds |
The Three Rounds refers to any grouping of three round objects. The Chinese word for "round" (yuan 圆) is pronounced the same as the word for "first" (yuan 元). In this case, "first" refers to being the top scholar in the imperial examination system. With the addition of the number "three" (san 三), the meaning is to come in first in all three of the examinations. |
Tiger (leopard) |
The tiger (hu 虎) is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac and is considered the ruler of the beasts on Earth as opposed to the dragon which rules the beasts in the sky and heavens. The word for tiger (hu) is also a pun because it has the same pronunciation as the word "protect" (hu 护). |
Toad |
The Chinese for "toad" is pronounced chanchu (蟾蜍), sometimes shortened to just chan (蟾). In some Chinese dialects the pronunciation of "toad" (chan) is very similar to that for "coin" (qian 钱). |
Tortoise |
The tortoise (gui 龟) has a long life-span and is, therefore, a natural symbol for longevity. The tortoise also represents strength and endurance. |
Treasure Bowl |
The Chinese "treasure bowl" (ju bao pen 聚宝盆), also known as the "treasure basin", is a magical container which can create unlimited riches. By placing a gold coin inside the "treasure bowl", for example, the bowl will suddenly be filled with gold coins. Treasure bowl stories can be traced back to ancient times. |
Twelve Imperial Symbols |
According to the ancient Book of Rites (liji 礼记), twelve is the number of Heaven. Therefore, there are Twelve Imperial Symbols, also known as Twelve Symbols of Imperial Authority, associated with the emperor who is the Son of Heaven. The twelve symbols include the sun (sometimes represented as a three-legged bird in a red disk); the moon (sometimes represented as a rabbit or hare in a green-white disk); stars (sometimes represented by the "big dipper" constellation or simply three small circles); mountains (symbolizing stability and "earth" of the five elements); a pair of five-clawed dragons (representing beasts); a pheasant (representing birds); the fu (黻) symbol which looks like back-to-back bows and symbolizes "good and evil" (and is also the alleged source of the yin yang symbol); the axe head (fu 斧) (symbolizing the power to make decisions and punish); a pair of goblets (representing "metal" of the five elements); grain or millet (representing "wood" of the five elements); aquatic grass (representing "water" of the five elements); and red flames (representing "fire" of the five elements). |
Unicorn |
The qilin (麒 麟) or Chinese unicorn represents good luck , prosperity, goodwill and benevolence. It is described as having a deer's body, an ox's tail, fish scales, five-toed hoofed feet and a horn on its head. |
Vase or Bottle | A picture of a bottle or vase can represent the meaning of "peace" or "safety" because both the character for vase (ping 瓶) and that for peace ( pingan 平安) are pronounced ping. A vase (ping 瓶) with flowers from all four seasons (siji 四季) conveys the hidden meaning of peace for all the year (sijipingan 四 季平 安). |
Water Buffalo (Ox) |
The ox is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac. A charm with the inscription in Daoist magic writing, displaying an ox and a star god (star official), may be seen at Daoist (Taoist) Charms. |
Willow |
The willow (liu 柳) is associated with the life of scholars and poets who drew inspiration while strolling among them. Its branches were considered magical and were used in exorcisms and in "sweeping tombs" during the Qingming Festival (清明节) also known as "Festival of the Tombs". On this day, young men also wore green willow branches in their hair in the belief that it would prevent them from being changed into a brown dog in a future existence. |
Writing Brush and Silver Ingot |
To express the hope that "things will certainly go according to your wishes", a charm can have the Chinese characters (如意) for "as you wish" but may also depict a writing brush and a silver ingot or sycee (细 丝) (a saddle-shaped silver ingot used for money in ancient China). This is because the characters for "brush" (bi 笔) and "ingot" (ding 锭) said together are "bi ding" which is the same pronunciation as the characters 必定 (bi ding) for "certainly". |
Yinyang (Taiji) |
Yin Yang (阴 阳) is the Chinese term for the basic polarities of the universe, e.g. male/female, light/dark, strong/weak, etc. The "supreme ultimate" symbol, known as taiji (太极), is a circle with an S-shaped curve separating it into two equal halves. One half represents yin and the other half represents yang. In the center of each half is a small circle which represents the other half. |
Zhenwu |
The Daoist god Zhenwu (真武), also known as the Perfected Warrior, evolved over the centuries from Xuanwu (玄 武) which was a tortoise encircled by a snake that represented the north. (See also entry for Four Divine Creatures.) Zhenwu is associated with healing and protection. |