Difference between revisions of "Chinese dragon" - New World Encyclopedia

From New World Encyclopedia
({{Contracted}})
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Claimed}}{{Contracted}}
+
{{Claimed}}{{Started}}{{Contracted}}
 
[[Category:Politics and social sciences]]
 
[[Category:Politics and social sciences]]
 
[[Category:Anthropology]]
 
[[Category:Anthropology]]
  
{| border="1" width="270" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" align="right" style="margin-left:10px;"
+
[[Image:Ancient-china.gif|270px|thumb|Chinese dragon]]
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" bgcolor="#CCCCCC" | Chinese Dragon
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" | [[Image:Ancient-china.gif|270px|Chinese dragon]]
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" |  '''[[Chinese language|Chinese]] name'''
 
|-
 
| [[Traditional Chinese]]
 
| 龍
 
|-
 
| [[Simplified Chinese]]
 
| 龙
 
|-
 
| [[Standard Mandarin|Mandarin]] [[Pinyin]]
 
| Lóng
 
|-
 
| [[Cantonese (linguistics)|Cantonese]] [[Jyutping]]
 
| Lùhng
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" | '''[[Japanese language|Japanese]] name'''
 
|-
 
| [[Kanji]]
 
| 龍/竜
 
|-
 
| [[Hiragana]]
 
| りゅう or たつ
 
|-
 
| [[Romaji]]
 
| ryū or tatsu
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" | '''[[Vietnamese language|Vietnamese]] name'''
 
|-
 
| [[Vietnamese alphabet|Quốc Ngữ]]
 
| rồng, long
 
|-
 
| [[Hán tự]]
 
| 龍
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" | '''[[Korean language|Korean]] name'''
 
|-
 
| [[Hangul]]
 
| 룡/용
 
|-
 
| [[Hanja]]
 
| 龍
 
|-
 
| [[Revised Romanization of Korean|Revised Romanization]]
 
| Lyong/Yong
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" align="center" | '''[[Thai language|Thai]] name'''
 
|-
 
| In Thai Script
 
|  มังกรจีน
 
|-
 
| Romanization
 
| mangkorn jihn
 
|}
 
  
 
The '''Chinese dragon''' (spelled '''Long''', '''Loong''' or '''Lung''' in transliteration), is a [[Mythology|mythical]] [[China|Chinese]] creature that also appears in other [[East Asia]]n cultures, and is also sometimes called the ''Oriental (or Eastern) dragon''. Depicted as a long, snake-like creature with four claws, in contrast to the Western dragon which stands on two legs and which is usually portrayed as evil, it has long been a potent symbol of auspicious power in [[Chinese folklore]] and [[Chinese art|art]].
 
The '''Chinese dragon''' (spelled '''Long''', '''Loong''' or '''Lung''' in transliteration), is a [[Mythology|mythical]] [[China|Chinese]] creature that also appears in other [[East Asia]]n cultures, and is also sometimes called the ''Oriental (or Eastern) dragon''. Depicted as a long, snake-like creature with four claws, in contrast to the Western dragon which stands on two legs and which is usually portrayed as evil, it has long been a potent symbol of auspicious power in [[Chinese folklore]] and [[Chinese art|art]].
Line 66: Line 9:
 
The dragon is also the embodiment of the concept of [[yin and yang|yang]] (male) and associated with the weather as the bringer of rain and water in general. Its female counterpart is the [[Chinese phoenix]].
 
The dragon is also the embodiment of the concept of [[yin and yang|yang]] (male) and associated with the weather as the bringer of rain and water in general. Its female counterpart is the [[Chinese phoenix]].
  
Many [[Chinese people]] often use the term "'''Descendants of the Dragon'''" (龍的傳人) as a sign of ethnic identity. The term was first coined by Taiwanese musician Yi De-jian ([[:zh:侯德建]]) in the late 1970s, and subsequently popularised by the song of the same name.
+
Many [[Chinese people]] often use the term "'''Descendants of the Dragon'''" (龍的傳人) as a sign of ethnic identity. The term was first coined by Taiwanese musician Yi De-jian ([[:zh:侯德建]]) in the late 1970s, and subsequently popularised by the song of the same name.  
  
The dragon is sometimes used in the [[West]] as a [[national emblem]] of [[China]]. However, this usage within both the [[People's Republic of China]] and the [[Republic of China]] on [[Taiwan]] is rare. Firstly, the dragon was hisorically the [[symbol]] of the [[Emperor of China]], and was on the [[List of Chinese flags#Historical|national flag]] of the late [[Qing Dynasty]]. These monarchist connotations run counter to modern Chinese ideologies. Secondly, the dragon has aggressive, [[war]]like connotations that the [[People's Republic of China|Chinese government]] wishes to avoid. It is for these reasons that the [[giant panda]] is far more often used within [[China]] as a national emblem than the dragon. In [[Hong Kong]], however, the dragon is part of the design of [[Brand Hong Kong]], a symbol used to promote Hong Kong as an international brand name<ref>[http://www.brandhk.gov.hk/brandhk/eview.htm "Brand Overview"], Brand Hong Kong, 09-2004. Retrieved on 23-02-2007.</ref>.
+
The dragon is sometimes used in the [[West]] as a [[national emblem]] of [[China]]. However, this usage within both the [[People's Republic of China]] and the [[Republic of China]] on [[Taiwan]] is rare. Firstly, the dragon was hisorically the [[symbol]] of the [[Emperor of China]], and was on the [[List of Chinese flags#Historical|national flag]] of the late [[Qing Dynasty]]. These monarchist connotations run counter to modern Chinese ideologies. Secondly, the dragon has aggressive, [[war]]like connotations that the Chinese government wishes to avoid. It is for these reasons that the [[giant panda]] is far more often used within China as a national emblem than the dragon. In [[Hong Kong]], however, the dragon is part of the design of [[Brand Hong Kong]], a symbol used to promote Hong Kong as an international brand name<ref>[http://www.brandhk.gov.hk/brandhk/eview.htm "Brand Overview"], Brand Hong Kong, 09-2004. Retrieved on 23-02-2007.</ref>.
  
 
The dragon commands much respect in the [[Chinese culture]]. It is a [[taboo]] to disfigure a depiction of a dragon; for example, an [[advertisement]] campaign commissioned by [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]], which featured the [[United States|American]] [[basketball]] player [[LeBron James]] slaying a dragon (as well as beating up an old [[Kung Fu]] master), was immediately censored by the [[People's Republic of China|Chinese government]] after public outcry over disrespect.
 
The dragon commands much respect in the [[Chinese culture]]. It is a [[taboo]] to disfigure a depiction of a dragon; for example, an [[advertisement]] campaign commissioned by [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]], which featured the [[United States|American]] [[basketball]] player [[LeBron James]] slaying a dragon (as well as beating up an old [[Kung Fu]] master), was immediately censored by the [[People's Republic of China|Chinese government]] after public outcry over disrespect.
Line 76: Line 19:
 
==Dragon worship==
 
==Dragon worship==
 
===Origin===
 
===Origin===
[[Image:龍-seal.svg|frame|right|The ancient [[seal script]] form of the character for "dragon" that is now written 龍 or 龙 and pronounced ''lóng'' in Mandarin.]]
+
[[Image:300px-龍-seal.svg.png|thumb|right|200 px|The ancient seal script form of the character for "dragon" that is now written 龍 or 龙 and pronounced ''lóng'' in Mandarin.]]
There is no consensus on the origin of the Chinese dragon, but many scholars agree that it came from [[totem]]s of different tribes in [[China]]. Some have suggested that it comes from a stylized depiction of existing animals, such as snakes, fish, or crocodiles. For example, the [[Banpo]] site of the [[Yangshao culture]] in [[Shaanxi]] featured an elongated, snake-like fish motif. Archaeologists believe the "long fish" to have evolved into images of the Chinese dragon. The association with fish is reflected in the legend of a [[carp]] that saw the top of a mountain and decided he was going to reach it. He swam upstream, climbing rapids and waterfalls letting nothing get in the way of his determination. When he reached the top there was the mythical "Dragon Gate" and when he jumped over he became a dragon. Several waterfalls and cataracts in [[China]] are believed to be the location of the Dragon Gate. This legend is used as an allegory for the drive and effort needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
+
There is no consensus on the origin of the Chinese dragon, but many scholars agree that it came from [[totem]]s of different tribes in [[China]]. Some have suggested that it comes from a stylized depiction of existing animals, such as snakes, fish, or crocodiles. For example, the [[Banpo]] site of the [[Yangshao culture]] in [[Shaanxi]] featured an elongated, snake-like fish motif. Archaeologists believe the "long fish" to have evolved into images of the Chinese dragon. The association with fish is reflected in the legend of a [[carp]] that saw the top of a mountain and decided he was going to reach it. He swam upstream, climbing rapids and waterfalls letting nothing get in the way of his determination. When he reached the top there was the mythical "Dragon Gate" and when he jumped over he became a dragon. Several waterfalls and cataracts in China are believed to be the location of the Dragon Gate. This legend is used as an allegory for the drive and effort needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
  
 
An alternative view, advocated by He Xin, is that the early dragon depicted a species of crocodile. Specifically, ''Crocodilus porosis'', an ancient, giant crocodile. The crocodile is known to be able to accurately sense changes in air pressure, and be able to sense coming rain. This may have been the origin of the dragon's mythical attributes in controlling the weather, especially the rain. In addition, there is evidence of crocodile worship in ancient [[Babylon]]ian, [[India]]n, and [[Maya civilization|Mayan]] civilizations. The association with the crocodile is also supported by the view in ancient times that large crocodiles are a variety of dragon. For example, in the ''Story of Zhou Chu'', about the life of a [[Jin Dynasty (265-420)|Jin Dynasty]] warrior, he is said to have killed a "dragon" that infested the waters of his home village, which appears to have been a crocodile.
 
An alternative view, advocated by He Xin, is that the early dragon depicted a species of crocodile. Specifically, ''Crocodilus porosis'', an ancient, giant crocodile. The crocodile is known to be able to accurately sense changes in air pressure, and be able to sense coming rain. This may have been the origin of the dragon's mythical attributes in controlling the weather, especially the rain. In addition, there is evidence of crocodile worship in ancient [[Babylon]]ian, [[India]]n, and [[Maya civilization|Mayan]] civilizations. The association with the crocodile is also supported by the view in ancient times that large crocodiles are a variety of dragon. For example, in the ''Story of Zhou Chu'', about the life of a [[Jin Dynasty (265-420)|Jin Dynasty]] warrior, he is said to have killed a "dragon" that infested the waters of his home village, which appears to have been a crocodile.
Line 95: Line 38:
 
{{main|Dragon King}}
 
{{main|Dragon King}}
  
Chinese dragons are strongly associated with water in popular belief. They are believed to be the rulers of moving bodies of water, such as waterfalls, rivers, or seas. They can show themselves as water spouts ([[tornado]] or twister over water). In this capacity as the rulers of water and weather, the dragon is more [[anthropomorphic]] in form, often depicted as a humanoid, dressed in a king's costume, but with a dragon head wearing a king's headdress.  
+
Chinese dragons are strongly associated with water in popular belief. They are believed to be the rulers of moving bodies of water, such as waterfalls, rivers, or seas. They can show themselves as water spouts ([[tornado]] or twister over water). In this capacity as the rulers of water and weather, the dragon is more [[anthropomorphic]] in form, often depicted as a humanoid, dressed in a king's costume, but with a dragon head wearing a king's headdress.  
  
 
There are four major [[Dragon Kings]], representing each of the four seas: the East Sea (corresponding to the [[East China Sea]]), the South Sea (corresponding to the [[South China Sea]]), the West Sea (sometimes seen as the [[Indian Ocean]] and beyond), and the North Sea (sometimes seen as [[Lake Baikal]]).
 
There are four major [[Dragon Kings]], representing each of the four seas: the East Sea (corresponding to the [[East China Sea]]), the South Sea (corresponding to the [[South China Sea]]), the West Sea (sometimes seen as the [[Indian Ocean]] and beyond), and the North Sea (sometimes seen as [[Lake Baikal]]).
  
Because of this association, they are seen as "in charge" of water-related weather phenomenon. In premodern times, many Chinese villages (especially those close to rivers and seas) had temples dedicated to their local "dragon king"In times of drought or flooding, it was customary for the local gentry and government officials to lead the community in offering sacrifices and conducting other religious rites to appease the dragon, either to ask for rain or a cessation thereof.
+
Because of this association, they are seen as "in charge" of water-related weather phenomenon. In premodern times, many Chinese villages (especially those close to rivers and seas) had temples dedicated to their local "dragon king." In times of drought or flooding, it was customary for the local gentry and government officials to lead the community in offering sacrifices and conducting other religious rites to appease the dragon, either to ask for rain or a cessation thereof.
  
 
The King of [[Wuyue|Wu-Yue]] in the [[Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms]] period was often known as the "[[Dragon King]]" or the "Sea Dragon King" because of his extensive hydro-engineering schemes which "tamed" the seas.
 
The King of [[Wuyue|Wu-Yue]] in the [[Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms]] period was often known as the "[[Dragon King]]" or the "Sea Dragon King" because of his extensive hydro-engineering schemes which "tamed" the seas.
Line 106: Line 49:
 
[[Image:LongPao.JPG|thumbnail|right|An imperial robe from the [[Qing Dynasty]]]]
 
[[Image:LongPao.JPG|thumbnail|right|An imperial robe from the [[Qing Dynasty]]]]
  
At the end of his reign, the first legendary Emperor [[Huang Di]] was said to have been immortalized into a dragon that resembled his emblem, and ascended to Heaven. Since the Chinese consider Huang Di as their ancestor, they sometimes refer to themselves as "''the descendants of the dragon''". This legend also contributed towards the use of the Chinese dragon as a symbol of [[Imperial China|imperial]] power.  
+
At the end of his reign, the first legendary Emperor [[Huang Di]] was said to have been immortalized into a dragon that resembled his emblem, and ascended to Heaven. Since the Chinese consider Huang Di as their ancestor, they sometimes refer to themselves as "''the descendants of the dragon''." This legend also contributed towards the use of the Chinese dragon as a symbol of [[Imperial China|imperial]] power.  
  
 
The dragon, especially yellow or golden dragons with five claws on each foot, was a symbol for the emperor in many [[Chinese dynasties]]. The imperial throne was called the ''Dragon Throne''. During the late [[Qing Dynasty]], the dragon was even adopted as the [[List of Chinese flags#Historical|national flag]]. It was a capital offense for commoners to wear clothes with a dragon [[symbol]]. The dragon is featured in the carvings on the steps of imperial palaces and tombs, such as the [[Forbidden City]] in [[Beijing]].
 
The dragon, especially yellow or golden dragons with five claws on each foot, was a symbol for the emperor in many [[Chinese dynasties]]. The imperial throne was called the ''Dragon Throne''. During the late [[Qing Dynasty]], the dragon was even adopted as the [[List of Chinese flags#Historical|national flag]]. It was a capital offense for commoners to wear clothes with a dragon [[symbol]]. The dragon is featured in the carvings on the steps of imperial palaces and tombs, such as the [[Forbidden City]] in [[Beijing]].
Line 122: Line 65:
 
Dragons or dragon-like depictions have been found extensively in neolithic-period archaeological sites throughout [[China]]. The earliest depiction of dragons was found at [[Xinglongwa culture]] sites. [[Yangshao culture]] sites in [[Xi'an]] have produced clay pots with dragon motifs. The [[Liangzhu culture]] also produced dragon-like patterns. The [[Hongshan culture]] sites in present-day [[Inner Mongolia]] produced jade dragon amulets in the form of [[pig dragon]]s.
 
Dragons or dragon-like depictions have been found extensively in neolithic-period archaeological sites throughout [[China]]. The earliest depiction of dragons was found at [[Xinglongwa culture]] sites. [[Yangshao culture]] sites in [[Xi'an]] have produced clay pots with dragon motifs. The [[Liangzhu culture]] also produced dragon-like patterns. The [[Hongshan culture]] sites in present-day [[Inner Mongolia]] produced jade dragon amulets in the form of [[pig dragon]]s.
  
One such early form was the [[pig dragon]]. It is a coiled, elongated creature with a head resembling a [[boar]]<ref>[http://www.nga.gov/exhibitions/china1999/037_010.htm "Jade coiled dragon, Hongshan Culture (c. 4700-2920 B.C.E.)"], National Gallery of Art, Washington DC. Retrieved on 23-02-2007.</ref>. The character for "dragon" in the earliest [[Chinese character|Chinese writing]] has a similar coiled form, as do later [[jade]] dragon [[amulet]]s from the [[Shang Dynasty|Shang]] period.
+
One such early form was the [[pig dragon]]. It is a coiled, elongated creature with a head resembling a [[boar]]<ref>[http://www.nga.gov/exhibitions/china1999/037_010.htm "Jade coiled dragon, Hongshan Culture (c. 4700-2920 B.C.E..E.)"], National Gallery of Art, Washington DC. Retrieved on 23-02-2007.</ref>. The character for "dragon" in the earliest [[Chinese character|Chinese writing]] has a similar coiled form, as do later [[jade]] dragon [[amulet]]s from the [[Shang Dynasty|Shang]] period.
  
 
===Classical depictions===
 
===Classical depictions===
Line 153: Line 96:
 
The Chinese dragons have five [[toe]]s on each foot, [[Indonesia]]n or [[Korea]]n dragons have four, and the [[Japan]]ese dragons have three. To explain this phenomenon, Chinese legend states that all Imperial dragons originated in China, and the further away from China a dragon went the fewer toes it had. Dragons only exist in China, Korea, Indonesia, and Japan because if they traveled further they would have no toes to continue. The Japanese legend has a story similar to the Chinese one, namely that dragons originated in Japan, and the further they traveled the more toes they grew and as a result, if they went too far they would have too many toes to continue to walk properly.  
 
The Chinese dragons have five [[toe]]s on each foot, [[Indonesia]]n or [[Korea]]n dragons have four, and the [[Japan]]ese dragons have three. To explain this phenomenon, Chinese legend states that all Imperial dragons originated in China, and the further away from China a dragon went the fewer toes it had. Dragons only exist in China, Korea, Indonesia, and Japan because if they traveled further they would have no toes to continue. The Japanese legend has a story similar to the Chinese one, namely that dragons originated in Japan, and the further they traveled the more toes they grew and as a result, if they went too far they would have too many toes to continue to walk properly.  
  
Official interpretation back in the dynasty period: Five claws dragons are reserved for the emperors (five is the holy number in [[Five elements (Chinese philosophy)]], four claws dragon is reserved for kings, princes and certain high rank officials, three claws dragon are used by the general public(which is widely seen on China and other Chinese goods back in Ming dynasty). Since Korea and other nations only held the title of king (with respect to the emperor in china), they are only allowed to use four claw dragon. Inproper use of claw number is considered as a sign of rebellion, and will be punished heavily such as executions of whole clan.
+
Official interpretation back in the dynasty period: Five claws dragons are reserved for the emperors (five is the holy number in [[Five elements (Chinese philosophy)]], four claws dragon is reserved for kings, princes and certain high rank officials, three claws dragon are used by the general public(which is widely seen on China and other Chinese goods back in Ming dynasty). Since Korea and other nations only held the title of king (with respect to the emperor in china), they are only allowed to use four claw dragon. Inproper use of claw number is considered as a sign of rebellion, and will be punished heavily such as executions of whole clan.
  
 
Another interpretation: according to several sources, including historical official documents, ordinary Chinese dragons had four toes - but the Imperial Dragon had five. It was a capital offense for anyone - other than the emperor, his blood relatives, and the very few officials who were granted such an extraordinary privilege by the emperor - to use the five-clawed dragon [[motif (art)|motif]].  
 
Another interpretation: according to several sources, including historical official documents, ordinary Chinese dragons had four toes - but the Imperial Dragon had five. It was a capital offense for anyone - other than the emperor, his blood relatives, and the very few officials who were granted such an extraordinary privilege by the emperor - to use the five-clawed dragon [[motif (art)|motif]].  
Line 168: Line 111:
 
This is also why there are nine forms of the dragon and the dragon has nine children (see [[#Classical depictions|Classical depictions]] above). The "Nine Dragon Wall" is a screen wall with images of nine different dragons, and is found in imperial palaces and gardens. As nine was considered the number of the emperor, only the most senior officials were allowed to wear nine dragons on their robes - and then only with the robe completely covered with [[surcoat]]s. Lower-ranking officials had eight or five dragons on their robes, again covered with surcoats; even the emperor himself wore his dragon robe with one of its nine dragons hidden from view.
 
This is also why there are nine forms of the dragon and the dragon has nine children (see [[#Classical depictions|Classical depictions]] above). The "Nine Dragon Wall" is a screen wall with images of nine different dragons, and is found in imperial palaces and gardens. As nine was considered the number of the emperor, only the most senior officials were allowed to wear nine dragons on their robes - and then only with the robe completely covered with [[surcoat]]s. Lower-ranking officials had eight or five dragons on their robes, again covered with surcoats; even the emperor himself wore his dragon robe with one of its nine dragons hidden from view.
  
There are a number of places in [[China]] called "Nine Dragons", the most famous being [[Kowloon]] (in Cantonese) in [[Hong Kong]]. The part of the [[Mekong]] in Vietnam is known as ''[[Cửu Long]]'', with the same meaning.
+
There are a number of places in [[China]] called "Nine Dragons," the most famous being [[Kowloon]] (in Cantonese) in [[Hong Kong]]. The part of the [[Mekong]] in Vietnam is known as ''[[Cửu Long]]'', with the same meaning.
  
 
===Chinese zodiac===
 
===Chinese zodiac===
Line 176: Line 119:
  
 
===Constellations===
 
===Constellations===
The Azure Dragon - [[Azure Dragon (Chinese constellation)|Qing Long]] - 青龍 is considered to be the primary of the four [[Chinese constellation|celestial guardians]], the other three being the [[Vermilion Bird (Chinese constellation)|Zhu Que]] - 朱雀 (red [[bird]]), [[White Tiger (Chinese constellation)|Bai Hu]] - 白虎 (white [[tiger]]), [[Black Tortoise (Chinese constellation)|Xuan Wu]] - 玄武 (black [[tortoise]]-like creature). In this context, the Azure Dragon is associated with the East and the element of Wood.
+
The Azure Dragon - [[Azure Dragon (Chinese constellation)|Qing Long]] - 青龍 is considered to be the primary of the four [[Chinese constellation|celestial guardians]], the other three being the [[Vermilion Bird (Chinese constellation)|Zhu Que]] - 朱雀 (red [[bird]]), [[White Tiger (Chinese constellation)|Bai Hu]] - 白虎 (white [[tiger]]), [[Black Tortoise (Chinese constellation)|Xuan Wu]] - 玄武 (black [[tortoise]]-like creature). In this context, the Azure Dragon is associated with the East and the element of Wood.
 
{{see also|Five elements (Chinese philosophy)}}.
 
{{see also|Five elements (Chinese philosophy)}}.
  
Line 190: Line 133:
  
 
===Dragons and Tigers===
 
===Dragons and Tigers===
[[Tigers]] have always been an eternal rival to the dragon, thus various artworks depict a dragon and tiger fighting an epic battle. Although the Imperial dragon is infinitely more powerful than the tiger in myth, a well used [[Chinese idiom]] to describe equal rivals (often in sports nowadays) is "''Dragon versus Tiger''". In [[Chinese martial arts]], "''Dragon style''" is used to describe styles of fighting based more on understanding movement, while "''Tiger style''" is based on brute strength and memorization of techniques.
+
[[Tigers]] have always been an eternal rival to the dragon, thus various artworks depict a dragon and tiger fighting an epic battle. Although the Imperial dragon is infinitely more powerful than the tiger in myth, a well used [[Chinese idiom]] to describe equal rivals (often in sports nowadays) is "''Dragon versus Tiger''." In [[Chinese martial arts]], "''Dragon style''" is used to describe styles of fighting based more on understanding movement, while "''Tiger style''" is based on brute strength and memorization of techniques.
  
 
==Dragons in fiction==
 
==Dragons in fiction==
Line 206: Line 149:
 
*[[Dojo Kanojo Cho]] from [[United States|American]] animated series ''[[Xiaolin Showdown]]'' is a Chinese dragon with added arms.
 
*[[Dojo Kanojo Cho]] from [[United States|American]] animated series ''[[Xiaolin Showdown]]'' is a Chinese dragon with added arms.
 
*In the [[United States|American]] animated series ''[[American Dragon: Jake Long]]'', Jake's grandfather and dragon-master Lao Shi, is a Chinese dragon, who is strangely able to breathe fire like a Western dragon. Chinese dragons are rarely depicted as fire-breathers, though a few texts do include this.
 
*In the [[United States|American]] animated series ''[[American Dragon: Jake Long]]'', Jake's grandfather and dragon-master Lao Shi, is a Chinese dragon, who is strangely able to breathe fire like a Western dragon. Chinese dragons are rarely depicted as fire-breathers, though a few texts do include this.
* The eponymous [[Temeraire (series)|Temeraire]] is a "Celestial Dragon", of whom there are very few. They are capable of generating the "divine wind": a supernatural roar which can destroy buildings and ships.
+
* The eponymous [[Temeraire (series)|Temeraire]] is a "Celestial Dragon," of whom there are very few. They are capable of generating the "divine wind": a supernatural roar which can destroy buildings and ships.
*In the [[Harry Potter]] series, Chinese dragons are one of the few races of dragons, and are called "Chinese Fireballs". According to ''[[Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire]]'', Chinese Fireballs breathe fireballs instead of a continuous jet of flame.
+
*In the [[Harry Potter]] series, Chinese dragons are one of the few races of dragons, and are called "Chinese Fireballs." According to ''[[Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire]]'', Chinese Fireballs breathe fireballs instead of a continuous jet of flame.
  
  
Line 245: Line 188:
  
 
=== Prehistory ===
 
=== Prehistory ===
The Vietnamese dragon is the combined image of crocodile, snake, lizard and bird. Historically, Vietnamese people lived near rivers, so they venerated crocodiles as "Giao Long", the first kind of Vietnamese dragon.  
+
The Vietnamese dragon is the combined image of crocodile, snake, lizard and bird. Historically, Vietnamese people lived near rivers, so they venerated crocodiles as "Giao Long," the first kind of Vietnamese dragon.  
  
 
There are some kinds of dragons found on archaeological objects: crocodile-dragons (dragons with crocodile head and snake body). The cat-dragon excavated on a glazed terracotta piece in [[Bac Ninh]] has some features of [[Dai Viet]] period dragon: it does not have a crocodile head, its head is shorter and it has a long neck, its wing and backfin are long lines, and its whiskers and fur are found in the Dai Viet dragon image.
 
There are some kinds of dragons found on archaeological objects: crocodile-dragons (dragons with crocodile head and snake body). The cat-dragon excavated on a glazed terracotta piece in [[Bac Ninh]] has some features of [[Dai Viet]] period dragon: it does not have a crocodile head, its head is shorter and it has a long neck, its wing and backfin are long lines, and its whiskers and fur are found in the Dai Viet dragon image.
Line 261: Line 204:
 
=== [[Tran]] dynasty (1225–1400) ===
 
=== [[Tran]] dynasty (1225–1400) ===
  
The Tran dynasty dragon was similar to that of the [[Ly]] dynasty but looked more intrepid. The Tran dragon has new details: arms and horns. Its fiery crest is shorter. Its slightly curved body is fat and smaller toward the tail. There are many kinds of tail (straight and pointed tail, spiral tail) as well as many kinds of scale (a regular half-flower scale, slightly-curved scale).    
+
The Tran dynasty dragon was similar to that of the [[Ly]] dynasty but looked more intrepid. The Tran dragon has new details: arms and horns. Its fiery crest is shorter. Its slightly curved body is fat and smaller toward the tail. There are many kinds of tail (straight and pointed tail, spiral tail) as well as many kinds of scale (a regular half-flower scale, slightly-curved scale).  
  
 
The Tran dragon symbolised the [[martial arts]], because the Tran kings were descended from a [[Mandarin (bureaucrat)|Mandarin]] commander. The Vietnamese had to fight [[Mongol]] invaders in this age.
 
The Tran dragon symbolised the [[martial arts]], because the Tran kings were descended from a [[Mandarin (bureaucrat)|Mandarin]] commander. The Vietnamese had to fight [[Mongol]] invaders in this age.
Line 267: Line 210:
 
=== [[Le]] dynasty ===
 
=== [[Le]] dynasty ===
  
In this period, the Vietnamese dragon's image was influenced by the Chinese dragon, because of [[Confucianism]]'s expansion policy. Differing from those of the previous dynasty, dragons in this age are not only represented in a curved posture among clouds but also in others. These dragons were majestic, with lion-heads. Instead of a fiery crest, they have a large nose. Their bodies only curve in two sections. Their feet have five sharp claws.
+
In this period, the Vietnamese dragon's image was influenced by the Chinese dragon, because of [[Confucianism]]'s expansion policy. Differing from those of the previous dynasty, dragons in this age are not only represented in a curved posture among clouds but also in others. These dragons were majestic, with lion-heads. Instead of a fiery crest, they have a large nose. Their bodies only curve in two sections. Their feet have five sharp claws.  
  
 
=== [[Nguyen]] dynasty ===
 
=== [[Nguyen]] dynasty ===
  
(1802–1883) During the early part of Nguyen dynasty, the dragon is represented with a spiral tail and long fiery sword-fin. Dragon was personified, for example, by a mother with her children, the couple of dragons. Its head and eyes are large. It has stag horns, a lion's nose, exposed [[canine teeth]], regular flash scale, curved whiskers. Dragon images made for the King have 5 claws, others have 4 claws.
+
(1802–1883) During the early part of Nguyen dynasty, the dragon is represented with a spiral tail and long fiery sword-fin. Dragon was personified, for example, by a mother with her children, the couple of dragons. Its head and eyes are large. It has stag horns, a lion's nose, exposed [[canine teeth]], regular flash scale, curved whiskers. Dragon images made for the King have 5 claws, others have 4 claws.  
  
 
(1883-1945) In this later period the dragon image degenerated and became unrefined, losing its natural and majestic shape, and was seen as a signal of the decline in art of the last Vietnamese dynasty.  
 
(1883-1945) In this later period the dragon image degenerated and became unrefined, losing its natural and majestic shape, and was seen as a signal of the decline in art of the last Vietnamese dynasty.  
Line 286: Line 229:
 
"Rồng đến nhà tôm": "Dragon visits shrimp's house" – A saying used by a host to (or of) his guest: the host portrays himself as a humble shrimp and his guest as a noble dragon.
 
"Rồng đến nhà tôm": "Dragon visits shrimp's house" – A saying used by a host to (or of) his guest: the host portrays himself as a humble shrimp and his guest as a noble dragon.
  
"Ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo, làm như mèo mửa": "Eating as dragon scrolls, talking as dragon climbs, working as cat vomits" – A criticism of someone who eats too much and talks a lot, but is lazy.  
+
"Ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo, làm như mèo mửa": "Eating as dragon scrolls, talking as dragon climbs, working as cat vomits" – A criticism of someone who eats too much and talks a lot, but is lazy.  
  
 
[[Image:Mua-rong.jpeg|thumb|right|A [[Dong Ho]] painting of a dragon dance]]
 
[[Image:Mua-rong.jpeg|thumb|right|A [[Dong Ho]] painting of a dragon dance]]
Line 292: Line 235:
 
==Vietnamese place-names, and other things, named after dragons==
 
==Vietnamese place-names, and other things, named after dragons==
  
[[Ha Noi]] (Vietnamese: Hà Nội), the capital of [[Vietnam]], was anciently known as [[Thăng Long]] (from ''Thăng'', meaning "grow, develop, rise, fly" and ''Long'', meaning "dragon"), a name which is still used to refer to the capital in a poetic manner. In 1010, King [[Lý Thái Tổ]] moved the capital from [[Hoa Lư]] to [[Đại La]] for the reason written down in [[Chiếu dời đô]] (Royal proclamation of moving capital). He saw a Rồng vàng (yellow dragon) fly around on the clear blue sky, so he changed the name of Đại La to Thăng Long, meaning "Vietnam's bright and developed future"
+
[[Ha Noi]] (Vietnamese: Hà Nội), the capital of [[Vietnam]], was anciently known as [[Thăng Long]] (from ''Thăng'', meaning "grow, develop, rise, fly" and ''Long'', meaning "dragon"), a name which is still used to refer to the capital in a poetic manner. In 1010, King [[Lý Thái Tổ]] moved the capital from [[Hoa Lư]] to [[Đại La]] for the reason written down in [[Chiếu dời đô]] (Royal proclamation of moving capital). He saw a Rồng vàng (yellow dragon) fly around on the clear blue sky, so he changed the name of Đại La to Thăng Long, meaning "Vietnam's bright and developed future."  
  
 
Many place-names in Vietnam incorporate the word Long, or Rồng (also meaning dragon): [[Ha Long bay]] (vịnh Hạ Long), the section of the [[Mekong river]] flowing through Vietnam contains 9 branches and is called [[Cửu Long]] (meaning nine dragons); provinces: [[Vĩnh Long]], [[Long An]], [[Bến Nhà Rồng]] (where [[Ho Chi Minh]] started his journey to find out the guideline of national liberation); [[Thanh Hoa Bridge|Hàm Rồng]] bridge, [[Long Biên]] bridge. Other things named after dragons include: Thanh Long ([[dragonfruit]]), vòi rồng ([[waterspout]]), xương rồng ([[Cactaceae]]), long nhãn (dragon eyes: a kind of [[longan]] fruit).
 
Many place-names in Vietnam incorporate the word Long, or Rồng (also meaning dragon): [[Ha Long bay]] (vịnh Hạ Long), the section of the [[Mekong river]] flowing through Vietnam contains 9 branches and is called [[Cửu Long]] (meaning nine dragons); provinces: [[Vĩnh Long]], [[Long An]], [[Bến Nhà Rồng]] (where [[Ho Chi Minh]] started his journey to find out the guideline of national liberation); [[Thanh Hoa Bridge|Hàm Rồng]] bridge, [[Long Biên]] bridge. Other things named after dragons include: Thanh Long ([[dragonfruit]]), vòi rồng ([[waterspout]]), xương rồng ([[Cactaceae]]), long nhãn (dragon eyes: a kind of [[longan]] fruit).
Line 329: Line 272:
  
  
==See also==
 
{{commons}}
 
* [[Chinese mythology]]
 
* [[Chinese phoenix]]
 
* [[Dragon]]
 
* [[Dragon boat race]]
 
* [[Dragon dance]]
 
* [[Dragon Kung Fu]]
 
* [[Lion dance]]
 
* [[Zahhak|Persian dragon]]
 
* [[European dragon]]
 
* [[Japanese dragon]]
 
* [[Vietnamese dragon]]
 
* [[Korean dragon]]
 
* [[List of dragons in mythology and folklore]]
 
* [[Long Mu]] (Dragon's Mother)
 
* ''[[An Instinct for Dragons]]'', hypothesis about the origin of dragon myths.
 
  
  

Revision as of 16:53, 22 March 2007


Chinese dragon

The Chinese dragon (spelled Long, Loong or Lung in transliteration), is a mythical Chinese creature that also appears in other East Asian cultures, and is also sometimes called the Oriental (or Eastern) dragon. Depicted as a long, snake-like creature with four claws, in contrast to the Western dragon which stands on two legs and which is usually portrayed as evil, it has long been a potent symbol of auspicious power in Chinese folklore and art.

The dragon is also the embodiment of the concept of yang (male) and associated with the weather as the bringer of rain and water in general. Its female counterpart is the Chinese phoenix.

Many Chinese people often use the term "Descendants of the Dragon" (龍的傳人) as a sign of ethnic identity. The term was first coined by Taiwanese musician Yi De-jian (zh:侯德建) in the late 1970s, and subsequently popularised by the song of the same name.

The dragon is sometimes used in the West as a national emblem of China. However, this usage within both the People's Republic of China and the Republic of China on Taiwan is rare. Firstly, the dragon was hisorically the symbol of the Emperor of China, and was on the national flag of the late Qing Dynasty. These monarchist connotations run counter to modern Chinese ideologies. Secondly, the dragon has aggressive, warlike connotations that the Chinese government wishes to avoid. It is for these reasons that the giant panda is far more often used within China as a national emblem than the dragon. In Hong Kong, however, the dragon is part of the design of Brand Hong Kong, a symbol used to promote Hong Kong as an international brand name[1].

The dragon commands much respect in the Chinese culture. It is a taboo to disfigure a depiction of a dragon; for example, an advertisement campaign commissioned by Nike, which featured the American basketball player LeBron James slaying a dragon (as well as beating up an old Kung Fu master), was immediately censored by the Chinese government after public outcry over disrespect.

A number of Chinese proverbs and idioms also feature references to the dragon, for example: "Hoping one's son will become a dragon" (望子成龍, i.e. be as successful and powerful as a dragon).

Dragon worship

Origin

The ancient seal script form of the character for "dragon" that is now written 龍 or 龙 and pronounced lóng in Mandarin.

There is no consensus on the origin of the Chinese dragon, but many scholars agree that it came from totems of different tribes in China. Some have suggested that it comes from a stylized depiction of existing animals, such as snakes, fish, or crocodiles. For example, the Banpo site of the Yangshao culture in Shaanxi featured an elongated, snake-like fish motif. Archaeologists believe the "long fish" to have evolved into images of the Chinese dragon. The association with fish is reflected in the legend of a carp that saw the top of a mountain and decided he was going to reach it. He swam upstream, climbing rapids and waterfalls letting nothing get in the way of his determination. When he reached the top there was the mythical "Dragon Gate" and when he jumped over he became a dragon. Several waterfalls and cataracts in China are believed to be the location of the Dragon Gate. This legend is used as an allegory for the drive and effort needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

An alternative view, advocated by He Xin, is that the early dragon depicted a species of crocodile. Specifically, Crocodilus porosis, an ancient, giant crocodile. The crocodile is known to be able to accurately sense changes in air pressure, and be able to sense coming rain. This may have been the origin of the dragon's mythical attributes in controlling the weather, especially the rain. In addition, there is evidence of crocodile worship in ancient Babylonian, Indian, and Mayan civilizations. The association with the crocodile is also supported by the view in ancient times that large crocodiles are a variety of dragon. For example, in the Story of Zhou Chu, about the life of a Jin Dynasty warrior, he is said to have killed a "dragon" that infested the waters of his home village, which appears to have been a crocodile.

Others have proposed that its shape is the merger of totems of various tribes as the result of the merger of tribes. The coiled snake or dragon form played an important role in early Chinese culture. Legendary figures like Nüwa (女媧), Fuxi (伏羲) are depicted as having snake bodies. Some scholars report that the first legendary Emperor of China Huang Di (黃帝,Yellow Emperor) used a snake for his coat of arms. Every time he conquered another tribe, he incorporated his defeated enemy's emblem into his own. That explains why the dragon appears to have features of various animals.

There is no apparent connection to the western dragon.

The dragon as mythical creature

Non-imperial Chinese dragon in Shanghai.
Nine Dragon Screen, Datong (detail).

From its origins as totems or the stylized depiction of natural creatures, the Chinese dragon evolved to become a mythical animal. By the Han Dynasty, the dragon's appearance is described as having the trunk of a snake; the scales of a carp ; the tail of a whale; the antlers of a stag; the face of a camel; the talons of eagles; the ears of a bull; the feet of a tiger and the eyes of a (dragon)lobster. It has a flaming pearl under its chin. Chinese dragons are occasionally depicted with bat-like wings growing out of the front limbs, but most do not have wings, though oddly enough, they are still capable of taking flight.

This description accords with the artistic depictions of the dragon down to the present day. The dragon has also acquired an almost unlimited range of supernatural powers. It is said to be able to disguise itself as a silkworm, or become as large as our entire universe. It can fly among the clouds or hide in water (according to the Guanzi). It can form clouds, can turn into water or fire, can become invisible or glow in the dark (according to the Shuowen Jiezi).

The dragon as ruler of weather and water

Chinese dragons are strongly associated with water in popular belief. They are believed to be the rulers of moving bodies of water, such as waterfalls, rivers, or seas. They can show themselves as water spouts (tornado or twister over water). In this capacity as the rulers of water and weather, the dragon is more anthropomorphic in form, often depicted as a humanoid, dressed in a king's costume, but with a dragon head wearing a king's headdress.

There are four major Dragon Kings, representing each of the four seas: the East Sea (corresponding to the East China Sea), the South Sea (corresponding to the South China Sea), the West Sea (sometimes seen as the Indian Ocean and beyond), and the North Sea (sometimes seen as Lake Baikal).

Because of this association, they are seen as "in charge" of water-related weather phenomenon. In premodern times, many Chinese villages (especially those close to rivers and seas) had temples dedicated to their local "dragon king." In times of drought or flooding, it was customary for the local gentry and government officials to lead the community in offering sacrifices and conducting other religious rites to appease the dragon, either to ask for rain or a cessation thereof.

The King of Wu-Yue in the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period was often known as the "Dragon King" or the "Sea Dragon King" because of his extensive hydro-engineering schemes which "tamed" the seas.

The dragon as symbol of imperial authority

An imperial robe from the Qing Dynasty

At the end of his reign, the first legendary Emperor Huang Di was said to have been immortalized into a dragon that resembled his emblem, and ascended to Heaven. Since the Chinese consider Huang Di as their ancestor, they sometimes refer to themselves as "the descendants of the dragon." This legend also contributed towards the use of the Chinese dragon as a symbol of imperial power.

The dragon, especially yellow or golden dragons with five claws on each foot, was a symbol for the emperor in many Chinese dynasties. The imperial throne was called the Dragon Throne. During the late Qing Dynasty, the dragon was even adopted as the national flag. It was a capital offense for commoners to wear clothes with a dragon symbol. The dragon is featured in the carvings on the steps of imperial palaces and tombs, such as the Forbidden City in Beijing.

In some Chinese legends, an Emperor might be born with a birthmark in the shape of a dragon. For example, one legend tells the tale of a peasant born with a dragon birthmark who eventually overthrows the existing dynasty and founds a new one; another legend might tell of the prince in hiding from his enemies who is identified by his dragon birthmark.

In contrast, the Empress of China was often identified with the Fenghuang.

Modern belief in the Chinese dragon

In modern times, belief in the dragon appears to be sporadic at best. There appear to be very few who would see the dragon as a literally real creature. The worship of the Dragon Kings as rulers of water and weather continues in many areas, and is deeply ingrained in Chinese cultural traditions such as Chinese New Year celebrations.

Depictions of the dragon

NuWa Fuxi CMyth.jpg
 Topics in Chinese mythology
General topics: Creation myth · Astrology · Dragons · Religion in China
Folk religion ·List of deities · I Ching
Important beings: Deities · Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors · Eight Immortals
Mythical creatures:

Xuán Wǔ · Qīng Lóng · Bái Hǔ · Zhū Què
Qilin · Fenghuang · Hu li jing · Shi
List of mythical creatures

Mythical places: Xuanpu · Yaochi · Fusang · Queqiao
Penglai · Longmen · Diyu
Literary sources: Shan Hai Jing · Shui Jing Zhu · Ten Brothers · Hei'an Zhuan
Fengshen Yanyi · Journey to the West · Baishe Zhuan
Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio

Neolithic depictions

Dragons or dragon-like depictions have been found extensively in neolithic-period archaeological sites throughout China. The earliest depiction of dragons was found at Xinglongwa culture sites. Yangshao culture sites in Xi'an have produced clay pots with dragon motifs. The Liangzhu culture also produced dragon-like patterns. The Hongshan culture sites in present-day Inner Mongolia produced jade dragon amulets in the form of pig dragons.

One such early form was the pig dragon. It is a coiled, elongated creature with a head resembling a boar[2]. The character for "dragon" in the earliest Chinese writing has a similar coiled form, as do later jade dragon amulets from the Shang period.

Classical depictions

There are "Nine Classical Types" of dragons as depicted in Chinese art and literature, nine being an auspicious number in Chinese culture. These are:

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

Besides these, there are Nine Dragon Children, which feature prominently in architectural and monumental decorations:

  • The first son is called bixi (贔屭 pinyin: bìxì), which looks like a giant tortoise and is good at carrying weight. It is often found as the carved stone base of monumental tablets.
  • The second son is called chiwen (螭吻 pinyin chǐwěn), which looks like a beast and likes to see very far. It is always found on the roof.
  • The third son is called pulao (蒲牢 pinyin pǔláo), which looks like a small dragon, and likes to roar. Thus it is always found on bells.
  • The fourth son is called bi'an (狴犴 pinyin bì'àn), which looks like a tiger, and is powerful. It is often found on prison doors to frighten the prisoners.
  • The fifth son is called taotie (饕餮 pinyin tāotiè), which loves to eat and is found on food-related wares.
  • The sixth son is called baxia (蚣蝮 pinyin gōngfù or bāxià), which likes to be in water, and is found on bridges.
  • The seventh son is called yazi (睚眥 pinyin yázī), which likes to kill, and is found on swords and knives.
  • The eighth son is called suanni (狻猊 pinyin suānní), which looks like a lion and likes smoke as well as having an affinity for fireworks. It is usually found on incense burners.
  • The youngest is called jiaotu (椒圖 pinyin jiāotú), which looks like a conch or clam and does not like to be disturbed. It is used on the front door or the doorstep.

There are two other (inferior) dragon species, the jiao and the li, both hornless. The jiao is sometimes said to be female dragons. The word is also used to refer to crocodiles and other large reptiles. The li is said to be a yellow version of the jiao. Whereas the dragon is mostly seen as auscpicious or holy, the jiao and the li are often depicted as evil or malicious.

Dragon toes

The Chinese dragons have five toes on each foot, Indonesian or Korean dragons have four, and the Japanese dragons have three. To explain this phenomenon, Chinese legend states that all Imperial dragons originated in China, and the further away from China a dragon went the fewer toes it had. Dragons only exist in China, Korea, Indonesia, and Japan because if they traveled further they would have no toes to continue. The Japanese legend has a story similar to the Chinese one, namely that dragons originated in Japan, and the further they traveled the more toes they grew and as a result, if they went too far they would have too many toes to continue to walk properly.

Official interpretation back in the dynasty period: Five claws dragons are reserved for the emperors (five is the holy number in Five elements (Chinese philosophy), four claws dragon is reserved for kings, princes and certain high rank officials, three claws dragon are used by the general public(which is widely seen on China and other Chinese goods back in Ming dynasty). Since Korea and other nations only held the title of king (with respect to the emperor in china), they are only allowed to use four claw dragon. Inproper use of claw number is considered as a sign of rebellion, and will be punished heavily such as executions of whole clan.

Another interpretation: according to several sources, including historical official documents, ordinary Chinese dragons had four toes - but the Imperial Dragon had five. It was a capital offense for anyone - other than the emperor, his blood relatives, and the very few officials who were granted such an extraordinary privilege by the emperor - to use the five-clawed dragon motif.

Korean sources seem to oppose this theory, as the Imperial dragon in Gyeongbok Palace has seven claws, implying its superiority over the inferior Chinese Dragon; of course, this dragon image is hidden in the rafters of the palace and is not entirely in view, even to those who know it is there, suggesting that while the ancient Koreans viewed it as superior, they also knew that it would be offensive to the Imperial Chinese Court.

The Han style dragon is also 3 clawed, which explains how the 3 clawed dragon went to Japan in the Tang or pre-Tang period.

Cultural references

Number nine

The number nine is considered lucky in China and Chinese dragons are frequently connected with it. For example, a Chinese dragon is normally described in terms of nine attributes and usually has 117 scales - 81 (9x9) male and 36 (9x4) female.

This is also why there are nine forms of the dragon and the dragon has nine children (see Classical depictions above). The "Nine Dragon Wall" is a screen wall with images of nine different dragons, and is found in imperial palaces and gardens. As nine was considered the number of the emperor, only the most senior officials were allowed to wear nine dragons on their robes - and then only with the robe completely covered with surcoats. Lower-ranking officials had eight or five dragons on their robes, again covered with surcoats; even the emperor himself wore his dragon robe with one of its nine dragons hidden from view.

There are a number of places in China called "Nine Dragons," the most famous being Kowloon (in Cantonese) in Hong Kong. The part of the Mekong in Vietnam is known as Cửu Long, with the same meaning.

Chinese zodiac

Main Article Dragon (Zodiac)

The dragon is one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac which is used to designate years in the Chinese calendar. It is thought that each animal is associated with certain personality traits. Dragon years are usually the most popular to have babies. There are more babies born in Dragon years than in any other animal years of the Zodiac.

Constellations

The Azure Dragon - Qing Long - 青龍 is considered to be the primary of the four celestial guardians, the other three being the Zhu Que - 朱雀 (red bird), Bai Hu - 白虎 (white tiger), Xuan Wu - 玄武 (black tortoise-like creature). In this context, the Azure Dragon is associated with the East and the element of Wood. .

Dragonboat racing

Main article Dragon boat

At special festivals, especially the Duan Wu festival, dragon boat races are an important part of festivities. Typically, these are boats rowed by a team of up to 12 rowers, and with a carved dragon as the head of the boat. Dragon boat racing is also an important part of celebrations outside of China, such as at Chinese New Years.

Dragon dancing

Main article Dragon dance

On auspicious occasions, including Chinese New Year and the opening of shops and residences, festivities often include dancing with dragon puppets. These are "life sized" cloth-and-wood puppets manipulated by a team of people, supporting the dragon with poles. They perform choreographed moves to the accompaniment of drums and music.

Dragons and Tigers

Tigers have always been an eternal rival to the dragon, thus various artworks depict a dragon and tiger fighting an epic battle. Although the Imperial dragon is infinitely more powerful than the tiger in myth, a well used Chinese idiom to describe equal rivals (often in sports nowadays) is "Dragon versus Tiger." In Chinese martial arts, "Dragon style" is used to describe styles of fighting based more on understanding movement, while "Tiger style" is based on brute strength and memorization of techniques.

Dragons in fiction

As a part of traditional folklore, dragons appear in a variety of mythological fiction.

  • In Journey to the West, the son of the Dragon King of the West was condemned to serve as a horse for the travellers because of his indiscretions at a party in the heavenly court.
  • In Fengshen Yanyi and other stories, Nezha, the boy hero, defeats the Dragon Kings and tames the seas.

In recent years, the Chinese dragon has often featured in popular culture.

  • A mythical dragon features in the Japanese manga series Dragon Ball, which has proved popular throughout Asia.
  • Mushu from the Disney animated movie Mulan, is a talking anthromorphic Chinese dragon, but can breathe fire like a Western dragon and has arms.
  • The Saint Seiya anime and manga features Shiryu as the Dragon Saint.
  • In the Pokémon media franchise universe, Dragons have been used as some of the most powerful creatures that a Pokémon Trainer is able to obtain. They also come in many different forms, showing representations of dragons from around the world.
  • In the Japanese television series Gosei Sentai Dairanger Ryuu Ranger's Kiden Beast is Ryuuseiou, which can change from a chinese dragon to a warrior. The Red Dragon Thunderzord is Ryuuseiou's counterpart in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. There is also Daijinryu, who is also brought on MMPR as Serpenterra.
  • Dojo Kanojo Cho from American animated series Xiaolin Showdown is a Chinese dragon with added arms.
  • In the American animated series American Dragon: Jake Long, Jake's grandfather and dragon-master Lao Shi, is a Chinese dragon, who is strangely able to breathe fire like a Western dragon. Chinese dragons are rarely depicted as fire-breathers, though a few texts do include this.
  • The eponymous Temeraire is a "Celestial Dragon," of whom there are very few. They are capable of generating the "divine wind": a supernatural roar which can destroy buildings and ships.
  • In the Harry Potter series, Chinese dragons are one of the few races of dragons, and are called "Chinese Fireballs." According to Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Chinese Fireballs breathe fireballs instead of a continuous jet of flame.


Japanese Dragon

A Japanese dragon, also known as ryū or tatsu (竜 or 龍, "dragon") is a legendary creature from Japan. Like other creatures refered to as dragons, the ryū is a large, fantastic, serpent-like being, and is closely related to the Chinese lóng and the Korean yong. Like these it is usually depicted as a wingless, heavily-scaled snake-like creature with small clawed legs and a horned or antlered mammalian head, and is associated with large bodies of water, clouds or the heavens. The ryū in art can generally be distinguished from other East-Asian dragons in that it has only three toes, rather than the lóng's five or the yong's four.

One of the first dragon-like creatures in Japanese myth is the Yamata-no-Orochi, an enormous girl-devouring serpent with eight heads and eight tails which was slain by Susanoo.

Dragons in later Japanese folklore were often much more benign, perhaps because of a heavy influence from China. They appear in famous tales such as My Lord Bag of Rice, in which a hero must kill a giant centipede which is devouring the children of the dragon king of Lake Biwa. In Urashima Tarō, the title character rescues a turtle which turns out to be the daughter of Ryūjin, the dragon king of the ocean.

In popular culture

Modern Japanese popular culture often refers to dragons, ascribing to them magical powers such as healing, flying with or without wings, or assuming a human form at will. Examples include:

  • In the Dragon Ball series, the initial plot is about magical balls which can grant wishes, given to mankind by the dragon Shenlong (It is notable, however, that Shenlong is closer in design to a 5-clawed Chinese dragon than a 3-clawed Japanese one).
  • In the Pokémon series, dragons (Such as Dragonair, Rayquaza, and Salamence) are a powerful Pokémon type.
  • In Spirited Away, the main character, Haku, is revealed to be the white dragon spirit of a river.
  • In the famous console RPG series Dragon Quest(1-8), there are many dragons throughout the game, designs vary from European dragons to Asian dragons.
  • The Breath of Fire console RPG series all have a dragon as the main character.
  • In the trading card game Magic: The Gathering, the Legendary Dragon Spirit known as Kokusho exists as part of a powerful race of dragons found on the plane Kamigawa.
  • In the InuYasha series, one particularly powerful demon/youkai, Ryukotsusei, was a dragon with a Japanese mask on its forehead that was able to speak in human language.
  • In the tokusatsu series Super Sentai there appear several dragon-themed rangers and mecha, such as the Dragon Ranger and his mecha, Dragon Caesar, in Kyouryuu Sentai Zyuranger.

Vietnamese Dragon

File:Dragonvietnam.gif
Vietnamese dragon, Ly dynasty

In Vietnam, the dragon (Vietnamese: rồng or long) is the most important and sacred symbol. According to the ancient creation myth of the Vietnamese people, all Vietnamese people are descended from a dragon.

To Vietnamese people, the dragon brings rain, essential for agriculture. It represents the King, the prosperity and power of the nation. Like the Chinese dragon, the Vietnamese dragon is the symbol of yang, representing the universe, life, existence, and growth.

The legend

The 5th-generation grandson of Shennong, Lạc Long Quân, in dragonkind, king of Đông sea, married a fairy, Âu Cơ, in birdkind, daughter of king Đế Lai. Âu Cơ bore 100 eggs, which hatched into 100 sons. The first-born son became the king of Lạc Việt, the first dynasty of Vietnam, proclaimed himself Emperor Hùng Vương The First (who was then followed by Hùng Vương The Second, Hùng Vương The Third and so on, through 18 reigns). This is the origin of the Vietnamese proverb: "Con Rồng, cháu Tiên" ("Children of Dragon, Grandchildren of Fairy").

Hùng Vương taught citizens to tattoo dragon images on their chest, abdomen and thigh to protect them against orca.

Historical development of Vietnamese dragon image

Prehistory

The Vietnamese dragon is the combined image of crocodile, snake, lizard and bird. Historically, Vietnamese people lived near rivers, so they venerated crocodiles as "Giao Long," the first kind of Vietnamese dragon.

There are some kinds of dragons found on archaeological objects: crocodile-dragons (dragons with crocodile head and snake body). The cat-dragon excavated on a glazed terracotta piece in Bac Ninh has some features of Dai Viet period dragon: it does not have a crocodile head, its head is shorter and it has a long neck, its wing and backfin are long lines, and its whiskers and fur are found in the Dai Viet dragon image.

Ngo dynasty (938–965)

On the brick from this period found in Co Loa, the dragon is short, with a cat-like body and a fish's backfin.

Ly dynasty (1010–1225)

The Ly dynasty is the dynasty which laid the foundation of Vietnamese feudal culture. Buddhism was widespread and Van Mieu, the first feudal university, was opened. The slender, flowing dragon of this period represents the King, and is literature dragon.

These dragons' perfectly rounded bodies curve lithely, in a long sinuous shape, tapering gradually to the tail. The body has 12 sections, symbolising 12 months in the year. On the dragon's back are small, uninterrupted, regular fins. The head, held high, is in proportion with the body, and has a long mane, beard, prominent eyes, crest on nose (pointing forwards), but no horns. The legs are small and thin, and usually 3-toed. The jaw is opened wide, with a long, thin tongue; the dragons always keep a châu (gem/jewel) in their mouths (a symbol of humanity, nobility and knowledge). These dragons are able to change the weather, and are responsible for crops.

File:188582749 20bbd4c36c.jpeg
A terracotta tile showing a dragon

Tran dynasty (1225–1400)

The Tran dynasty dragon was similar to that of the Ly dynasty but looked more intrepid. The Tran dragon has new details: arms and horns. Its fiery crest is shorter. Its slightly curved body is fat and smaller toward the tail. There are many kinds of tail (straight and pointed tail, spiral tail) as well as many kinds of scale (a regular half-flower scale, slightly-curved scale).

The Tran dragon symbolised the martial arts, because the Tran kings were descended from a Mandarin commander. The Vietnamese had to fight Mongol invaders in this age.

Le dynasty

In this period, the Vietnamese dragon's image was influenced by the Chinese dragon, because of Confucianism's expansion policy. Differing from those of the previous dynasty, dragons in this age are not only represented in a curved posture among clouds but also in others. These dragons were majestic, with lion-heads. Instead of a fiery crest, they have a large nose. Their bodies only curve in two sections. Their feet have five sharp claws.

Nguyen dynasty

(1802–1883) During the early part of Nguyen dynasty, the dragon is represented with a spiral tail and long fiery sword-fin. Dragon was personified, for example, by a mother with her children, the couple of dragons. Its head and eyes are large. It has stag horns, a lion's nose, exposed canine teeth, regular flash scale, curved whiskers. Dragon images made for the King have 5 claws, others have 4 claws.

(1883-1945) In this later period the dragon image degenerated and became unrefined, losing its natural and majestic shape, and was seen as a signal of the decline in art of the last Vietnamese dynasty.

Dragon in literature

Some proverbs and sayings mention dragons but imply something else:

"Rồng gặp mây": "Dragon meets clouds" – In favourable condition.

"Đầu rồng đuôi tôm": "Dragon's head, shrimp's tail" – Good at first and bad at last; something which starts well but ends badly.

"Phượng múa rồng bay": "Phoenix dances, dragon flies" – Used to praise the calligraphy of someone who writes Chinese ideograms well.

"Rồng đến nhà tôm": "Dragon visits shrimp's house" – A saying used by a host to (or of) his guest: the host portrays himself as a humble shrimp and his guest as a noble dragon.

"Ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo, làm như mèo mửa": "Eating as dragon scrolls, talking as dragon climbs, working as cat vomits" – A criticism of someone who eats too much and talks a lot, but is lazy.

File:Mua-rong.jpeg
A Dong Ho painting of a dragon dance

Vietnamese place-names, and other things, named after dragons

Ha Noi (Vietnamese: Hà Nội), the capital of Vietnam, was anciently known as Thăng Long (from Thăng, meaning "grow, develop, rise, fly" and Long, meaning "dragon"), a name which is still used to refer to the capital in a poetic manner. In 1010, King Lý Thái Tổ moved the capital from Hoa Lư to Đại La for the reason written down in Chiếu dời đô (Royal proclamation of moving capital). He saw a Rồng vàng (yellow dragon) fly around on the clear blue sky, so he changed the name of Đại La to Thăng Long, meaning "Vietnam's bright and developed future."

Many place-names in Vietnam incorporate the word Long, or Rồng (also meaning dragon): Ha Long bay (vịnh Hạ Long), the section of the Mekong river flowing through Vietnam contains 9 branches and is called Cửu Long (meaning nine dragons); provinces: Vĩnh Long, Long An, Bến Nhà Rồng (where Ho Chi Minh started his journey to find out the guideline of national liberation); Hàm Rồng bridge, Long Biên bridge. Other things named after dragons include: Thanh Long (dragonfruit), vòi rồng (waterspout), xương rồng (Cactaceae), long nhãn (dragon eyes: a kind of longan fruit).

Korean Drangon

Chinese dragon
Yongsan Dragon 4.jpg
Korean name
Hangul
Hanja
Revised Romanization yong
McCune-Reischauer yong


The Korean dragon is a certain type of dragon associated with Korean mythology. Like its peers, the Korean dragon is culture-specific, which means it has unique properties that differentiate it from dragons in other cultures. It is generally comparable to its Chinese counterpart in appearance and cultural significance.

Korean dragons

Whereas most dragons in Western mythology are generally related to the elements of fire and destruction, dragons in Korean mythology are mostly viewed as benevolent beings related to water and agriculture, often considered bringers of rain and clouds. Hence, many Korean dragons are said to have resided in rivers, lakes, oceans or even deep ponds within mountains.

The symbol of the dragon has been used extensively, both in Korean mythology and ancient Korean art. Politically, the dragon represents the Emperor, who himself was associated with rain and agriculture. Hence, those who used the title of King (Wang) were forbidden from wearing dragon adornments; the phoenix is the creature traditionally associated with a king.

Ancient texts sometimes mention sentient speaking dragons, capable of understanding such complex emotions such as devotion, kindness, and gratitude. One particular Korean legend speaks of the great King Munmu, who on his deathbed wished to become a "Dragon of the East Sea in order to protect Korea."

The Korean dragon was said to have certain specific traits: no wings, for example, in addition to a long beard.

Very occasionally a dragon may be depicted as carrying a dragon orb known as the Yeo-ui-ju (여의주) in one or more of its claws. It was said that whoever could wield the Yeo-ui-ju was blessed with the abilities of omnipotence and creation at will, and that only four-toed dragons (those which had thumbs to hold the orbs) were both wise and powerful enough to wield these orbs (as opposed to the lesser, three-toed dragons).

As with Chinese dragons, the number nine is significant with Korean dragons and they are said to have 81 (=9x9) scales on their backs.

Imugi

A close relative to the dragon is a native Korean mythological creature known as an Imugi (이무기). There are different stories about the Imugi: Some, for example, say that they are hornless creatures resembling dragons but have been cursed, and thus were unable to become dragons. Other say that an Imugi is a proto-dragon which must survive one thousand years in order to become a fully fledged dragon. In either case they are said to be large benevolent python-like creatures that live in the waters or caves. Their sighting is associated with good luck.

Korean cockatrice

The Korean cockatrice is known as a kye-ryong (계룡), which literally means chicken-dragon; they do not appear as often as dragons. They are sometimes seen as chariot-pulling beasts for important legendary figures or for the parents of legendary heroes. One such legend involves the founding of the Kingdom of Silla, whose princess was said to have been born from a cockatrice egg.


References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  1. "Brand Overview", Brand Hong Kong, 09-2004. Retrieved on 23-02-2007.
  2. "Jade coiled dragon, Hongshan Culture (c. 4700-2920 B.C.E.)", National Gallery of Art, Washington DC. Retrieved on 23-02-2007.

External links

External links


Credits

New World Encyclopedia writers and editors rewrote and completed the Wikipedia article in accordance with New World Encyclopedia standards. This article abides by terms of the Creative Commons CC-by-sa 3.0 License (CC-by-sa), which may be used and disseminated with proper attribution. Credit is due under the terms of this license that can reference both the New World Encyclopedia contributors and the selfless volunteer contributors of the Wikimedia Foundation. To cite this article click here for a list of acceptable citing formats.The history of earlier contributions by wikipedians is accessible to researchers here:

The history of this article since it was imported to New World Encyclopedia:

Note: Some restrictions may apply to use of individual images which are separately licensed.