Difference between revisions of "Chinese Symbols and Art Motifs"
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;{{Wiki|Bamboo}} | ;{{Wiki|Bamboo}} | ||
| − | Always green in {{Wiki|color}}, {{Wiki|bamboo}} is a [[symbol]] of [[old age]] and modesty. {{Wiki|Bamboo}} and plums together represent man and wife. {{Wiki|Bamboo}}, pine [[trees]], and plums commonly seen together in a painting are the "Friends in Winter". | + | Always [[green]] in {{Wiki|color}}, {{Wiki|bamboo}} is a [[symbol]] of [[old age]] and modesty. {{Wiki|Bamboo}} and plums together represent man and wife. {{Wiki|Bamboo}}, pine [[trees]], and plums commonly seen together in a painting are the "Friends in Winter". |
;Banana | ;Banana | ||
| − | [[Symbol]] for self-discipline. | + | [[Symbol]] for [[self-discipline]]. |
;Bat | ;Bat | ||
| − | One of the top [[symbols]] for [[good luck]]. The [[word]] "bat" in the [[Chinese language]] {{Wiki|sounds}} [[identical]] to the [[word]] for "Good [[Fortune]]." Often five bats are shown together to represent the Five [[Blessings]]; a long [[life]], riches, health, [[love]] of [[virtue]], and a natural [[death]]. | + | One of the top [[symbols]] for [[good luck]]. The [[word]] "bat" in the [[Chinese language]] {{Wiki|sounds}} [[identical]] to the [[word]] for "Good [[Fortune]]." Often five bats are shown together to represent the Five [[Blessings]]; a long [[life]], riches, [[health]], [[love]] of [[virtue]], and a natural [[death]]. |
;Bear | ;Bear | ||
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;Beard | ;Beard | ||
| − | A sign of [[supernatural power]] or of bravery, especially when it is red or purple. | + | A sign of [[supernatural power]] or of [[bravery]], especially when it is [[red]] or purple. |
;Bee | ;Bee | ||
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;[[Bowl]] | ;[[Bowl]] | ||
| − | The [[bowl]] is one of the eight [[Buddhist]] [[precious]] things. It represents the {{Wiki|stomach}} of the [[Buddha]] and may also represent the urn into which the bones of the [[dead]] are put. | + | The [[bowl]] is one of the eight [[Buddhist]] [[precious]] things. It represents the {{Wiki|stomach}} of the [[Buddha]] and may also represent the [[urn]] into which the [[bones]] of the [[dead]] are put. |
;Broom | ;Broom | ||
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;Cock | ;Cock | ||
| − | Wards off [[evil]]. A picture of a red cock will {{Wiki|protect}} a house from [[fire]]. A white cock placed on a coffin will keep {{Wiki|demons}} at bay. A cock is never to be killed or bad [[luck]] will arise. | + | Wards off [[evil]]. A picture of a [[red]] [[cock]] will {{Wiki|protect}} a house from [[fire]]. A white [[cock]] placed on a coffin will keep {{Wiki|demons}} at bay. A [[cock]] is never to be killed or bad [[luck]] will arise. |
;[[Conch Shell]] | ;[[Conch Shell]] | ||
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;Crane | ;Crane | ||
| − | [[Symbol]] of longevity. It is often shown with other [[symbols]] of longevity such as the pine [[tree]]. Two cranes flying upward towards the {{Wiki|sun}} has the meaning or wish of "rising high." | + | [[Symbol]] of longevity. It is often shown with other [[symbols]] of longevity such as the pine [[tree]]. Two cranes flying upward towards the {{Wiki|sun}} has the meaning or wish of "[[rising]] high." |
;Cricket | ;Cricket | ||
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;[[Five Elements]] | ;[[Five Elements]] | ||
| − | Shown by the colors green, red, black, yellow and white. Green clouds indicate a plague of {{Wiki|insects}}. Red [[symbolizes]] [[virtue]], especially [[truth]] and sincerity. Black [[symbolizes]] [[guilt]] and vice. White indicates [[moral]] [[purity]]. Yellow is a sign of {{Wiki|prosperity}}. | + | Shown by the colors [[green]], [[red]], black, [[yellow]] and white. [[Green]] clouds indicate a plague of {{Wiki|insects}}. [[Red]] [[symbolizes]] [[virtue]], especially [[truth]] and sincerity. Black [[symbolizes]] [[guilt]] and vice. White indicates [[moral]] [[purity]]. [[Yellow]] is a sign of {{Wiki|prosperity}}. |
| − | ;Golden Fishes | + | ;[[Golden Fishes]] |
The two {{Wiki|gold}} {{Wiki|fish}} are usually shown head to head and represent {{Wiki|fertility}} as {{Wiki|fish}} produce many offspring. They are one of the [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]] of [[Buddhism]]. | The two {{Wiki|gold}} {{Wiki|fish}} are usually shown head to head and represent {{Wiki|fertility}} as {{Wiki|fish}} produce many offspring. They are one of the [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]] of [[Buddhism]]. | ||
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;{{Wiki|Goose}} | ;{{Wiki|Goose}} | ||
| − | [[Symbol]] of married [[bliss]]. | + | [[Symbol]] of [[married]] [[bliss]]. |
;Heron | ;Heron | ||
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;[[Horse]] | ;[[Horse]] | ||
| − | The [[horse]] is a [[symbol]] of strength and speed. Eight [[horses]] in a painting represent the famous [[horses]] of [[King]] Mu from the 10th century BC. | + | The [[horse]] is a [[symbol]] of strength and {{Wiki|speed}}. Eight [[horses]] in a painting represent the famous [[horses]] of [[King]] Mu from the 10th century BC. |
;[[Incense]] | ;[[Incense]] | ||
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;[[Lion]] | ;[[Lion]] | ||
| − | [[Lions]] play a big part in {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|folklore}} and are usually depicted looking more [[mythical]] than real. Pairs of stone [[lions]] rival even [[dragons]] in popularity as guardians of buildings and [[temples]]. | + | [[Lions]] play a big part in {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|folklore}} and are usually depicted looking more [[mythical]] than real. Pairs of stone [[lions]] rival even [[dragons]] in [[popularity]] as guardians of buildings and [[temples]]. |
;[[Lotus]] | ;[[Lotus]] | ||
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Thanks to the [[Buddhist]] influence, the [[lotus]] (or sea-rose) is of unique importance in {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|folklore}} and [[symbolism]]. It is the [[symbol]] of [[purity]]. The [[lotus]] comes out of the mire but is not itself soiled. It is inwardly [[empty]] yet outwardly upright. It has no branches but yet {{Wiki|smells}} sweet. The words for [[lotus]] in {{Wiki|Chinese}} have the same meanings as: to bind, connect (in [[marriage]]), one after the other, uninterrupted, to [[love]], and modesty. It is one of the [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]] of [[Buddhism]]. | Thanks to the [[Buddhist]] influence, the [[lotus]] (or sea-rose) is of unique importance in {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|folklore}} and [[symbolism]]. It is the [[symbol]] of [[purity]]. The [[lotus]] comes out of the mire but is not itself soiled. It is inwardly [[empty]] yet outwardly upright. It has no branches but yet {{Wiki|smells}} sweet. The words for [[lotus]] in {{Wiki|Chinese}} have the same meanings as: to bind, connect (in [[marriage]]), one after the other, uninterrupted, to [[love]], and modesty. It is one of the [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]] of [[Buddhism]]. | ||
| − | ;Lute | + | ;{{Wiki|Lute}} |
| − | Said to have been invented by Fu His, the first legendary [[emperor]], 2953 B.C. It is one of the four [[signs]] of a [[scholar]] the other three being {{Wiki|chess}}, {{Wiki|literature}} and painting. | + | Said to have been invented by [[Fu]] His, the first legendary [[emperor]], 2953 B.C. It is one of the four [[signs]] of a [[scholar]] the other three being {{Wiki|chess}}, {{Wiki|literature}} and painting. |
;Magnolia | ;Magnolia | ||
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;[[Money]] | ;[[Money]] | ||
| − | Images of {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[money]] including metal coins, {{Wiki|gold}} bars and paper [[money]] are regularly seen in {{Wiki|Chinese}} paintings. The [[word]] for [[money]] in {{Wiki|Chinese}} is similar to the [[word]] meaning "before, hence." | + | Images of {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[money]] [[including]] metal coins, {{Wiki|gold}} bars and paper [[money]] are regularly seen in {{Wiki|Chinese}} paintings. The [[word]] for [[money]] in {{Wiki|Chinese}} is similar to the [[word]] meaning "before, hence." |
;[[Mountains]] | ;[[Mountains]] | ||
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;[[Pagoda]] | ;[[Pagoda]] | ||
| − | In [[China]], [[Korea]] and [[Japan]] a [[pagoda]] is a structure with several stories containing [[sacred]] [[relics]]. [[Maitreya]], the [[Buddha of the Future]], is often depicted wearing a small [[pagoda]] or [[stupa]] on his headdress. | + | In [[China]], [[Korea]] and [[Japan]] a [[pagoda]] is a {{Wiki|structure}} with several stories containing [[sacred]] [[relics]]. [[Maitreya]], the [[Buddha of the Future]], is often depicted wearing a small [[pagoda]] or [[stupa]] on his headdress. |
;[[Parasol]] | ;[[Parasol]] | ||
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;Pine | ;Pine | ||
| − | The favorite [[tree]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} painters, the pine [[symbolizes]] longevity and steadfastness. Pine [[trees]] rank above all other [[trees]] and epitomize self-discipline. Pine, bamboos and plum-trees are the "Three Friends in Winter." | + | The favorite [[tree]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} painters, the pine [[symbolizes]] longevity and steadfastness. Pine [[trees]] rank above all other [[trees]] and epitomize [[self-discipline]]. Pine, bamboos and plum-trees are the "Three Friends in Winter." |
;Plum | ;Plum | ||
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;[[Prayer Beads]] | ;[[Prayer Beads]] | ||
| − | Also called rosary, it usually consists of [[108]] beads and is an [[essential]] part of the [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|priests}}’ garb. Some are smaller and the number of beads can usually be divided by three. The beads can be made from different materials and are sometimes decorated. | + | Also called rosary, it usually consists of [[108]] [[beads]] and is an [[essential]] part of the [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|priests}}’ garb. Some are smaller and the number of [[beads]] can usually be divided by three. The [[beads]] can be made from different materials and are sometimes decorated. |
;Rose | ;Rose | ||
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;[[Stupa]] ([[Pagoda]]) | ;[[Stupa]] ([[Pagoda]]) | ||
| − | In [[China]], [[Korea]] and [[Japan]] a [[pagoda]] is a structure with several stories containing [[sacred]] [[relics]]. [[Maitreya]], the [[Buddha of the Future]], is often depicted wearing a small [[pagoda]] or [[stupa]] on his headdress. | + | In [[China]], [[Korea]] and [[Japan]] a [[pagoda]] is a {{Wiki|structure}} with several stories containing [[sacred]] [[relics]]. [[Maitreya]], the [[Buddha of the Future]], is often depicted wearing a small [[pagoda]] or [[stupa]] on his headdress. |
;[[Swastika]] | ;[[Swastika]] | ||
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;[[Tiger]] | ;[[Tiger]] | ||
| − | [[King]] of the wild [[animals]], the [[tiger]] is a [[symbol]] of [[courage]] and bravery and it can drive off {{Wiki|demons}}. | + | [[King]] of the wild [[animals]], the [[tiger]] is a [[symbol]] of [[courage]] and [[bravery]] and it can drive off {{Wiki|demons}}. |
;[[Treasure Vase]] | ;[[Treasure Vase]] | ||
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Many of the [[gods]] exhibit swords to show their ability to cut through [[ignorance]] and [[evil]]. | Many of the [[gods]] exhibit swords to show their ability to cut through [[ignorance]] and [[evil]]. | ||
| − | ;Vase | + | ;[[Vase]] |
| − | Common to {{Wiki|Chinese}} paintings, the [[word]] vase in {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|sounds}} much like the [[word]] for "[[peace]]." [[Flowers]] are popular [[offerings]] to the [[gods]] and the vase is an important part of that [[offering]]. Shown with a wide variety of [[plants]] and [[flowers]], the vase gives rise to a broad field of symbolisms. | + | Common to {{Wiki|Chinese}} paintings, the [[word]] [[vase]] in {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|sounds}} much like the [[word]] for "[[peace]]." [[Flowers]] are popular [[offerings]] to the [[gods]] and the [[vase]] is an important part of that [[offering]]. Shown with a wide variety of [[plants]] and [[flowers]], the [[vase]] gives rise to a broad field of symbolisms. |
;[[Victory Banner]] | ;[[Victory Banner]] | ||
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;[[Wheel]] | ;[[Wheel]] | ||
| − | An important [[symbol]] in [[Buddhist art]], the [[wheel]] represents the [[endless]] cycle of [[birth]], [[death]] and [[rebirth]] known as [[samsara]]. The [[wheel]] can also [[symbolize]] the [[teaching]] of [[dharma]], of the [[Buddha]], being in [[constant]] {{Wiki|motion}} and providing a [[path]] towards [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] and eventual release from this cycle. Every [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|culture}} uses the [[wheel]] in its [[art]] as a motif in {{Wiki|sculpture}}, paintings, architecture and the decorative [[arts]]. It is one of the [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]] of [[Buddhism]]. | + | An important [[symbol]] in [[Buddhist art]], the [[wheel]] represents the [[endless]] cycle of [[birth]], [[death]] and [[rebirth]] known as [[samsara]]. The [[wheel]] can also [[symbolize]] the [[teaching]] of [[dharma]], of the [[Buddha]], being in [[constant]] {{Wiki|motion}} and providing a [[path]] towards [[spiritual]] [[enlightenment]] and eventual [[release]] from this cycle. Every [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|culture}} uses the [[wheel]] in its [[art]] as a motif in {{Wiki|sculpture}}, paintings, [[architecture]] and the decorative [[arts]]. It is one of the [[Eight Auspicious Symbols]] of [[Buddhism]]. |
;Willow | ;Willow | ||
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;[[Yin and Yang]] | ;[[Yin and Yang]] | ||
| − | The negative and positive forces of [[universal]] [[life]]. They are represented by the [[symbol]] which is a diagram of an egg showing the yolk and the white, in dark and light colors to distinguish the two {{Wiki|principles}}. The [[Yin]] [[embodies]] the {{Wiki|female}} [[principle]] and is associated with the [[earth]], with the [[North]] and the cold. The original meaning of the [[word]] means “shady side,” the side of the mountain not facing the {{Wiki|sun}} The [[Yang]] {{Wiki|signifies}} [[heaven]], {{Wiki|sun}}, light, [[vigor]]. Together the [[Yin and Yang]] make up the [[Tao]], the [[eternal principle]] of [[heaven]] and [[earth]] and the origin of all things [[human]] and [[divine]]. This, in turn, produces [[Chi]], the perfect [[balance]] of all things. | + | The negative and positive forces of [[universal]] [[life]]. They are represented by the [[symbol]] which is a diagram of an egg showing the yolk and the white, in dark and {{Wiki|light}} colors to distinguish the two {{Wiki|principles}}. The [[Yin]] [[embodies]] the {{Wiki|female}} [[principle]] and is associated with the [[earth]], with the [[North]] and the cold. The original meaning of the [[word]] means “shady side,” the side of the mountain not facing the {{Wiki|sun}} The [[Yang]] {{Wiki|signifies}} [[heaven]], {{Wiki|sun}}, {{Wiki|light}}, [[vigor]]. Together the [[Yin and Yang]] make up the [[Tao]], the [[eternal principle]] of [[heaven]] and [[earth]] and the origin of all things [[human]] and [[divine]]. This, in turn, produces [[Chi]], the {{Wiki|perfect}} [[balance]] of all things. |
{{R}} | {{R}} | ||
Latest revision as of 17:30, 26 May 2023
Always green in color, bamboo is a symbol of old age and modesty. Bamboo and plums together represent man and wife. Bamboo, pine trees, and plums commonly seen together in a painting are the "Friends in Winter".
- Banana
Symbol for self-discipline.
- Bat
One of the top symbols for good luck. The word "bat" in the Chinese language sounds identical to the word for "Good Fortune." Often five bats are shown together to represent the Five Blessings; a long life, riches, health, love of virtue, and a natural death.
- Bear
Symbolizes man and stands for strength and courage.
- Beard
A sign of supernatural power or of bravery, especially when it is red or purple.
- Bee
Symbolizes industriousness and thrift.
- Black
Symbolizes darkness, death, honor.
The book is one of eight symbols of the scholar and represents learning.
The bowl is one of the eight Buddhist precious things. It represents the stomach of the Buddha and may also represent the urn into which the bones of the dead are put.
- Broom
A symbol for wisdom and insight.
- Carp
Similar sounding to the word "Business" in Chinese, the carp symbolizes a wish for benefit or advantage in business.
- Chrysanthemum
Symbolizes autumn. Its Chinese name sounds similar to the words "remain, nine, and long time." It is best to pick chrysanthemums on the 9th day of the 9th month.
- Clouds
Symbolize good fortune and happiness, especially when they have more than one color.
- Cock
Wards off evil. A picture of a red cock will protect a house from fire. A white cock placed on a coffin will keep demons at bay. A cock is never to be killed or bad luck will arise.
Used by Hindus and Buddhists in religious rites or to call together an assembly. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
- Crane
Symbol of longevity. It is often shown with other symbols of longevity such as the pine tree. Two cranes flying upward towards the sun has the meaning or wish of "rising high."
- Cricket
The cricket symbolizes summer. It also represents courage and a fighting spirit.
One of the most complex and multi-tiered Chinese symbols. The dragon is a good natured and benign creature often living in seas, rivers, lakes or clouds. A symbol of male vigor and fertility, the dragon is also a symbol of the Emperor, the Son of Heaven. Paintings often show two dragons playing in the clouds with a ball or large pearl.
- Dragon Fly
The Dragon Fly is a symbol of summer.
A symbol of strength, an eagle shown perched in a pine-tree is a suitable gift for an older man, wishing him strength of an Eagle and longevity of a pine-tree. An eagle on a rock in the sea symbolizes "hero" who fights a lone battle.
The elephant can symbolize strength and astuteness. It is regarded as an animal with very high moral standards and is often shown along with the tiger, lion and leopard.
Symbolizes long life, eternal love and the interconnection of things. In Buddhism the simple form with no beginning and no end stands for the infinite knowledge of Buddha. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
The art of placing houses and graves in cooperation and harmonization with local currents of the cosmic breath (Yin and Yang). The dousing rod and astrological compass are used in this process. The placement of symbolic figures on roofs and the pictures of spirits on doors and/or placement of stone images in front of buildings are done to achieve a lucky atmosphere in which the cosmic currents can develop a favorable Feng Shui.
Fish in Chinese sounds like the word for "Abundance and Affluence" so the fish symbolizes wealth. Fish shown with a lotus blossom symbolize "Year after Year may you live in Affluence". Chinese Fish Paintings
Shown by the colors green, red, black, yellow and white. Green clouds indicate a plague of insects. Red symbolizes virtue, especially truth and sincerity. Black symbolizes guilt and vice. White indicates moral purity. Yellow is a sign of prosperity.
The two gold fish are usually shown head to head and represent fertility as fish produce many offspring. They are one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
- Goldfish
The Chinese words for goldfish are identical with the two words meaning "Gold and Abundance" therefore many Chinese keep goldfish at there homes or in ponds in temple gardens.
- Heron
Heron in Chinese sounds a lot like the word for "path or way." A painting of a heron and a lotus has the meaning of "May your path be always upward."
The horse is a symbol of strength and speed. Eight horses in a painting represent the famous horses of King Mu from the 10th century BC.
The word means fragrance. Incense is used in homes and temples as an offering to the gods. Usually incense sticks are lit and placed upright inside a round open container.
The favorite gemstone in China. It is always cool to the touch.
- Lily
A lily is a plant that is used to help you forget your troubles. It is also know as the bringer of sons so is often given to a woman at marriage.
Lions play a big part in Chinese folklore and are usually depicted looking more mythical than real. Pairs of stone lions rival even dragons in popularity as guardians of buildings and temples.
Thanks to the Buddhist influence, the lotus (or sea-rose) is of unique importance in Chinese folklore and symbolism. It is the symbol of purity. The lotus comes out of the mire but is not itself soiled. It is inwardly empty yet outwardly upright. It has no branches but yet smells sweet. The words for lotus in Chinese have the same meanings as: to bind, connect (in marriage), one after the other, uninterrupted, to love, and modesty. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
Said to have been invented by Fu His, the first legendary emperor, 2953 B.C. It is one of the four signs of a scholar the other three being chess, literature and painting.
- Magnolia
There are many varieties both tree and shrub. The magnolia blossom is the emblem of feminine sweetness and beauty.
An elaborate diagram used by Buddhists, Hindus and Jains as a visual aid to help people in the search for spiritual enlightenment.
Images of Chinese money including metal coins, gold bars and paper money are regularly seen in Chinese paintings. The word for money in Chinese is similar to the word meaning "before, hence."
In most religions mountains have an important symbolic role. They are the geographic point at which followers believe they are the closest to their gods or to the highest points of the universe.
In China, Korea and Japan a pagoda is a structure with several stories containing sacred relics. Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, is often depicted wearing a small pagoda or stupa on his headdress.
A symbol of high rank or royalty. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
- Peach
A symbol for longevity, the peach is the most symbolic of any tree or fruit. Its tree wood and color keep demons at bay, and its flower petals can cast spells on men.
Symbolizes dignity and beauty.
- Pear
Symbol of longevity due to the fact that pear trees live very long.
- Peony
Queen of Flowers, the peony is a emblem of wealth and distinction.
Commonly seen alongside a dragon, the Phoenix symbolizes the Empress. It is commonly used as a female symbol.
- Pine
The favorite tree of Chinese painters, the pine symbolizes longevity and steadfastness. Pine trees rank above all other trees and epitomize self-discipline. Pine, bamboos and plum-trees are the "Three Friends in Winter."
- Plum
The five petals of the plum tree symbolize the five gods of good luck. The plum tree, pine, and bamboo are the "Three Friends in Winter." more
Also called rosary, it usually consists of 108 beads and is an essential part of the Buddhist priests’ garb. Some are smaller and the number of beads can usually be divided by three. The beads can be made from different materials and are sometimes decorated.
- Rose
Symbolizes youth and the four seasons.
An ancient Indian language in which many of the original Buddhist sutras or sacred texts were written.
In China, Korea and Japan a pagoda is a structure with several stories containing sacred relics. Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, is often depicted wearing a small pagoda or stupa on his headdress.
One of the oldest symbols in India and China, the Swastika is mainly a symbol of good luck. In Buddhist symbolism, it is used to symbolize the Buddha’s heart.
King of the wild animals, the tiger is a symbol of courage and bravery and it can drive off demons.
This symbolizes spiritual abundance. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
- Sword
Many of the gods exhibit swords to show their ability to cut through ignorance and evil.
Common to Chinese paintings, the word vase in Chinese sounds much like the word for "peace." Flowers are popular offerings to the gods and the vase is an important part of that offering. Shown with a wide variety of plants and flowers, the vase gives rise to a broad field of symbolisms.
It is composed of a cylinder of cloth which represents a parasol. In the Buddhist religion it represents the victory of the Buddha’s teachings, i.e., the victory of knowledge over ignorance and evil. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
An important symbol in Buddhist art, the wheel represents the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth known as samsara. The wheel can also symbolize the teaching of dharma, of the Buddha, being in constant motion and providing a path towards spiritual enlightenment and eventual release from this cycle. Every Buddhist culture uses the wheel in its art as a motif in sculpture, paintings, architecture and the decorative arts. It is one of the Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism.
- Willow
Symbol of Spring.
The negative and positive forces of universal life. They are represented by the symbol which is a diagram of an egg showing the yolk and the white, in dark and light colors to distinguish the two principles. The Yin embodies the female principle and is associated with the earth, with the North and the cold. The original meaning of the word means “shady side,” the side of the mountain not facing the sun The Yang signifies heaven, sun, light, vigor. Together the Yin and Yang make up the Tao, the eternal principle of heaven and earth and the origin of all things human and divine. This, in turn, produces Chi, the perfect balance of all things.
