Although much of the western world is aware of the Puff the magic dragon not many know of Long the Chinese dragon. Long is actually a general term used to refer to the dragon in China. There are nine different types of dragons according to Chinese mythology. These different dragon types are also referred to as nine degrees. The long is considered to have five distinct life stages.
The concept of this Mythical creature came about from taking various characteristics and features from other earthly animals. Collectively, the body is reminiscent of a snake, its ears are the same as a cow's, its feet are of both a tiger's paw and hawk's claws, its horns from a stag and the eyes also demonic in appearance belong to a rabbit. The dragon's body texture is comprised of scales which mimics a fish.
The character and persona of a dragon has long been misunderstood. While Westerners perceive the dragon to be an aggressive and fearful creature, the Chinese belief is that a dragon is a passive, strong and admired symbol in the Chinese culture.
There are nine distinctive kinds of dragons each specific to their meaning within the Chinese culture. One of these kinds is known as the winged celestial dragon which is recognizable around the world. Other not easily identifiable dragons are the Yellow and the Coiling dragons.
An accurate description of the Long dragon includes the feature of being a horned creature with the ears of a cow. Although unable to hear, this dragon is appreciated for its strength and power, as well as, for its rain producing ability.
The varieties of dragons differ primarily in the power they possess and their meaning relevant within the Chinese culture. The Yellow dragon in particular is said to be the source of nine sons.
The original Long dragon is believed to have five different stages of existence. The initial stage is that of the water snake. At this stage the dragon does not look like how we normally perceive them to be. It takes a thousand years for it to reach to the second stage which is known as the Chiao. At this stage the dragon looks like a carp.
The dragon's appearance during the next 5oo years after conception seems to evolve at a quick pace maturing into the Long Dragon. It begins to produce horns that are subsequently equated with intelligence and insight according to the Chinese folklore. After reaching the 2000 year mark it is then referred to as the Ying Long.
Traditionally the Chinese have a set of five sacred colors to represent the Long. These are black, white, yellow, red and blue. The use of colors is relative to the occasion and each stage and color has its own innate symbolism.
The concept of this Mythical creature came about from taking various characteristics and features from other earthly animals. Collectively, the body is reminiscent of a snake, its ears are the same as a cow's, its feet are of both a tiger's paw and hawk's claws, its horns from a stag and the eyes also demonic in appearance belong to a rabbit. The dragon's body texture is comprised of scales which mimics a fish.
The character and persona of a dragon has long been misunderstood. While Westerners perceive the dragon to be an aggressive and fearful creature, the Chinese belief is that a dragon is a passive, strong and admired symbol in the Chinese culture.
There are nine distinctive kinds of dragons each specific to their meaning within the Chinese culture. One of these kinds is known as the winged celestial dragon which is recognizable around the world. Other not easily identifiable dragons are the Yellow and the Coiling dragons.
An accurate description of the Long dragon includes the feature of being a horned creature with the ears of a cow. Although unable to hear, this dragon is appreciated for its strength and power, as well as, for its rain producing ability.
The varieties of dragons differ primarily in the power they possess and their meaning relevant within the Chinese culture. The Yellow dragon in particular is said to be the source of nine sons.
The original Long dragon is believed to have five different stages of existence. The initial stage is that of the water snake. At this stage the dragon does not look like how we normally perceive them to be. It takes a thousand years for it to reach to the second stage which is known as the Chiao. At this stage the dragon looks like a carp.
The dragon's appearance during the next 5oo years after conception seems to evolve at a quick pace maturing into the Long Dragon. It begins to produce horns that are subsequently equated with intelligence and insight according to the Chinese folklore. After reaching the 2000 year mark it is then referred to as the Ying Long.
Traditionally the Chinese have a set of five sacred colors to represent the Long. These are black, white, yellow, red and blue. The use of colors is relative to the occasion and each stage and color has its own innate symbolism.
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Chinese Dragon Festivals come in a variety of different styles. In case you are considering making a purchase you need to have a browse of our article about Chinese Dragon Statues.
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