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What are the Four Symbols in Feng Shui? Understanding the Significance of the Four Celestial Animals.

The Four Divine Beasts are revered in Feng Shui for their powerful symbolism and ability to bring harmony and prosperity. Delve into the fascinating world of these mythical creatures and uncover the secrets of their significance in the ancient art of Feng Shui.

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11 July, 2024

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What are the Four Divine Creatures in Feng Shui? This is a question often asked by those intrigued by the ancient practice of Feng Shui, curious about the lucky creatures and their significance. So, today, let’s delve into the world of these divine creatures and uncover their meanings.

1Unveiling the Four Divine Creatures

The Four Divine Creatures: Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise, and Phoenix

The Four Divine Creatures, or Tứ Linh, in Feng Shui are the Dragon (Long), Unicorn (Lân), Tortoise (Quy), and Phoenix (Phượng). These creatures have their origins in the four divine beings: Qing Long (Azure Dragon), Bai Hu (White Tiger), Xuan Wu (Black Tortoise), and Zhu Que (Vermilion Bird).

These four divine beings represent the four essential elements of nature: water, fire, earth, and wind. Each deity possesses unique powers and is tasked with guarding seven of the twenty-eight constellations in Chinese astronomy.

The images of the Four Divine Creatures are often used in decorations, temple sculptures, and pillar designs. They are highly valued for their intricate craftsmanship and artistic merit. Additionally, these divine creatures hold profound Feng Shui significance for those who incorporate them into their spaces.

2The Significance of the Four Divine Creatures in Feng Shui

The Four Divine Creatures are believed to bring a host of Feng Shui benefits to homeowners. Let’s explore the meaning of each creature and the blessings they bestow:

Dragon: Embodiment of Wealth and Career Success

The Dragon: Symbol of Wealth and Career Success

The Dragon, a majestic creature, leads the Four Divine Creatures and holds special significance. It represents the emperor and embodies the virtues of righteousness and authority. Thus, it was a common motif in the attire of ancient royalty.

In Feng Shui, the Dragon is also regarded as a deity that brings prosperity and abundance to farmers, ensuring lush crops and protecting them from droughts.

Image of a Dragon

Building a home on a site with vibrant dragon energy is believed to bring good fortune and blessings to future generations. Additionally, the Dragon symbol is used to balance Yin and Yang, rectify Feng Shui flaws, and enhance positive energy.

For those in business, the Dragon symbol signifies smooth sailing and remarkable career advancement. It is also an emblem of prosperity and vitality, making it a trusted symbol for many.

Unicorn: Symbol of Wisdom and Good Fortune

The Unicorn: Symbol of Wisdom and Good Fortune

The Unicorn is the second creature in the Four Divine Creatures, and its presence brings peace and prosperity.

In Feng Shui, the Unicorn is used to dispel bad luck, transform negative energy into positive, and attract good omens. Thus, a pair of Unicorns with their mouths wide open are often placed at the entrance of a home to ward off negative energy.

The Unicorn has the head of a dragon and the body of a beast. Upon closer inspection, its body resembles that of a deer with numerous scales. As a herbivore, the Unicorn is gentle and always ready to aid those in need. Its appearance foretells the coming of a sage who will bring aid and wisdom to the people.

Tortoise: Emblem of Longevity and Robust Health

The Tortoise: Emblem of Longevity and Robust Health

The Tortoise, also known as the turtle, is the only creature among the Four Divine Creatures that exists in reality. As a reptile with an exceptionally long lifespan and robust nature, it symbolizes longevity and transcendence.

The Tortoise’s body and belly represent the earth and Yin energy, while its curved shell, encompassing its entire body, symbolizes the sky and Yang energy—a unique blend of heaven and earth, Yin and Yang.

Phoenix: Symbol of Rebirth and Immortality

The Phoenix: Symbol of Rebirth and Immortality

The Phoenix is the final creature in the Four Divine Creatures and represents rebirth and immortality.

In Feng Shui, the Phoenix symbolizes the six celestial bodies: its head represents the sky, eyes the sun, back the moon, wings the wind, feet the earth, and tail the planets. Its feathers represent the five elements: gold (metal), green (wood), black (earth), white (water), and red (fire).

According to folklore, the Phoenix embodies the noble virtues of the Vietnamese people:

The Phoenix’s head stands for morality.
Its wings signify responsibility and duty.
The chest represents compassion and humanity.
The back reflects a skillful approach to social interactions.
Its belly indicates trustworthiness.

As the Phoenix symbolizes the fire element, placing its image in the wealth or fame sectors of a home is believed to attract good fortune, prosperity, and career advancement.

Notably, the Dragon and Phoenix together symbolize a harmonious union, bringing enduring happiness and luck. They were common motifs in the attire of ancient emperors and empresses.

We hope you found this exploration of the Four Divine Creatures and their Feng Shui significance enlightening. May these ancient creatures bring you good fortune and blessings!

Frequently asked questions

The Four Symbols, also known as the Four Celestial Animals, are the Dragon, Phoenix, Tiger, and Turtle in Feng Shui. Each symbol represents a different aspect of nature and has its own unique characteristics and significance. These symbols are often used in Feng Shui to bring balance and harmony to a space.

The Dragon is a powerful symbol of success, nobility, and prosperity. It is associated with the element of water and is believed to bring good luck and fortune. The Dragon is often used to enhance career success and attract wealth.

The Phoenix is a symbol of rebirth, transformation, and femininity. It represents the element of fire and is associated with the sun. The Phoenix is often used to bring positive change and new beginnings, as well as to enhance creativity and passion.

The Tiger is a symbol of protection, courage, and strength. It is associated with the element of wood and is believed to ward off negative energy and evil spirits. The Tiger is often used to bring courage and confidence, as well as to protect against harm and danger.

The Turtle is a symbol of longevity, stability, and endurance. It represents the element of earth and is associated with wisdom and good health. The Turtle is often used to bring harmony and balance to a space, as well as to enhance family relationships and promote a long life.