Ill-understood by most is that many of the Chinese symbolisms originated from the fields of Feng Shui and astrology! Feng Shui and astrology are concerned with enhancing qi, the benevolent energy. This qi is usually associated with bright places. The good luck symbolisms are invariably bright ones, red being the best colour and black taboo.
One good luck symbolism which illustrates the Feng Shui and astrology origin is that of the "Golden Carp leaps the Dragon Gate." The carp is a common good luck symbol. During the Chinese New Year, it is mandatory to eat the flesh of the carp fish during meals. A special dish called "yee sang" would often be served during the Chinese New Year celebration. The dish consists of the raw flesh of the carp mixed with vegetable products symbolising the Four Seasons.
The "Golden Carp leaps the Dragon Gate" symbolises success in the imperial examinations, which was the traditional key to good life and riches. Although the "Dragon Gate" is said to be a river cataract, it also symbolises the gateway to the imperial palace where the emperor would wait to congratulate the successful top candidate.
This gateway is always at the South, the auspicious Feng Shui direction all entrances of traditional buildings faced. It is at outside to this South frontage that the river must flow, to get auspicious Feng Shui qi and blessings.
The emperor controls the four directions. Control it by facing the position towards the South. Qing Nang Jing 1.44 & 1.45
top
