In traditional culture, what color represents water?
In traditional Chinese culture, the five basic elements – metal, wood, water, fire, and earth – each correspond to a color. Among them,Blue and black are often used to represent water. This is because in Chinese culture, both blue and black have a deep, serene quality that echoes the flow, depth, and life-nourishing power of water.
1. The meaning and application of blue.
Blue represents calmness, profundity, and wisdom in Chinese culture. In ancient times, blue was often used to symbolize the sky, the sea, and the surface of the water, as they were all blue. This color is also often used to represent the element of water, as both water and blue have a calm, deep quality. In Taoist thought, blue also represents the "rule of non-action", that is, the attitude of conforming to nature and not deliberately intervening.
Blue is also a very important color in traditional art. For example, in Chinese painting, blue is often used to depict landscapes, lakes, and oceans to express the tranquility and beauty of nature. In addition, blue was also often used in traditional clothing, especially in official costumes and the costumes of literati and scholars, to express elegance and wisdom.
Second, the meaning and application of black.
Black also has a rich symbolic meaning in Chinese culture. It represents mystery, solemnity, and power. In the five elements, black also corresponds to water. Black is often used to represent the element of water, because both water and black have a deep, quiet quality. In Taoist thought, black also represents the "Tao", the root and essence of all things in the universe.
In traditional art, black also has a wide range of applications. For example, in traditional Chinese architecture, black is often used to decorate parts such as roofs, lintels, and window frames to express the solemnity and mystery of the building. In addition, in traditional Chinese paintings, black is also often used to depict themes such as landscapes, flowers and birds, etc., to express the beauty and mystery of nature.
3. The relationship between water and blue and black.
In traditional Chinese culture, water is closely related to blue and black. What water has in common with blue and black is their deep, tranquil and life-nourishing qualities. Both blue and black can be used to represent the elements of water, as they both have similar properties and symbolic meanings to water.
In our daily lives, we can also feel the relationship between water and blue and black by observing things around us. For example, when we stand by the sea or lake, we can feel the tranquility, depth, and life-nourishing qualities of the water. This feeling echoes with the symbolism of blue and black, which gives us a deeper understanding of the essence of traditional Chinese culture.
Fourth, the relationship between water and the five elements.
In the Five Elements Doctrine, water is one of the basic elements, and it is interrelated with the other four elements – metal, wood, fire, and earth. The properties of water in the five elements are fluid, changing, and nourishing for life. Water is able to adapt to a variety of environments, constantly changing its shape, but always maintaining its essence. This property gives water a very special place and role in the five elements.
The position of water in the five elements is north, and the corresponding season is winter. In Bagua, the Kan hexagram represents water, which means the fluidity and variability of water. Water echoes black and blue, so in traditional art, blue and black are also often used to express the beauty and mystery of water.
5. Water and human life.
Water is of great importance in human life. It is the source of life and nourishes the growth of all things. In traditional Chinese culture, water is also endowed with many symbolic meanings. It is a symbol of wisdom because water is able to change its form in accordance with the laws of nature; It is also a symbol of wealth, as water represents mobility and variability. In addition, water also has the effect of cleansing the soul and purifying the soul, so many people choose to go to a place with beautiful mountains and rivers to practice or vacation.
In short, the status and role of water in traditional Chinese culture is very special. It is not only the source of life, but also a symbol of wisdom and a representation of wealth. By understanding the meaning and role of water in Chinese culture, we can better understand the essence and spiritual connotation of traditional Chinese culture. At the same time, it can also remind us to cherish water resources, protect the environment, maintain ecological balance, and contribute to the sustainable development of human society.