Among China's vast ancient documents, the Classic of Mountains and Seas has attracted the attention of countless scholars and enthusiasts with its unique charm and mysterious content. This ancient book not only records a large number of geographical mountains, rivers, plants, trees, birds and beasts, but also contains many bizarre and grotesque myths and legends, among which the image of Kui Long is particularly eye-catching.
Kui Long, also known as "Kui", is described in the "Classic of Mountains and Seas" as a strange beast that resembles a dragon but not a dragon, and a cow but not a cow. It is usually depicted as a one-legged, snake-body, bull-headed, with wings on its back, able to call wind and rain, and is the god of water and ** in ancient mythology. The image of the dragon is often seen in ancient Chinese art and literature, and has become an important symbol in Chinese culture.
The symbol of the dragon.
The legend of the dragon has a long history, and it was not only an important role in ancient witchcraft and religious ceremonies, but also a symbol of imperial power. It is mentioned in "Shangshu Shundian" that Emperor Shun once ordered Kui to be Lezheng and was responsible for harmonizing the court ** to harmonize the world. Therefore, Kuilong is also regarded as a representative of literature and art, symbolizing civilization and harmony.
In terms of cultural analysis, the image of Kui Long reflects the ancient people's awe of natural phenomena and curiosity about the unknown world. Its one foot may symbolize the connection between heaven and earth, the body of a snake represents flexibility and change, and the head of a bull may be associated with agricultural production, reflecting the ancient society's prayer for a good agricultural harvest. The wings of the dragon are the yearning for flight and freedom.
The Kui Long in the Classic of Mountains and Seas is not only an image of a mythical creature, but also carries rich cultural connotations and historical information. Through the study of the dragon, we can get a glimpse of the cosmology, values and aesthetic tastes of the ancient Chinese, as well as their observation and imagination of the natural world. The mysterious legend of Kuilong not only inspired the infinite reverie of future generations about the mythical world, but also became a witness to the inheritance and development of Chinese civilization.