Suzaku, god of the southSuzaku takes the form of a scarlet phoenix. He protects the country of Konan. In human form he has bright red hair and red eyes. He is the fourth god to be summoned. click here for a picture of Suzaku in human form

Seiryuu, god of the eastSeiryuu takes the form of a dragon. He protects the country of Kutou In human form, he has long blue hair and his ears are that of a dragon. He is the third god to be summoned. click here for a picture of Seiryuu in human form

Genbu, god of the northGenbu takes the form of a turtle and snake combined. He protects the country of Hokkan. Genbu is the first god summoned, over 200 years ago.

Byakko, god of the westByakko takes the form a of a white tiger. He protects the country of Saito. Byakko is the second god summoned about 90 years ago.

Behind the scenes--Astronomy

Although Suzaku, Seiryuu, Genbu, and Byakko are characters in a story, they were taken from ancient astronomy of China, and later Korea and Japan.

The sky is divided into four quadrants: one for each of the four cardinal directions and four seasons. They are: The Black Tortoise of Winter (North), The Azure Dragon of Spring (East), The Red Bird of Summer (South) and The White Tiger of Fall (West). There is also a fifth direction, 'center',being the earth. Each quadrant, or 'celestial palace' has seven sei shuku or 'moon stations', otherwise known as constellations. The sei shuku were determined roughly from the relative position of the moon against the stars.

Genbu, name of the god of the north in FY, is taken from the name of the celestial palace of the North. 'Black Tortoise' is a rough translation of 'Genbu' None of the names of the other gods of FY are taken from the names of their respective celestial palace in astronomy.

The assigning of the talismanic animals to the four seasons/directions is somewhat ambiguous. They were adapted over time and were also associated with the astrology of the different cultures. One interesting fact that is worth noting is that while the Red Bird of Summer and the Black Tortoise of Winter are aligned with the path of the sun during their season, the Azure Dragon of Spring and the White Tiger of Fall are opposite to the sun's path in their season. Analogous to this is the position of the Big Dipper. In the summer, the handle of the Big Dipper is pointing South which is the direction of the Red Bird of Summer. In the winter, the handle of the Big Dipper is pointing North, which is the direction of the Black Tortoise of Winter. However, in the Spring, the handle of the Big Dipper points to the East which is the direction of the White Tiger of Fall, and in the Fall, the handle points to the West, which is the direction of the Azure Dragon of Spring.

***information on the astronomy of China/Korea/Japan was found at Star Charts and Moon Stations This site also has lots of other great articles on astronomy. If you like astronomy, this is the place to go visit!

Magic Beasts of China and Magic beasts of the WestThe Chinese have 5 sacred beasts. Each of these beasts represent a different element and a different direction. These animals have a god level status and are the kings of their kinds. They represent power and luck. They are used for magic and blessings. They are found in temples, with the gods, in homes, paintings, everywhere.

They are the Lung (dragon), Xuanwu(black tortoise), Feng-Huang(phoenix), Ki-Lin(unicorn), and Baihu(white tiger). In the west, they loosly correspond to the dragon, phoenix, unicorn, lion and sacred bull. There are numerous other sacred beasts, but these are the most primal to use.

The Lung. He is a symbol of rain, weather, water, spring and the east. It is the guardian of

the emperor and the city of Kyoto. It is a part of the Chinese zodiac and is a constellation in

the sky. It is a symbol of yang, the positive and masculine energies of the universe. They

are generally benevolent. The Lung are full of power, and the only animal that is their

equal would be the white tiger. Some well known dragons are the four dragon kings,

worshipped as the gods of weather, the yellow dragon that is the symbol of the Emperor of

China and the Azure dragon, a great warrior of the heavens.

The western dragon is seen more as a symbol of fire and power. They are usually

malevolent and slaying them represents the climax of a heroes quest. They are greedy and

love gold and beautiful virginal girls. Their blood gifts heroes with power or knowledge.

They usually lair in large caves, symbolizing their connection with the Earth. They are

variously described as children of the gods or of the prime creator/creatrix(like Tiamat) or

as cursed individuals (like Fafnir.) Their ferocious temperment and power got them

identified with Satan in the Christian mythos and because of that they were demonized

even more as the symbols of sin. But, they can be used for good as well. The Welsh turned

the red dragon into their symbol. In the pagan community dragons are regarded now as

guardians of knowledge and so must be contended with to learn more advanced

techniques. They are seen as forces of nature and the epitome of natural power

The Fenghuang is actually 2 immortal birds. The male is the Feng, and the female is the

huang. Together they represent harmony and marriage. Over time, the fenghuang came to

symbolize the Yin, the female energies of the universe, and so became a symbol of the

empress to balance out the Yang of the Lung(dragon.) The 2 birds are now usually depicted

as single female entity. They came to be identified with fire and the south direction and is

called the King of birds. It is a symbol of grace and virtue, justice, the sun and the power of

heavens sent to man.

The phoenix has become very well known in the west. It is a symbol of rebirth, rising from

the ashes of it's own destruction. It used to be a symbol of the sun, but has also become a

symbol of fire. It is the king of birds and can live for a thousand years before it needs to

immolate itself. It is a much loved and well remembered symbol. The church took this beast

as a symbol of Christs resurrection and so it was saved from demonification (poor dragon.)

The phoenix was given a power boost by the comic book characte Jean Grey, when it

became a creature made of all the psychic energy in creation and a cosmic entity, giving it

a cult status among fans.

The kilin is the symbol of grace, speed, wisdom and the wind, for it is able to walk across

grass without bending a blade and can walk swifter than any animal and can even walk

across water. After the Lung and the Fenghuang, it is the third ranked beast. It is the

herald of sages and benevolent rulers. One came to Confucius' mother, and told her she

would have a son that would be "a king without a crown." It also used to be sighted during

the reign of great emperors and kings. The Kilin looks like a mix of dragon and deer

covered with flames and bearing a single horn, but is not feirce at all. While is usually a

pacifist, and a vegetarian, it will spout flames from its mouth to punish those whom sin.

The unicorn is a symbol of raw nature, purity, healing and virginity. The unicorn can heal

poisons and will protect innocense. It is not a horse with a horn! It has a head like a horse,

with a goats beard, a deers body, a lions tail, cloven hooves(like a goat) and a single horn

upon its head. In classical times, the Unicorn was simply thought of as a fierce exotic

animal, it wasn't until the medieval times that it got it's power and beauty. The unicorn has

both pagan and christian associations. The Catholics saw it as a symbol of Christ and gave

the name of a herd of unicorns a "Blessing" of Unicorns (like a murder or crows.) The

pagans saw it as raw, pure nature. The unicorn hunt is a symbol of taming that power, but

also of destroying purity. The unicorn was kind to those who were pure, virginal and

peaceful, but was a fierce warrior to those whom would harm it or those it regarded as

pure. The enemy of the unicorn is the lion, both of whom are symbols of England.

Baihu, the white tiger. The king of beasts and the strongest of all, able to equal the power

of the dragon. He represents the dark, negative yin, to the dragons postive, good yang. He

was not evil though and would appear to a ruler when he ruled with absolute virtue. He is

the lord of the west and is connected to the element of metal. He represents the fall, when

the world is dying, but I have also seen him represent winter and the cold.

In the west we do have a creature similar to the White Tiger, it is the Lion(also called Lyon in Medieval times.) He is the king of all beasts. He is a great leader and warrior, symbol of

kings, strength and the sun. But he can also be cruel, as when he attacks the unicorn.

The Xuanwu, black tortoise, is the symbol of the north. He represents the earth in some cosmologies, in others he is the water. He is actually two entities, the tortoise and the

snake. At times he is pictured as chimeara like beast, with a turtles body and head, but a long snake tail (with its own head.) Other times it is depicted as a tortoise with a dragons

head, with or without the snake tail. It is the symbol of guardians and warriors, and also of longevity and good fortune.

The only other animal that is widly known and worshipped in the west that could roughly correspond to the Xuanwu would be the sacred bull. The sacred bull is a symbol of the earth, of fertility and of life. It is also a symbol of the maculine forces of creation and of virility. They have had cults all over the West and some parts of the East, with Hindus being the only people in the world that still openly worship and/or adore it. It has been thought of as a blessed beast by most pagans, but at times also demonized. The Greeks demonized the sacred bulls of the Minoans into the Minotaur, while the Jews demonized

the sacred bull into form of the golden calf. Most pagans in modern times think of the bull as a symbol of the horned lord or nature.

With these beasts being sacred in the East and adorning their temples and altars, I feel that they should regain so much more importance in the west. I know many pagans adorn their altars with dragons, but they should also think of the other beasts here. I have had the phoenix be part of my spiritual life for a while now. I know many people love the unicorn, but many think of it as a girlish symbol or as childish. Break out of the box and think of them as beasts of power to be honored and respected.

The Four Symbols, Five Cardinal Directions, and Four Legendary Beasts

The Four Symbols (Chinese: 四象; pinyin: Sì Xiàng) are four mythological creatures in the Chinese constellations. They are:

Azure Dragon of the East (青龍)

Vermillion Bird of the South (朱雀)

White Tiger of the West (白虎)

Black Tortoise of the North (玄武)

Each one of them represents a direction and a season of the year, and each has its own individual characteristics and origins. They have been portrayed in many historical Chinese and Korean myths and fiction, and also appear in many modern Japanese comic books and animation.

These Four Symbols were given human names after Daoism became popular. Azure Dragon has the name Meng Zhang 孟章; Vermilion Bird is Ling Guang 陵光; White Tiger is Jian Bing 監兵; Black Tortoise is Zhi Ming 執明.

A Han-dynasty pottery tile emblematically representing the 5 cardinal directionsEach of these mythological creatures has also been synthesized into the 5 element system:

Azure Dragon of the East (青龍): Wood

Vermilion Bird of the South (朱雀): Fire

White Tiger of the West (白虎): Metal

Black Tortoise of the North (玄武): Water

Additionally, there is a fifth legendary beast, Huáng-lóng (黃龍), or the Yellow Dragon of the Center. The cardinal direction associated with this animal is "centre," and its element is Earth.

The four legendary beasts (excluding Huáng-lóng; see above) represent a season each. The seasons they represent are as follows:

Azure Dragon of the East (青龍): Spring

Vermilion Bird of the South (朱雀): Summer

White Tiger of the West (白虎): Autumn/Fall

Black Tortoise of the North (玄武): Winter

The Azure Dragon is one of the Four Symbols of the Chinese constellations. It is sometimes called the Azure Dragon of the East (simplified Chinese: 东方青龙; traditional Chinese: 東方青龍; pinyin: Dōng Fāng Qīng Lóng, or sometimes simplified Chinese: 东方苍龙; traditional Chinese: 東方蒼龍; pinyin: Dōng Fāng Cāng Lóng), and it is known as Seiryuu in Japan and Cheongryong in Korea. It represents the east and the spring season. It should not be confused with the mythological yellow dragon that is associated with the Emperor of China.

Like the other Four Symbols, the Azure Dragon corresponds to seven "mansions", or positions, of the moon.

Horn (Chinese: 角; pinyin: Jiăo)

Neck (Chinese: 亢; pinyin: Kàng)

Root (Chinese: 氐; pinyin: Dĭ)

Room (Chinese: 房; pinyin: Fáng)

Heart (Chinese: 心; pinyin: Xīn)

Tail (Chinese: 尾; pinyin: Wěi)

Winnowing Basket (Chinese: 箕; pinyin: Jī)

In the novel Shuo Tang Yanyi (Tales of Tang Dynasty), the reincarnation of the White Tiger's Star is said to be Li Shimin's general Luo Cheng (羅 成 / 罗 成) and the reincarnation of the Azure Dragon's Star is said to be the rebellious general Dan Xiongxin (單 雄信 / 单 雄信). They two are sworn brothers of Qin Shubao (秦 叔寶 / 秦叔宝), Cheng Zhijie (程 知節 / 程知节) and Yuchi Jingde (尉遲 敬德 / 尉迟敬德). Their souls after death are said to possess the body of the new heroes of the Tang Dynasty and the Liao Dynasty, Xue Rengui (薛 仁貴 / 薛仁贵) and He Suwen (郃 苏文)

In some legends of the Tang Dynasty's general Xue Rengui, he's said the reincarnation of the White Tiger's Star. And his archenemy, Liao Dynasty general He Suwen is the reincarnation of the Azure Dragon's Star.

In Japan, the Azure Dragon (Seiryuu) is one of the four guardian spirits of cities and is said to protect the city of Kyoto on the east. The west is protected by the White Tiger, the north is protected by the Black Tortoise, the south is protected by the Vermilion Bird, and the center is protected by the Yellow Dragon. In Kyoto there are temples dedicated to each of these guardian spirits. The Azure Dragon is represented in the Kiyomizu Temple in eastern Kyoto. Before the entrance of the temple there is a statue of the dragon which is said to drink from the waterfall within the temple complex at nighttime. Therefore each year a ceremony is held to worship the dragon of the east.

In 1983, the Kitora Tomb was found in the village of Asuka. All four guardians were painted on the walls (in the corresponding directions) and a system of the constellations was painted on the ceiling. This is one of the few ancient records of the four guardians.

The Vermilion bird is one of the Four Symbols of the Chinese constellations. According to Wu Xing, the Taoist five-elemental system, it represents the fire-element, the direction south, and the season summer correspondingly. Thus it is sometimes called the Vermilion bird of the South (南方朱雀, Nán Fāng Zhū Què) and it is also known as Suzaku in Japan and Jujak in Korea. It is often mistaken for the Fenghuang due to similarities in appearance, but the two are different creatures.[citation needed] The Fenghuang (Similar to the phoenix in western mythologies) are legendary ruler of birds associated with the Chinese Empress in the same way the dragon is associated with the Emperor, while the Vermilion Bird is a mythological spirit creature of the Chinese constellations.

Like the other Four Symbols, the Vermilion Bird corresponds to seven "mansions", or positions, of the moon.

Well (Chinese: 井; pinyin: Jǐng)

Ghost (Chinese: 鬼; pinyin: Guǐ)

Willow (Chinese: 柳; pinyin: Liǔ)

Star (Chinese: 星; pinyin: Xīng)

Extended Net (Chinese: 張; pinyin: Zhāng)

Wings (Chinese: 翼; pinyin: Yì)

Chariot (Chinese: 軫; pinyin: Zhěn)

The Vermilion bird is an elegant and noble bird in both appearance and behavior, it is very selective in what it eats and where it perches, with its feathers in many different hues of reddish orange. The Vermilion bird is often associated with the mythical Phoenix due to their associations with fire.

The White Tiger is one of the Four Symbols of the Chinese constellations. It is sometimes called the White Tiger of the West (西方白虎, Xī Fāng Bái Hǔ), and is known as Byakko in Japan and Baekho in Korea. It represents the west and the autumn season.

Like the other Four Symbols, the White Tiger corresponds to seven "mansions", or positions, of the moon.

Legs (Chinese: 奎; pinyin: Kuí) Bond (Chinese: 婁; pinyin: Lóu)

Stomach (Chinese: 胃; pinyin: Wèi)

Hairy Head (Chinese: 昴; pinyin: Mǎo)

Net (Chinese: 畢; pinyin: Bì)

Turtle Beak (Chinese: 觜; pinyin: Zī)

Three Stars (Chinese: 參; pinyin: Shēn)

During the Han Dynasty, people believed the tiger to be the king of all beasts. Legend had it that when a tiger reached 500 years old, its tail would turn white. In this way, the white tiger became a kind of mythological creature. It was said that the white tiger would only appear when the emperor ruled with absolute virtue, or if there was peace throughout the world. Because the color white of the Chinese five elements also represents the west, the white tiger thus became a mythological guardian of the west.

In the novel Shuo Tang Yanyi (Tales of Tang Dynasty), the reincarnation of White Tiger's Star is said to be Li Shimin's general Luo Cheng (羅 成) and the reincarnation of Azure Dragon's Star is said to be the rebellious general Dan Xiongxin (單 雄信). They two are sworn brothers of Qin Shubao (秦 叔寶), Cheng Zhijie (程 知節) and Yuchi Jingde (尉遲 敬德). Their souls after death are said to possess the body of the new heroes of Tang Dynasty and Liao Dynasty, Xue Rengui (薛 仁貴) and He Suwen (郃 苏文).

In some legends of the Tang Dynasty's general Xue Rengui, he is said to be the reincarnation of the White Tiger's Star, and his archenemy, the Liao Dynasty's prince He Suwen is the reincarnation of the Azure Dragon's Star.

The Black Tortoise is one of the Four Symbols of the Chinese constellations. The word for "tortoise" was taboo; and the entire entity is not just the tortoise itself, but both the tortoise and the snake. It is sometimes called the Black Warrior of the North (北方玄武, Běi Fāng Xuán Wǔ), and is known as Genbu in Japan and Hyeonmu in Korea. It represents the north and the winter season. Although its name in Chinese, Xuánwǔ, is often translated as Black Tortoise in English, it is usually depicted as both a tortoise and a snake, specifically with the snake coiling around the tortoise.

Like the other Four Symbols, the Black Tortoise corresponds to seven "mansions", or positions, of the moon.

Dipper (Chinese: 斗; pinyin: Dǒu)

Ox (Chinese: 牛; pinyin: Niú)

Girl (Chinese: 女; pinyin: Nǚ)

Emptiness (Chinese: 虛; pinyin: Xū)

Rooftop (Chinese: 危; pinyin: Wēi)

Encampment (Chinese: 室; pinyin: Shì)

Wall (Chinese: 壁; pinyin: Bì)

In ancient China, the tortoise and the snake were thought to be spiritual creatures symbolising longevity. During the Han Dynasty, people often wore jade pendants that were in the shape of tortoises. Because of ancient Chinese influence on Japan, honorific titles and badges in Japan often referred to the tortoise or images of tortoises.

In the classic novel, Journey to the West, Xuánwǔ was a king of the north who had two generals serving under him, a "Tortoise General" and a "Snake General." This king had a temple at Wudang Mountains in Hubei, thus there is a "Tortoise Mountain" and a "Snake Mountain" on the opposite sides of a river in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei.

In Taoist legend it was said that Xuánwǔ was the prince of a Chinese Emperor. However, he was not interested in taking the throne, but decided to study in Tao's way. At age 16, he left his parents to search for enlightenment in Tao's way. It was said that he eventually achieved god status and was worshipped as a god of northern sky.

A Xuanwu sculpture from the Yongle Emperor era, from the collection of the Hubei Provincial MuseumOther Chinese legends also speak of how the "Tortoise General" and a "Snake

General" came to be. During Xuánwǔ's study to achieve enlightenment and god status he was told that in order to fully achieve god status, he must purge all humanly flesh from his body. Since he was born he had been eating the food of the world, humanly food, therefore his stomach and intestines were still human. Legend told of an event that a god came and changed out his human stomach and intestines for a godly body so he could fully achieve god status. (It was also said that the stomach and intestines that were tossed out became the "Tortoise Mountain" and "Snake Mountain".) The stomach and intestines taken out by the god who did the surgery on Xuánwǔ were said to have taken on the shape of a tortoise (stomach) and a snake (intestines). As many Chinese legends speak of certain animals becoming demons over time as they gain knowledge, that's what the tortoise and snake became, and terrorized people. As Xuánwǔ, now in his god status, heard of this, he came and slayed the demons from his past. However, he did not kill them, as the snake and tortoise demons showed remorse. He let them train under him and atone for their wrong doings, and they became the "Tortoise General" and "Snake General", and they assisted Xuánwǔ with his quests.

According to another source, once Xuánwǔ's had begun study of the way, he discovered that he must purge himself of all his past sins to become a god. He learned to achieve this by washing his stomach and bowels (intestines) in the river. In the washing of his internal organs, his sins melted from them and into the river in a dark, black form. These then formed into a black tortoise and snake who terrorized the people. Once Xuánwǔ learned of this, he returned to conquer the forms of this past sins and subdue them under himself and they became his servants.

Huang Long (黃龍，黄龙 or 黄竜, Yellow Dragon, Mandarin: huang2 long2, Cantonese: wong4 lung4, Japanese: Kōryū or Ōryū, Korean: Hwang-Ryong, Vietnamese: Hoàng Long) is a hornless dragon who once emerged from the River Luo and presented the legendary Emperor Fu Xi with the elements of writing. According to legend, when it appeared before Fu Xi, it filled a hole in the sky made by the monster Gong Gong. Its waking, sleeping and breathing determined day and night, season and weather.

In East Asian culture, there is sometimes a fifth Guardian Beast of the Si Ling. This deity is the guardian of the center and it represents the element earth, the Chinese quintessence, as well as the changing of the seasons.

Huang Long does not appear in Japanese mythology: the fifth element in the Japanese elemental system is Void, so there cannot be an animal representing it. Because of this, Huang Long is often forgotten. However, some consider the Ouryu (Ōryū, yellow dragon) as the Japanese counterpart of Huang Long since they share some similarities.

At the end of his reign, the first legendary Emperor Huang Di was said to have been immortalized into a dragon that resembled his emblem, and ascended to Heaven. Since the Chinese consider Huang Di as their ancestor, they sometimes refer to themselves as "the descendants of the dragon". This legend also

contributed towards the use of the Chinese dragon as a symbol of imperial power.

The story of the Four Gods of Heaven and Earth, the Shi Jin Ten Chi Sho, is not something that was made up for Fushigi Yuugi by Watase Yuu. The myth of the Four Gods has been deeply rooted in ancient Chinese mythology. The following are exerpts from Derek Walters' "An Encyclopedia of Myth and Legend: Chinese Mythology" and Donald A. Mackenzie's "Myths of China and Japan."

Creation Myth"Nu Kwa, a mythical empress of China, was reputed to have become a goddess after she had passed to the celestial regions...When the demons of water and fire, aided by rebel generals of her empire, set out to destroy the world, Nu Kwa waged war against them. Her campaign was successful, but not until a gigantic warrior had partly destroyed the heavens by upsetting one of its pillars and the flood had covered a great portion of the earth. The empress stemmed the rising waters by means of charred reeds, and afterwards rebuilt the broken pillar...Thereafter she created the guardians of the four quarters, placing the Black Tortoise in the north, and giving it control over winter; the Blue Dragon in the east, who was given control over spring; the White Tiger in the west, who was given control over autumn; and the Red Bird in the south, who was given control over summer, with the Gold Dragon, whose special duty was to guard the sun, the moon being protected by the White Deity of the west. The broken pillar of heaven was built up with stones coloured like the five gods (Mackenzie)."

Celestial Emblems"The Four Directions, East, South, West and North, represent the four seasons, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. Together with the Centre, which in Chinese is synonymous with China itself, they form the five cardinal points. The Four Directions have been represented at least since the second century BC, by four celestial animals, the Dragon for the East, the Bird for the South, the Tiger for the West, and the Tortoise for the North. Each animal has its own colour: the Dragon is the Green of Spring, the Bird the red of Fire, the Tiger of Autumn the glittering white of metal (of ploughshares or swords), and the Tortoise Black, for night, or water. The four celestial animals, which have no connection with the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, are also the names of the four divisions of the sky. The Dragon's Heart, the Pleiades, and the Bird Star are the names of three of the lunar mansions which marked the central

position of the Dragon, Tiger and Bird. As there was no identifying star at the centre of the Black Tortoise, the appropriate place (the eleventh mansion) was called Void (Walters)."

click for bigger version

Star Map of the 28 star lodgings and the centre Star Guide of the 28 star lodgings

Dragon

"East - the Blue Dragon, Spring, Wood; Planet, Jupiter; liver and gall(Mackenzie)."

"One of the oldest symbolic animals, stylized forms of which are a feature of the decoration of ancient bronzes cast before the invention of writing. In complete contrast to Western mythology, however, Dragons are rarely depicted as malevolent. They may be fearsome and very powerful, and all stand in awe of the dragon-kings, but they are equally considered just, benevolent, and the bringers of wealth and good fortune. There are, of course, legends of the various immortals battling against evil dragons, but such monsters would be foreign ones. Local dragons are to be respected, feared, and petitioned as one would petition a just and honest ruler. For this reason, the dragon symbol is the sign of authority, being worn on the robes of the Imperial family and nobility.Dragons are generally considered to be aquatic, living in lakes, rivers and the sea, the larger the expanse of water, the more powerful the dragon. Nevertheless, there are dragons which inhabit the heavens, one quarter of the sky being called the Palace of the Green Dragon, in reference to the stars which in Chinese astronomy constitute the constellation of the Dragon. Even so, the appearance of the Dragon constellation is said to herald the rainy season (Walters)."

Phoenix

"South - the Red Bird, Summer, Fire, the Sum; Planet, Mars; heart and large intestines (Mackenzie)."

(i know this should be the Red Bird section, but since Suzaku is more like a Phoenix i'd thought i'd add this instead. also, there was nothing on the Red Bird at all.)"Phoenix is used as a translation for Feng, or Feng Huang, the sacred bird of Chinese mythology. It has many miraculous attributes, but not self-rejuvenation, and does not posess the Arabian phoenix's propensity for self-immolation. It is usually portrayed as a beautiful bird, virtually identical to an ornamental pheasant. Few illustrations match its verbal description, as it is said to have the front of a swan, the hinder parts of a unicorn, the throat of a swallow, the bill of a chicken, the neck of a snake, the stripes of a dragon, and the arched back of a tortoise. Its plumage is of the five mystical colours - black, white, red, green and yellow, and it has twelve tail feathers, execept in years when there is an extra month, when there are thirteen. It feeds on bamboo seeds, lives in the branches of the dryandera tree, and drinks from fountains of fresh water.It is one of the four emblems of royalty, usually associated with the Empress. The expression Dragon and Phoenix signifies wedded bliss. In many respects its symbolism has been confused and merged with that of the Red Bird, one of the four Celestial Emblems (Walters)."

Tiger

"West - the White Tiger, Autumn, Wind, Metal; Planet, Venus; lungs and small intestine (Mackenzie)."

This is all i could find on the white tiger, i'll keep looking..."...The White Tiger of the West, for instance, is associated with metal. When, therefore, metal is placed in a grave, a ceremonial connection with the tiger-god is effected. 'According to the Annals of Wu and Yueh, three days after the burial of the king, the essence of the element metal assumed the shape of a white tiger and crouched down on the top of the grave.' Here the tiger is a protector - a preserver....As we have seen, white jade was used when the Tiger god of the West was worshipped; it is known as 'tiger jade'; a tiger was depicted on the jade symbol. To the Chinese the tiger was the king of all animals and 'lord of the mountains', and the tiger-jade ornament was specially researved for commanders of armies. The male tiger was, among other things, the god of war, and in this capacity it not only assisted the armies

of the emperors, but fought the demons that threatened the dead in their graves (Mackenzie)."

Tortoise

North - the Black Tortoise, Winter, Cold, Water; Planet, Mercury; kidneys and bladder (Mackenzie)."

In recent times, the tortoise was supplanted by the "Black Warrior" symbolism."One of the Celestial Emblems, the symbol of longevity and wisdom. It is said that its shell represents the vault of the universe. A common symbol for longevity is the Tortoise and Snake, whose union was thought to have engendered the universe.The reason why the tortoise symbolism has been superseded by the Black Warrior as the emblem of the North, is probably due to the fact that 'tortoise' is a term of abuse (Walters)."

"In China the tortoise had divine attributes. Tortoise shell is a symbol of unchangeability, and a symbol or rank when used for court girdles. The tortoise was also used for purposes of divination.A gigantic mythical tortoise is supposed, in the Far East, to live in the depths of ocean. It has one eye situated in the middle of its body. Once every three thousand years it rises to the surface and turns over on its back so that it may see the sun (Mackenzie)."

Jp. = Shishin 四神; Chn. = Sì Shòu 四獸Four Guardians of the Four Compass Directions

Celestial Emblems of the Chinese Emperor Shishin 四神. Also read Shijin. Also known in Japan

as the Shijū 四獣, Shishō 四象, or Shirei 四霊.

Origin = China

Click images to jump to specific creatures.

Tortoise (Black Warrior) = North, Winter, Black, WaterWhite Tiger (Kirin) = West, Fall, White, Metal

Red Bird (Phoenix) = South, Summer, Red, FireDragon = East, Spring, Blue/Green, Wood

In Japan, the four creatures havebeen supplanted by the SHITENNO

Lit. = Four Heavenly Kings (of Buddhism)Four Guardians of the Four Compass Directions.

Associated closely with China’s Five Element Theory.

 

HISTORICAL NOTESAt the heart of Chinese mythology are four spiritual creatures (Sì Shòu 四獸) -- four celestial emblems -- each guarding a direction on the compass. In China, the four date back to at least the 2nd century BC. Each creature has a corresponding season, color, element, virtue, and other traits. Further, each corresponds to a quadrant in the sky, with each quadrant containing seven seishuku, or star constellations (also called the 28 lunar mansions or lodges; for charts, see this outside site ). Each of the four groups of seven is associated with one of the four celestial creatures. There was a fifth direction -- the center, representing China itself -- which carried its own seishuku. In Japan, the symbolism of the four creatures appears to have merged with and been supplanted by the Shitenno (Four Heavenly Kings). The latter four are the Buddhist guardians of the four directions who serve Lord Taishakuten (who represents the center), and are closely associated with China’s Theory of Five Elements. In any case, the four animals are much more prevalent in artwork in China than in Japan, although in Japan one can still find groupings of the four creatures. The four were probably introduced to Japan from China sometime in the 7th century AD, for their images are found on the tomb walls at Takamatsuzuka 高松塚 in Nara, which was built sometime in theAsuka period (600 - 710 AD). They are also found on the base of the Yakushi Triad 薬師三尊像 at Yakushi-ji Temple 薬師寺, also in Nara.

SHISHIN 四神. Below Text Courtesy JAANUSAncient Chinese mythical animals associated with the four cardinal directions: green/blue dragon (Chn: Qinglong 青龍, Jp: Seiryuu) of the east; white tiger (Chn: Baihu 白虎, Jp: Byakko) of the west; red phoenix(Ch: Zhuque 朱雀, Jp: Suzaku) of the south; and black warrior (Chn: Xuan Wu 玄武, Jp: Genbu) of the north, a tortoise-like chimera with the head and tail of a serpent. The pictorial theme developed around the Warring States to Early Han period in China. Frequently painted on the walls of early Chinese and Korean tombs, the animals served primarily an apotropaic function warding off evil spirits. In Japan notable examples of the shishin are found on the walls of the tomb chamber in the tumulus Takamatsuzuka 高松塚 of the Asuka period, and on the base of the Yakushi Triad, Yakushi Sansonzō 薬師三尊像 at Yakushiji Temple 薬師寺, both in Nara.

Exerpt from “Chinese Mythology:An Encyclopedia of Myth and Legend”by Derek Walters. ISBN: 1855380803 

"The Four Directions, East, South, West and North, represent the four seasons, Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. Together with the Center, which in Chinese is synonymous with China itself, they form the five cardinal points. The Four Directions have been represented at least since the second century BC by four celestial animals, the Dragon for the East, the Bird for the South, the Tiger for the West, and the Tortoise for the North. Each animal has its own color: the Dragon is the Green of Spring, the Bird the red of Fire, the Tiger of Autumn the glittering white of metal (of ploughshares or swords), and the Tortoise Black, for night, or water. The four celestial animals, which have no connection with the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, are also the names of the four divisions of the sky. The Dragon's Heart, the Pleiades, and the Bird Star are the names of three of the lunar mansionswhich marked the central position of the Dragon, Tiger and Bird. As there was no identifying star at the centre of the Black Tortoise, the appropriate place (the eleventh mansion) was called Void.” 

Phoenix vs. Red Bird, Ch’i-lin (Kirin) vs. White Tiger. Why the Confusion ? In the same book, Walters explains: “However, it seems that before the adoption of the Four Celestial Emblems, there were only three -- the Feng Bird (or Phoenix), the Dragon, and the Ch’i-lin (or unicorn). Bronze mirrors usually portray cosmological patterns and symbolism on the back. Those of the Tang period (618 - 906 AD) show all twelve, or sometimes the 28 or even 36 animals of the Chinese Zodiac, and those of an earlier period depict the four celestial emblems referred to above. But the very earliest mirrors show only the three: the Ch’i-lin, the Feng-huang, and the Dragon. Because of the astronomical significance, the White Tiger replaced the Ch’i-lin, and the Phoenix gave way to the Red Bird, which is of uncertain identity. Thus the Tortoise was a later but not the last addition, for many mystical texts refer to the northern constellation not as the tortoise, but as the Black Warrior.”  < end quote from Derek Walters >  

NOTE: The Chinese Ch’i-lin is known in Japan as KIRIN. Many web sites replace the White Tiger with the mythological KIRIN in groupings of the four animals. Many web sites also list the Phoenix, not the Red Bird, as the celestial emblem of the south. This confusion is entirely forgivable, as the composition of this group of four has changed over the centuries to reflect ever-changing traditions.

Attributes of the Four

China and Japan Myths and Legendsby Donald A. Mackenzie; ISBN: 1851700161

Dragon. East, Spring, Wood, Planet Jupiter, liver & gall Red Bird (Phoenix). South, Summer, Fire, Planet Mars; heart and large intestines White Tiger. West, Autumn, Wind, Metal, Planet Venus, lungs and small intestine Tortoise. North, Black, Winter, Cold, Water, Planet Mercury, kidneys and bladder 

EAST - THE DRAGONJump to Main Dragon Page for More DetailsDragon; Ryū (Ryu) 龍 or Seiryū (Seiryu) 青龍 in Japan, Qinglong in China. A mythological animal of Chinese origin, and a member of the NAGA (Sanskrit) family of serpentine creatures who protect Buddhism. Japan’s dragon lore comes predominantly from China. Images of the reptilian dragon are found throughout Asia, and the pictorial form most widely recognized today was already prevalent in Chinese ink paintings in the Tang period (9th century). The mortal enemy of the dragon is the bird-man Karura and the Phoenix. Please visit the main DRAGON page to learn much more.

The dragon corresponds to the season spring, the color green/blue, the element wood, and the virtue propriety; supports and maintains the country (controls rain, symbol of the Emperor’s power). Often paired with the Phoenix, for the two represent both conflict and wedded bliss. In both China and Japan, Dragon and Phoenix symbolism is associated closely with the imperial family -- the emperor (dragon) and the empress (phoenix). 

Represents the yang principle; often portrayed surrounded by water or clouds. In Chinese mythology, there are five types of dragon: (1) the celestial dragons who guard the abodes of the gods; (2) dragon spirits, who rule over wind and rain but can also cause flooding; (3) earth dragons, who cleanse the rivers and deepen the oceans; (4) treasure-guarding dragons; and (5) imperial dragons, those with five claws instead of the usual four. 

The dragon is a mythical creature resembling a snake -- reflecting its membership in the NAGA (Sanskrit) family of serpentine creatures. It is also a member of the Hachi Bushu (the eight protectors of Buddhism). Dragons are said to be shape shifters, and may assume human form. In contrast to Western mythology, dragons are rarely depicted as malevolent. Although fearsome and powerful, they are equally considered just, benevolent, and the bringers of wealth and good fortune. Click here for much more on the Asian dragon.

Editor’s Note. Despite the dragon’s close association with water and the watery realm, in the Shishin Grouping of Four Celestial Emblems (this page), the dragon is associated with the element WOOD. The turtle is associated with the element WATER. See Five Elements.

The Dragon’s seven seishuku are:

1. Su Boshi2. Ami Boshi3. Tomo Boshi4. Soi Boshi5. Nakago Boshi6. Ashitare Boshi7. Mi Boshi

Learn more about the Dragon’s seven constellations (this site). 

See Dragon star charts at this outside site. 

Jump to Dragon Main Page

SOUTH -- THE SUZAKU (aka THE PHOENIX)Red Bird, Big Bird, Suzaku, PhoenixJump to Main Phoenix Page for More DetailsChinese = Zhū Qiǎo 朱雀 or Zhū Niǎo 朱鳥Korean = Chujak 주작Japanese = Suzaku, Sujaku, Shujaku 朱雀Japanese = Shuchō 朱鳥 or Suchō, Akamitori, Akamidori; aka the Vermillion Bird. Shuchō was also a Japanese era name for a few months between 686 and 687 AD. 

In Japan, the term “Suzaku”  is translated as “Red Bird” or “Vermillion Chinese Phoenix.” In both Japan and China, the symbolism of the red bird seems nearly identical to or merged with that of the mythologicalPhoenix. At this site, I consider the Suzaku and the Phoenix to be the same magical creature, although I am not certain if this is entirely true. Scholar Derek Walters (see resources) says the Phoenix was supplanted (replaced) by the Red Bird, for the Red Bird more accurately reflected the astronomical iconography associated with the southern lunar mansions. 

Corresponds to summer, red, fire, and knowledge; makes small seeds grow into giant trees (need to give source). Often paired with the dragon, for the two represent both conflict and wedded bliss; dragon(emperor) and phoenix (empress). Portrayed with radiant feathers, and an enchanting song; only appears in times of good fortune. Within the ancient Imperial Palace in Japan, there was a gate known as Suzakumon朱雀門 (Red Bird Gate). See JAANUS for a few more details on this gate. 

Suzaku’s seven seishuku (constellations) are:

1. Chichiri Boshi (Chn. = Ching 井)2. Tamahome Boshi (Chn. = Kuei 鬼)3. Nuriko Boshi (Chn. = Liu 柳)4. Hotohori Boshi (Chn. = Hsing 星)5. Chiriko Boshi (Chn. = Chang 張)6. Tasuki Boshi (Chn. = Yi 翼)7. Mitsukake Boshi (Chn. = Chen 軫)

* Learn more about the Red Bird’s seven constellations (this site).* See star charts for the Red Bird at this outside link.

The Red Bird of the South (Suzaku)Found on tomb wall at Kitora Kofun

http://www2.gol.com/users/stever/kitora.htmPhoto courtesy Research Institute for Cultural Properties, Nara 

Archaeological dating places its construction to theAsuka period (7th to early 8th centuries)

 Suzaku, The Red Bird, Modern Drawing. Available for Online Purchase

WEST - THE WHITE TIGERJpn = Byakko 白虎, Chn = Baihu. Guards Buddha’s teachings and mankind; observes world with clairvoyance; corresponds to the season fall, the color white, wind, the element metal, and the virtue righteousness. Says Donald Mackenzie: "The White Tiger of the West, for instance, is associated with metal. When, therefore, metal is placed in a grave, a ceremonial connection with the tiger god is effected. According to the Chinese Annals of Wu and Yueh, three days after the burial of the king, the essence of the element metal assumed the shape of a white tiger and crouched down on the top of the grave. Here the tiger is a protector - a preserver. As we have seen, white jade was used when the Tiger god of the West was worshipped; it is known as 'tiger jade;' a tiger was depicted on the jade symbol. To the Chinese the tiger was the king of all animals and lord of the mountains, and the tiger-jade ornament was specially reserved for commanders of armies. The male tiger was, among other things, the god of war, and in this capacity it not only assisted the armies of the emperors, but fought the demons that threatened the dead in their graves." <end quote>

The Tiger’s seven seishuku (constellations) are:

1. Tokaki Boshi (Chn. = K’uei 奎)2. Tatara Boshi (Chn. = Lou 婁)3. Ekie Boshi (Chn. = Wei 胃)4. Subaru Boshi (Chn. = Mao 昴)5. Amefuri Boshi (Chn. = Pi 畢)6. Toroki Boshi (Chn. = Tsui 觜)7. Kagasuki Boshi (Chn. = Shen 參)

* Learn more about the Tiger’s seven constellations.* See star charts for the White Tiger at this outside site.

PHOTO: From Research Report of Cultural Heritage in Asuka Village Vol. 3. A primary center of power in Japan in the 6th and 7th centuries, Asuka lies about 12 miles south of Nara in the Kinki District; home to many ancient temples and tombs. The Takamatsu Zuka Tombs 高松塚 were discovered the early 1970s and date back to Japan’s Asuka Period (600 - 710 AD).  

TIGER CONFUSED WITH KIRIN 麒麟In Japan, the tiger is sometimes confused with the mythological Chinese Ch'i-lin (Qilin), which is rendered Kirin 麒麟 in Japan. Scholar Derek Walters says the Ch’i-lin was supplanted (replaced) by the White Tiger, for the Tiger more accurately reflected the astronomical iconography associated with the western lunar mansions.  

KIRIN IN JAPANThe Kirin, which often appears tiger-like in artwork (see photos below), is a different creature entirely from the White Tiger. The Kirin is said to have the body of a deer, the tail of an ox, the hooves of a horse, a body covered with the scales of a fish, and a single horn. The Kirin appears only before the birth or death of a great and wise person. Said to live in paradise, the Kirin personifies all that is good, pure, and peaceful; can live to be 1,000 years old. 

Below text courtesy of thefreedictionary.comA mythical horned Chinese deer-like creature said to appear only when a sage has appeared. It is a good omen associated with serenity and prosperity. Often depicted with what looks like fire all over its body. In most drawings, its head looks like that of a Chinese dragon (see dragon above). Japanese art typically depicts the Kirin as more deer-like than its Chinese counterpart. Kirin is sometimes translated in English as "unicorn," because it looks similar to the unicorn -- the later a hoofed mythological horse-like beast with a single horn on its head. Some accounts describe it as having the body of a deer and the head of a lion. <end quote>

Byakko, Takamatsu Zuka TombsLearn more at this outside site .

Below: Images of the Kirin

 

NORTH - The Tortoise / Turtle / SnakeGenbu 玄武 in Japanese; in Chinese, known as Gui Xian, Kuei Hsien, Zuan Wu, Zheng Wu, Xuanwu). Genbu is always listening, and is thus portrayed as completely versed in Buddha’s teachings; corresponds to winter, cold, water, black, earth, and faith. The tortoise is a symbol of long life and happiness. When it becomes one thousand years old, it is able to speak the language of humans. Able to foretell the future. In artwork, often shown together with the snake. 

In Japan, the turtle’s Buddhist counterpart is known as Tamonten, the most powerful of the Shitenno (Four Buddhist Protectors of the Four Directions). Tamonten is also known as the Black Warrior and is also

called Bishamonten; like the tortoise, his imagery corresponds to north, winter, black, and the element water. 

Says Derek Walters: "One of the Celestial Emblems, the symbol of longevity and wisdom. It is said that its shell represents the vault of the universe. A common symbol for longevity is the Tortoise and Snake, whose union was thought to have engendered the universe. The reason why tortoise symbolism has been superseded by the Black Warrior as the emblem of the North, is probably due to the fact that 'tortoise' is a term of abuse in China." <end quote by Walters>

Turtle as Term of Abuse in China. In China, the term “turtle egg” is equivalent to calling someone a “bastard.” The reasoning is simple. Turtles crawl out of the ocean, dig a hole in the sand, and with their backs to the hole, they lay their eggs. The turtle then pushes the sand back over the eggs and returns to the ocean. The eggs are left to fend for themselves. Furthermore, islanders can stand behind the turtle as it lays its eggs and catch the eggs in their hands. The turtle does not even notice. The turtle fills the empty hole -- never once looking back -- and returns to the ocean. 

Says Donald Mackenzie: "In China the tortoise had divine attributes. Tortoise shell is a symbol of unchangeability, and a symbol or rank when used for court girdles. The tortoise was also used for purposes of divination. A gigantic mythical tortoise is supposed, in the Far East, to live in the depths of the ocean. It has one eye situated in the middle of its body. Once every three thousand years it rises to the surface and turns over on its back so that it may see the sun."  <end quote Mackenzie>

A turtle’s shell (plastron) also symbolizes a suit of armor, hence the turtle is also called the Black Warrior (Xuanwu in Chinese). Genbu’s seven seishuku (constellations) are: 

378. The Dark Warrior 玄武 was the name for the Northern Palace or thenorthern constellations of the Chinese zodiac, viz., Tou 斗, Niu 牛, Nü 女,Wei2 危, Shih 室, and Pi 璧. The Dark Warrior is the tortoise. Cf. Hs26.16a; Mh III, 353; Chavannes, Mission archeologique, vol. 11, pp. 221,231; fig. 144, 156.

1. Hikistu Boshi  (Chn. = Tou 斗)2. Inami Boshi (Chn. = Niu 牛)3. Uruki Boshi (Chn. = Nü 女)4. Tomite Boshi (Chn. = Xū 虚)5. Umiyame Boshi (Chn. = Wei 危)6. Hatsui Boshi (Chn. = Shih 室)7. Namame Boshi (Chn. = Pi 璧)

Learn more about the Turtle’s seven constellations (this site).  

See star charts for the Turtle at this outside site.

Tortoise and Snake SymbolismBelow text courtesy Gabi Greve www.amie.or.jp/daruma/Tsurukame.html

Turtle Entwined with SnakeWood, Date Unknown

Photo courtesy ofwww.rarebooksinjapan.com

Tortoise and Snake 亀と蛇In Chinese culture, especially under the influence of Taoism (道教) the tortoise is the symbol of heaven and earth, its shell compared to the vaulted heaven and the underside to the flat disc of the earth. The tortoise was the hero of many ancient legends. It helped the First Chinese Emperor to tame the Yellow River, so Shang-di rewarded the animal with a life span of Ten Thousand Years. Thus the tortoise became a symbol for Long Life. It also stands for immutability and steadfastness. 

We often see stone grave steles on a stone tortoise or reliquaries standing on it. The tortoise is also regarded as an immortal creature. As there are no male tortoise -- as the ancient believed -- the female had to mate with a snake. Thus the tortoise embracing a snake became the protector symbol of the north, but since the word "tortoise" was taboo in Chinese, it was referred to as the "dark warrior" (genbu 玄武 ) and finally became Zhenwu (in Chinese Taoism), one of the four protector gods of the four directions. The symbol of Zhenwu, the Protector God of the North, as tortoise and snake (or tortoise entwined by a snake) dates back to the third century BC. For more on Taoism, see this online catalog  about "Taoism and the Arts of China." 

Tsurukame 鶴亀 - Tortoise and Crane The crane lives 1,000 years and the tortoise 10.000, says a Japanese proverb. Both animals are symbols of longevity. The connection between a tortoise and a crane also dates back to China. The crane too was a symbol of Long Life and also the symbol of the relationship of Father and Son according to the Confucian philosophy. Furthermore the crane is a symbol of wisdom. When a high-ranking Taoist priest died, it was said he was "turning into a crane." In Japanese Buddhist art, we have a candle holder in the form of a crane standing on a tortoise (tsurukame shokudai 鶴亀燭台). This kind of temple decoration was often used by the New Sect of the Pure Land (Jodo Shinshuu 浄土真宗). Usually the crane was carrying a lotos flower with a long stem in his mouth and the flower was formed in a way to hold the candle. These types of illumination stands were produced since the Muromachi Period (1333 - 1573 AD). <end quote from Gabi Greve>

   

Tomb with Turtle Body with Snake Head

Tomb of Oe Hiromoto (in Kamakura; 1225 AD). Oe was Yoritomo Minamoto’s celebrated counselor during the founding of the Kamakura Shogunate. He was a distinguished scholar credited with conceiving and organizing the Kamakura system. Another nearby tomb, with similar turtle / snake design, is that of Shimazu Tadahisa, the illegitimate son of Yoritomo.

MORE ON THE BLACK WARRIORThe Chinese Dark Lord of the North - Xuan WuBelow Text Courtesy of: The Online Journal of the I Ching, Yi JingThe Dark Lord of the North (Xuan Wu Da Di) is a deity that comes from the pre-history of shamanic times (c. 6000 BC). In relatively modern Chinese prehistory (c. 1200 BC) the Dark Lord has become the human figure of a warrior with wild, unruly black hair, dressed in the primitive clothing of  the tribal peoples of  Neolithic times. He is powerful and strong deity capable of powerful punishments and redemptive deliverance. He is frequently depicted as the black tortoise who rules over the direction North in Chinese cosmology. He is called " Xuan" for the color black and " Wu" meaning "tortoise. 

Prehistory: The Snake and the TortoiseThe Dark Lord speaks to a more ancient myth, that of the snake and the tortoise, in religious prehistory. Very ancient drawings of a black snake and tortoise together symbolize the Dark Lord. These reptilian creatures, the snake and tortoise, were probably themselves worshipped or were powerful medicine to help in overcoming one's enemies. From Shang times onward, the flag bearing this symbol (snake and tortoise) was part of the king's color guard. In Neolithic prehistory the tortoise -- also known as the somber warrior -- and snake together are the symbols or totems of a powerful shaman who fights evil against the demons of the Invisible World. According to ancient tradition, the black tortoise is yin; the snake yang. <end quote by Online Journal of the I Ching>

TURTLE PROVERBOld Chinese spelling; pronounced “kame” in Japan; means turtle. PROVERB:The rareness of meeting a Buddha is compared with the difficulty of a blind sea-turtle finding a log to float on, or a one-eyed tortoise finding a log with a spy-hole through it." [from soothill]

TURTLE IN EARLY INDIA, BUDDHST LEGENDS, JATAKABelow text courtesy www.borobudur.tv/avadana_04.htm  The story of the Historical Buddha’s birth as a tortoise (in his past lives, before becoming the Buddha) is featured in Indian reliefs of the first gallery balustrade, where a total of five panels present the culminating scenes from a story called the Kaccapavadana. In the Hindu scriptures, the great sage Kasyapa (Sanskrit for toroise) is the father of Aditya, the Sun. The solar nature of Kasyapa is particularly appropriate representation for a past life of the Sakyamuni, who was sometimes called the "Kinsman of the Sun" (Adityabandu). 

 India, circa 191-195 AD

 See www.borobudur.tv/avadana_04.htm

CENTER, Synonymous with China itselfTenkyoku (Chinese = Pangu, Pan Ku, P’an Ku). Associated with virtue of benevolence. The seishuku (constellations) are:

1. Taishi Boshi2. Tei Boshi3. Shoshi Boshi4. Koukyuu Boshi5. Kyoku Boshi6. Shiho Boshi7. ????

P’an KuExerpt from “Chinese Mythology: An Encyclopediaof Myth and Legend” by Derek Walters, ISBN: 1855380803The legendary architect of the universe. Oddly enough, the story of how P’an Ku created the universe is now so firmly established in Chinese folklore, it would be forgivable to assume that the story of P’an Ku was one of China’s earliest legends. However, the great philosopher Ssu-ma Ch’ien makes no mention of it, and in fact P’an Ku does not make his appearance until the 4th century AD. The legend, ascribed to the brush of Ko Hung (Kung) is likely to have been a tale imported from Southeast Asia. It is highly unlikely that it would have been fabricated by a Taoist writer such as Ko Kung, because it would have been second-nature to an educated Chinese writer to introduce established characters of Chinese mythology, but none are present. The date of its composition may be even later, as its first appearance may not be earlier than the 11th century Wai Chi (Records of Foreign Lands). The substance of the legend is that P’an Ku chiselled the universe for eighteen thousand years, and as he chiselled, so he grew himself, six feet every day. When his work was complete, his body became the substance of the universe: his head became the mountains, his breath the wind. From his eyes the sun and moon were made, while the stars were made from his beard. His limbs became the four quarters, his blood the rivers, his flesh the soil, his hairs the trees and plants, his teeth and bones the rocks and minerals, and his sweat the rain. Finally, the lice on his body become the human race. In

China, he holds the hammer and chisel with which he formed the universe, and is surrounded by the Four Creatures (tortoise, phoenix, dragon, and unicorn. <end quote by Derek Walters >. 

Pangu (Chinese Adam) & the Four Mythical CreaturesText courtesy www.chinavoc.com/history/ancient/legend.htmChina has a history longer than that of any other present day nation. We have plenty of myths and legends. The first figure in our history is Pangu, regarded as the Chinese Adam by westerners. According to legend, in the beginning there was only darkness and chaos. Then an extremely large egg appeared. This vast egg was subjected to two opposing forces or principles. The interaction of the two forces -- yin, the passive or negative female principle, and yang, the active or positive male principle -- caused the egg to produce Pangu, and the shell to separate. The upper half of the shell formed the heaven, and the lower half the earth.

Pangu has been depicted in many ways. He sometimes appears as a dwarf with two horns on his head, clothed in skin or leaves. He may be holding a hammer in one hand and a chisel in the other, or perhaps the symbol of yin and yang. He may also be shown holding the sun in one hand and the moon in the other. He is often depicted with his companions the four supernatural animals - the phoenix, the dragon, theunicorn and the tortoise. In any case, Pangu grew rapidly and increased his height by six to ten feet daily. He hammered and chiseled a massive piece of granite floating aimlessly in space, and as he worked, the heavens and the earth became progressively wider. He labored ceaselessly for eighteen thousand years and finally he separated heaven from earth. His body dissolved when his work was done.

  

LEARN MORE

28 Constellations, 28 Moon Lodges, 28 Moon StationsThis site. Learn more about each of the four quarters (north, south, east, west) and the seven constellations in each group. All 28 represent points in the moon’s monthly path, and each was deified.  

Chinese Mythology: Encyclopedia of Myth and LegendBy Derek Walters. A-to-Z format. Very useful resource, but no Chinese language characters are given, only English equivalents. First published by The Aquarian Press, 1992. Pages = 191 pages. ISBN = 1855380803. 

China and Japan Myths and Legendsby Donald A. Mackenzie. Publisher: Bracken Books (1986). ISBN: 1851700161  

Star Charts & Moon Stations, by Steve Renshaw and Saori IharaDetailed maps of the 28 Lunar Mansions. A very excellent resource. For other charts of the 28 Lunar Mansions, see www.sempai.org 

Takamatsu Zuka Tombs 高松塚 & Kitora Kofun TombsAn Ancient View of the Sky from a Tomb in Asuka, JapanBy Steve Renshaw and Saori Iharahttp://www2.gol.com/users/stever/kitora.htm http://www2.gol.com/users/stever/asuka.htm 

http://www2.gol.com/users/stever/charts.htm  

Kelley L. Ross, Ph.D., Los Angeles Valley Collegewww.friesian.com/elements.htm   (Excellent review) 

Tsurukame -- Crane, Tortoise and Snake SymbolismDr. Gabi Greve darumamuseum.blogspot.com/2010/02/tsurukame.html 

Dolores KozielskiCertified Feng Shui consultant who practices in NJ & PA.www.fengshuiwrite.com  

Wonderful Site for Textual Info on Buddhismcampross.crosswinds.net/ShuteiMandala/4kings.html   

Four Animals, espeicially the KIRINwww.chartpak.com/pelikan/kirin_story.html   

Says Phoenix is Karura (which I believe is wrong)www.boadicea.net/saintseiya/ikki/mythology.htm  

Astrology: More on Chinese Constellations & Calendarwww.pp.htv.fi/ivilkki/Chinese_Calendar_and_Astrology.html       

Modern reproductions of old Chinese imagery.Photo from this Japanese eStore .

Modern Artwork of the Four. Photo courtesy daiwagroup.com/fengshui/

SHITENNO. Lit. = Four Heavenly Kings (Buddhist)Four guardians of the four compass directions in Buddhism. Associated closely with China’s Five Element Theory. The four celestial emblems (dragon, red bird, tiger, turtle) can be associated with the iconography of the Shitennō, who also guard the four cardinal directions.

Four Shitenno, Horyuji (Hōryūji) Temple 法隆寺, NaraMid-7th Century. Oldest extant set of the four.

Kōmokuten 広目天, Zōchōten 増長天, Tamonten 多門天, Jikokuten 持国天Painted Wood, Each Statue Approx. 133.5 cm in Height

Photos from Comprehensive Dictionary of Japan's Nat’l Treasures国宝大事典 (西川 杏太郎. ISBN 4-06-187822-0