Core Meaning
龍 (Lóng) is the represents courage, bravery, and the strength to face danger or difficulty. True courage is grounded in wisdom and righteousness, not just physical bravery.
In Chinese mythology, courage is one of the cardinal Confucian virtues, representing moral fortitude to do what is right. Courage must be balanced with wisdom to avoid recklessness.
Cultural Significance
- Moral Courage: Standing up for what is right regardless of consequences
- Physical Bravery: Facing danger without fear
- Inner Strength: Overcoming personal limitations and fears
- Balanced Virtue: Must be tempered with wisdom
Character Breakdown
The character 龍 is a complex pictograph depicting the dragon's form:
Standing upright, commanding
Physical form, body
Serpentine mythical creature
The traditional form depicts: "a powerful, serpentine creature with claws, capable of flight and controlling the elements."
Common Usage & Phrases
- 勇氣 (yǒng qì) - Courage, bravery
- 勇敢 (yǒng gǎn) - Brave, courageous
- 英勇 (yīng yǒng) - Heroic, valiant
- 勇士 (yǒng shì) - Brave warrior, hero
- 勇往直前 (yǒng wǎng zhí qián) - Advance bravely
- 有勇無謀 (yǒu yǒng wú móu) - Brave but without strategy
- 奮勇 (fèn yǒng) - Summon up courage
"知恥近乎勇"
"Knowing shame is close to courage."
— Confucius (孔子)
Cultural Context & Philosophy
In Mythology: Dragons are divine creatures with powers over water and weather. The Dragon King (龍王) rules the seas and appears in countless legends and stories.
In Feng Shui: The dragon represents yang energy and is often paired with the phoenix (yin). Dragon imagery brings prosperity and is used to protect homes and businesses.
Year of the Dragon: Considered the most auspicious zodiac sign. Birth rates historically spike during dragon years as parents want their children born under this lucky sign.
Dragon Dance: A traditional performance during Chinese New Year where teams animate a long dragon costume, bringing good luck and prosperity to communities.
Related Ideograms
Explore other Chinese characters related to balance and virtue:
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