Chi
na’s Cold Knowledge: 800 Years of Lotus Culture When people think about iconic symbols of China, it's likely that images of dragons, pandas, or the Great Wall come to mind. However, there is one particular flower that has a deep cultural significance in China that few people outside of the country know about: the lotus. Lotus flowers have a 800-year-long cultural history in China, and they have been highly prized for their beauty and symbolism across various aspects of Chinese life. Here are some cold knowledge facts to give you a better idea of the role of lotus flowers in Chinese culture:
1. The first record of lotus cultivation in China can be traced all the way back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It quickly became a popular flower among poets, who romanticized its beauty and symbolism in their works.
2. Another Tang poet, Bai Juyi, was known for his appreciation of lotus flowers to the point where he even wrote a poem entitled "A Visit to the Lotus Pool" extolling the beauty and fragrance of the blossoms.
3. Lotus flowers are also deeply tied to Buddhism, which arrived in China around 150 AD. Buddhists believe that the lotus flower symbolizes purity and enlightenment because it rises above the muck and mud of the pond to blossom in the light.
4. In Chinese culture, the lotus is also associated with fortune and prosperity. This is because the word for lotus (lián) sounds like the word for "continuous" (liánxù), which lends itself to the idea of a continuous flow of wealth and abundance.
5. The lotus is an important symbol of romance and marriage in China. The flower is associated with the idea of a perfect union, as its petals and stamens meet in the center in perfect harmony.
6. The famous West Lake in Hangzhou, a popular tourist destination, is well-known for its lotus blossoms. In the summer months, visitors are treated to a sea of pink and white flowers, which is considered one of the most beautiful sights in China.
7. Young girls in China are often compared to lotus flowers for their purity, grace and beauty. A common compliment is "xiangxiang shui lian" (香香水莲), which translates to "fragrant and pure as a lotus flower in water."
8. In traditional Chinese medicine, the lotus has various medicinal properties, including the ability to reduce fever, regulate blood pressure, and improve digestion. In conclusion, the lotus flower plays an important role in Chinese culture, transcending multiple aspects of life from literature and art to religion, philosophy and medicine. It is fascinating to explore the depth of cultural traditions and meanings associated with a single flower.