The pine stands proudly, cloaked in snow, towering above the other trees in the forest, bearing the cold of winter year after year, unwithered and unaffected.
Resilient through winter, impervious to the harsh cold, the pine has become a symbol for aspiration and integrity, and is often referenced when well-wishing for long life. The pine represents immortality in Daoism, with some even using pine needles and roots in their cooking, in the hope that they too can gain immortality.
"The Cranes and Pines" painted by Fang Yaoyao
The crane is also a symbol of integrity and nobility in Chinese culture. Some say the crane is a bird from beyond this world, able to take flight and show the way to the realm of immortals. Today in China, the crane, with its pure white coat of feathers, stands as a symbol of inner refinement and purity.
-the end-
written by Fang yaoyao
translated by Thomas Staniforth
コメント