China Ushers in the Year of the Loong
Chinese state media has announced that this Lunar New Year will be celebrated as the “Year of the Loong”, an alternative translation for the Mandarin word for dragon. This change in terminology is an effort to distinguish the Chinese dragon from its Western counterpart, which is often associated with aggression and destruction. The Chinese “loong” symbolizes positivity, nobleness, and fortune.
China’s Cultural Confidence and Nationalism
The promotion of the term “loong” over “dragon” is seen as part of China’s push for cultural confidence and increasing nationalism. Chinese leader Xi Jinping has urged the country to assert its cultural identity and raise its international stature. As a result, Western influences, such as books and movies, have been viewed with suspicion. Embracing the “loong” terminology during the Lunar New Year is seen as a way for Chinese citizens to express their patriotism.
The Characteristics of the “Loong”
Unlike its Western counterpart, the Chinese “loong” is depicted as a creature with elongated bodies, shiny golden scales, and a long silky mane. They have sharp claws and fangs but no wings, yet they can glide effortlessly through the sky. The eyes of the “loong” are believed to be the window to its soul, symbolizing their wisdom and benevolence.
Symbolic Importance of Dragons in Chinese Culture
Dragons hold immense significance in Chinese culture. They are seen as the guardian of Chinese emperors, and their imagery can be found in royal palaces, temples, and shrines. The Chinese consider themselves the “descendants of the dragon,” emphasizing the dragon’s importance in their cultural identity. The Year of the Dragon is especially auspicious, symbolizing prosperity and vigor.
The Debate Around “Loongs” and Western Dragons
The Chinese promotion of the term “loong” has received support on Chinese social media, with many expressing the need to distinguish their cultural symbol from the Western dragon. However, some experts argue that the accurate translation should be “long” rather than “loong”. They believe that the move to use “loong” is politically driven and may cause confusion. Furthermore, they emphasize that both Eastern and Western cultures have both benevolent and evil dragons, and their portrayal depends on the storyteller’s intentions.
In conclusion, the embrace of the “Year of the Loong” reflects China’s cultural confidence and nationalism. The distinction between the Chinese dragon and its Western counterpart is an effort to assert China’s cultural identity and promote a positive image of their cultural symbol.