Ying Long, recognized by several titles such as Ji, Geng Chen, Huang Long, and Fei Long, holds a prestigious position in Chinese mythology. As the progenitor of all dragons, she is among the Four Great Dragon Gods and stands out as the only winged dragon in these tales. Notably, Ying Long is regarded as the mother of the legendary creatures Feng Huang and Qi Lin. She is revered as a rain deity, often linked to a variety of myths and folklore.
The essence of Ying Long is deeply tied to the themes of Creation and Destruction within the cosmos. One prevalent narrative in Chinese Creation Theory credits her with the laying of the primordial egg from which Pan Gu, the Giant God, emerged. Furthermore, she is believed to be responsible for the genesis of all terrestrial beings through her ability to summon rain from the heavens. Her powers extend to the capability of causing the disappearance of the Sun and Moon and annihilating all matter if provoked.
Although Ying Long typically resides in the celestial realm, various accounts recount her interventions on Earth. She is said to have bestowed the He Map upon Fu Xi, assisted Nü Wa in visiting the Jade Emperor, and imparted knowledge of medicine and agriculture to Yan Di. During a historic confrontation between Huang Di and Chi You, it was Ying Long who ultimately vanquished Chi You and Kua Fu. Additionally, she played a crucial role in flood control across ancient China by conjuring the Yellow River and its tributaries with a mere flick of her tail.
Her authority is reflected in her influence; when Ying Long speaks, all deities residing in the Nine Heavens heed her words, earning her the title of Teacher of all Gods.
The Classic of Mountains and Seas
In the “Classic of Mountains and Seas,” Ying Long is depicted in numerous places, emphasizing her vital role in both creation and nature. There is a mountain in the northeast of the Great Wilderness known as Xiong Li Tu Qiu, where Ying Long resides at its southernmost point. The text narrates that because she killed Chi You and Kua Fu, she is unable to return to the heavens, leading to droughts on Earth. During these times, people would dress as dragons, praying for rain, resulting in significant downpours.
Another narrative recounts the tale of Kua Fu, who, driven by ambition, sought to catch the sun and ultimately perished from thirst during his quest. Here, Ying Long is again linked to his demise, suggesting her hand in the balance of nature and indicating her forcefulness in maintaining order.
Additionally, the presence of other characters like Nü Ba, who embodies drought, and her connection to Huang Di during battles against Chi You showcases Ying Long’s significance in both combat and governance of natural elements. When Ying Long summoned rain to help Huang Di, it led to the end of Chi You’s aggression, signifying her essential role in both conflict resolution and environmental balance.
The complex tales within the “Classic of Mountains and Seas” highlight the interconnections between divine figures and the natural world, with Ying Long standing as a pivotal entity who shapes both.
In summary, Ying Long is not just a dragon; she symbolizes the delicate interplay of creation and destruction in the universe, demanding respect and reverence from all beings.
