Azure Dragon represents the element wood, the eastern direction, the spring season. East is where the Sun rises, therefore dragon epitomizes rising to eminence, and the ability to readily grasp the overall situation. The dragon’s body progressively loops from front to back, creating a sense of interlaced time and space. Gripped in the dragon’s hand are the sun, an object of worship since ancient times, and a traditional symbol of peace, longevity, and well-being. Superimposed on the dragon is a swirling auspicious Ruyi cloud, representing good luck and prosperity. forming a distinctive contrast with the detailed representation of the dragon itself. Associated with the four quadrants of the vault of heaven is the Azure Dragon of the East, the Vermillion Bird of the South, the White Tiger of the West, and the Black Tortoise of the North; in the center is the Qilin (unicorn). Each region corresponds to one of the five elements: metal (west), wood (east), water (north), fire (south), and earth (center). Moving across the night sky, the stars connect all life to the five elements. When the universe and elements are aligned, harmony ensues.
