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[ Return to Asian Dragons ]
Location:
China
Description:
In China there are four high Dragon King and
there are many local ones. The local Dragon Kings are usually much more respected.
Every well and watercourse has its own Dragon King. In northern China beside
every well is the Dragon King's tiny temple with a statue of it. Dragon Kings
are resorted to when there is too much or too little rain. The Dragon King
is approached with the request, and if it is not granted within a certain
time action is taken. For example, the statue of the Dragon King may be left
by the side of the road, to cause it discomfort so that it grants the request.
If a request is granted then there is a celebration to honour the Dragon
King.
There are four
main Dragon Kings in China called Ao Ch'in, Ao Jun, Ao Kuang, and Ao Shun.
These are the names they have in 'Travels in the West' where they are depicted
as four brothers. Other sources use alternative names.
Each of the brothers rule one of the four seas. Earth is in the centre of
these seas. They each live in an underwater crystal palace.
Also in the palace are their ministers, army (of fish, crabs, and crayfish)
and watchmen who police the sea bottom.
They depend directly on the Jade Emporer, from whom they receive
the orders of how much rain to distribute where.
Related Dragons:
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