More of The Story Behind Feng Shui

Since the time period of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors, some form of ruler has been the main authority figure above all others in China.  It is true that different periods of history have different names for the various positions.  However, the Chinese has almost universally understood that a strong central ruler was necessary.  This is the case because of the vast region and the enormous number of people within their civilization.  Most social values originate with either Confucianism or Taoism.  The teaching of Reincarnation is really a reminder to the Chinese of the connection between this life and the "so-called" next life.  It can also be said that the business culture has been shaped by these ideas too.  In business the concept of "guanxi" has been well established for quite some time.  Guanxi teaches that relationships should take precedence over mere regulations.

Chinese religion was originally devoted to worshipping the supreme god "Shang Di."  This generally took place during the Xia and Shang dynasties.  The emperor and diviners acted as priests in this kind of faith.  The Zhou Dynasty changed this relgions to worhsipping the broader concept of "heaven."  Therefore, a great part of Chinese culture is based on the idea that spiritual world does exist.  Countless methods of this form of divination have helped to answer the questions of people.  In fact, they have even served as an alternative to medicine.  Folklores have aided in filling in the gap for things and events which could not be explained.  For all these reasons, there tends to be a dim line between that which is myth, religion, or unxeplained pehenomenon.  Therefore, many deities of China are part and parcel of the traditons dating back centuries.  Some of the most well known holy figures would include Guan Yi, Jade Emperor, and Buddha.  It is interesting that many of the old stories and myths have even evolved over time to become traditional Chinese holidays!

Feng Shui, as a decorating strategy, is devoted to the proper placement of objects in a particular area.  Therefore, these facts about China's fascination with different emperors, deities, historical figures, and myths relating to them suggest understandable reasons for this kind of scheme.  So choosing to decorate your home or office in the Feng Shui way firmly tells others that you are sympathetic with the "Chinese" school of thought.  Learning as much as you can about Feng Shui is always helpful to prepare your home for the atmosphere you want to create.  Good luck in your plans!

Harlan Urwiler

For more information, please feel free to check out my website at:  http://www.myorientalgallery.com/.