One of the ways in which the dragon is manifested in Chinese culture is in the form of a boat. The dragon boat as it is known is a unique and creative innovation that seeks to represent the prominent character of the dragon.
The general design of the dragon boat’s body is slender and lengthy. Movements are created by an assembly of rowers using paddles. Originating centuries ago, these types of boats can be found in many boat racing celebrations around the world.
Dragon boat racing actually dates back to ancient times. It was actually part of a folk ritual and the boat featured a vibrantly designed dragon head up at the deck. The sport of racing these boats is considered to be one of the oldest forms of organized competitions developed by man.
Such competitions are very colorful as the boats are dressed up as dragons. The two elements added to the boats are the dragon heads and tails. These are made in a rigged fashion with every boat having its own identity of the dragon. The dragon adornments are what lend the racing event its uniqueness.
The Chinese Dragon Boat Race is not complete without the embellished boats reflecting that of a dragon. It is a symbolic representation of the Chinese tradition celebrated at the Duanwu Jie festival held every year. The Westerners enjoy the celebration as well but with less significance and refer to this celebration as the ‘Dragon boat festival’.
Being unaware of the history of the festival the western world gave the event the name because of the dragon heads that were featured on the boats. In truth however that is not what the Chinese call the event but nonetheless the name that has been coined by the west has gained currency around the world.
Dragon boats with their heads and tails are found in many different cultures in Asia. Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Malaysia are some of the cultures in which the dragon boat is found. It is however in China where the dragon is most venerated as it forms a prominent part of the mythological tradition of the country. It is a significant part of the zodiac tradition as it is the mythical character amongst the other earthly animals that represent the years.
The Dragon Boat Races have evolved into a much more peaceful event than when it originated. Following Chinese beliefs, these races were aggressive in the beginning, with the end result producing a winner by the other boat becoming capsized. The outcome of the victorious was always considered the will power of the dragon.
Over the years however the sport became a lot more civilized with all the elements of violence being removed from it. Today the dragon boat is decorated in much the same way and can be seen sailing the waterways in many different countries.
Dragon Boat Races will definitely be an intersting conversation piece. If you want to grasp more you should have a look into our page on Chinese Zodiac Dragons.
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