The number 7 is considered a lucky number in China, and has significant cultural and symbolic meaning. One reason why the number 7 is considered lucky in China is because it sounds similar to the Chinese word for “togetherness” or “unity”. In Mandarin Chinese, the word for 7 is “qī”, which sounds similar to the word “qì” (气), meaning “life energy” or “vital energy”. This association with life energy and unity has made the number 7 a popular choice for weddings and other auspicious occasions.
what does the number 7 mean in china
The number 7 holds significant cultural and symbolic meaning in China, and it is considered a lucky number with many positive associations. The Chinese word for 7, “qī”, sounds similar to words meaning “togetherness” or “unity”, and it is often associated with harmony, balance, and good fortune.
One reason why the number 7 is considered lucky in China is its connection to astrology and divination. In Chinese astrology, there are seven heavenly bodies: the sun, the moon, and the five visible planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn). These seven celestial bodies were believed to influence human destiny, and the number 7 became associated with luck and prosperity as a result.
In Chinese culture, there are also many other associations with the number 7. For example, the seven colors of the rainbow represent diversity and beauty, while the seven notes in a musical scale represent harmony and balance. The seven stars of the Big Dipper constellation are also seen as a symbol of good luck and protection.
In traditional Chinese medicine, there are seven emotions that are believed to affect a person’s health: joy, anger, worry, contemplation, sadness, fear, and shock. It is believed that these emotions can cause imbalances in the body’s energy and lead to illness, so practitioners of Chinese medicine aim to balance these emotions through various treatments and therapies.
In addition, the number 7 is associated with many important cultural and historical events in China. For example, the Chinese New Year is traditionally celebrated over a period of 15 days, and the seventh day of the new year is known as “Renri”, or “the common person’s birthday”. This day is believed to be the birthday of all humans, and is celebrated with special foods and traditions.
number 7 in chinese culture
1. there are seven stars in the sky, mainly referring to the Big Dipper, with the main star located in the Purple Palace. They are named as Tian Shu, Tian Xuan, Tian Ji, Tian Quan, Yu Heng, Kai Yang, and Yao Guang.
2. there are seven treasures on earth, mainly referring to the countless treasures in the Buddhist scripture of the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. In the Amitabha Sutra, the seven treasures are gold, silver, lapis lazuli, crystal, agate, pearl, and coral.
3. there are seven apertures in the human body, mainly referring to the seven orifices in the head and face, including two eyes, two ears, two nostrils, and one mouth, which add up to the number “7”.
4. there are seven colors in the world, referring to the colors of the rainbow, which are commonly known as “red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet”.
5. there are seven notes in music, which are known as “do, re, mi, fa, sol, la, and ti”.
6. there are seven stages in reincarnation, which is the belief in the cycle of birth and death.
7. The number 7 is also a popular choice in Chinese literature, such as the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove and the Seven Scholars of Jian’an.
the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove
The Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove were a group of Chinese scholars and poets who lived in the 3rd century AD during the Wei Dynasty. They were known for their unconventional lifestyles and their rejection of the strict Confucian social norms of their time.
The Seven Sages included Ruan Ji, Ji Kang, Liu Ling, Ruan Xian, Shan Tao, Xiang Xiu, and Wang Rong. They were all well-educated and accomplished scholars and artists, but they chose to live in seclusion and often engaged in activities that were considered scandalous or taboo at the time, such as drinking, gambling, and casual sex.
Despite their unorthodox behavior, the Seven Sages were highly respected for their intellectual achievements and their contributions to literature and philosophy. They were known for their love of nature and their emphasis on individual freedom and self-expression.
The Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove have since become legendary figures in Chinese culture, and their influence can be seen in many works of Chinese literature and art.
the Seven Scholars of Jian’an
The Seven Scholars of Jian’an was a group of Chinese scholars and poets who lived during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD). They were known for their literary works and their association with the Wei kingdom.
The seven scholars were Wang Can, Zhong Hui, Xu Gan, Wang Yin, Ruan Ji, Cao Biao, and Xun Can. They were all scholars and poets who were interested in literature and philosophy. They formed a literary circle in the capital of Wei and wrote poems and essays together.
Their literary works were characterized by romanticism, idealism, and individualism. They were influenced by Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism and incorporated their ideas into their literary works.
The Seven Scholars of Jian’an were also known for their association with the Wei kingdom. They served as advisers to the Wei emperor Cao Rui and played important roles in the government. However, their influence declined after the Wei dynasty was replaced by the Jin dynasty.
Despite their short-lived influence, the Seven Scholars of Jian’an are remembered as important figures in Chinese literature and philosophy. Their works continue to be studied and appreciated by scholars and readers alike.
is 7 a lucky number in Chinese
The number 7 is considered a lucky number in Chinese culture. It has a deep-rooted cultural and symbolic significance and is associated with good fortune, prosperity, and balance.
In Chinese mythology, there are seven stars in the sky that are collectively known as the Big Dipper, which has been used by Chinese astronomers for thousands of years to navigate the night sky. In addition, the human body has seven apertures, and there are seven treasures in Buddhism, which are believed to bring good fortune and abundance.
Furthermore, the pronunciation of the number 7 in Mandarin Chinese is similar to the pronunciation of the word “togetherness” or “united,” which is why it is also associated with harmonious relationships and partnerships.
As a result, many Chinese people consider the number 7 to be a lucky number, and it is often used in celebrations such as weddings and the Chinese New Year. It is also commonly seen in Chinese folklore, literature, and art.
what does the number 7 mean in feng shui
In Feng Shui, the number 7 is a powerful and significant number that is associated with several aspects of life, including health, wealth, and relationships. Here are some of the main meanings of the number 7 in Feng Shui:
- Good Fortune and Luck: The number 7 is believed to be a lucky number in Feng Shui. It is associated with good fortune, prosperity, and abundance. It is often used in homes and businesses to attract positive energy and bring good luck.
- Health: In Feng Shui, the number 7 is associated with good health and vitality. It is believed that having seven plants in a home or office can promote good health and bring positive energy.
- Relationships: The number 7 is also associated with love and relationships. It is believed that placing seven red roses in a vase can help to attract love and romance into your life. Additionally, having seven items in a room, such as seven candles or seven pieces of art, can promote positive relationships and harmony.
- Wealth: The number 7 is also associated with wealth and prosperity. It is believed that placing a money plant in the southeast corner of a home or office can attract financial abundance. Additionally, using seven coins in a feng shui wealth cure can help to bring wealth and prosperity into your life.
- Spiritual Growth: In Feng Shui, the number 7 is also associated with spiritual growth and development. It is believed that meditating for seven minutes a day can help to promote inner peace and spiritual growth.
Overall, the number 7 holds significant meaning in Feng Shui and is often used to promote positive energy, good fortune, and abundance in all areas of life.
number 7 in Chinese New Year
The number 7 plays an important role in the Chinese New Year celebrations. Here are some of the ways in which the number 7 is associated with the holiday:
- The Seventh Day: The seventh day of the Chinese New Year is known as Renri, or “the common birthday of all human beings.” According to Chinese mythology, the goddess Nuwa created the first humans on this day, and it is considered to be a day of renewal and new beginnings. It is also believed that on this day, people can increase their wealth and good fortune by eating seven types of vegetables, such as celery, spinach, and lettuce.
- Seven Lucky Foods: There are seven foods that are considered to be lucky during the Chinese New Year, and they are often eaten on the seventh day of the holiday. These foods are fish, dumplings, spring rolls, niangao (a sweet rice cake), oranges, tangerines, and pomelos. Each of these foods is associated with a different aspect of good fortune and prosperity, such as wealth, happiness, and longevity.
- Seven Blessings: The Chinese New Year is also associated with seven blessings, which are known as the Seven Treasures of Buddhism. These blessings are long life, wealth, health, love, virtue, a natural death, and a peaceful afterlife. They are often depicted on Chinese New Year decorations and are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who display them.
- The Seventh Zodiac Animal: In the Chinese zodiac, there are 12 animals that represent each year in a 12-year cycle. The seventh animal is the horse, which is associated with success, wealth, and good luck. People born in the Year of the Horse are believed to be hardworking, intelligent, and friendly.
Overall, the number 7 is a significant and auspicious number in Chinese culture, and it plays a special role in the Chinese New Year celebrations. From the seventh day of the holiday to the seven lucky foods and seven blessings, the number 7 is a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and renewal during this festive time.
Chinese festivals with 7
There are several Chinese festivals and celebrations that involve the number 7 in their traditions and customs. Here are some examples:
Qixi Festival (七夕节): Also known as the Double Seventh Festival, this is a traditional Chinese festival that falls on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month. It is often referred to as the Chinese Valentine’s Day and is based on a romantic legend about the weaver girl and the cowherd. On this day, couples exchange gifts and express their love for each other.
Ghost Festival (中元节 or 七月半): This is a traditional Chinese festival that takes place on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month. It is believed that on this day, the gates of the underworld are opened and spirits return to the human world. People offer food and other offerings to their ancestors and perform rituals to appease the wandering spirits.
number 7 in Chinese numerology
In Chinese numerology, the number 7 is considered to be an auspicious number that symbolizes completeness, perfection, and harmony. It is believed to have a positive energy and is often associated with good fortune and success.
The significance of the number 7 in Chinese numerology can be traced back to ancient times, where it was used in divination and fortune-telling. In the Book of Changes (I Ching), a classic Chinese text that dates back to the 9th century BCE, the number 7 is associated with the trigram Qian, which represents strength, creativity, and leadership.
In Chinese culture, the number 7 is also linked to the concept of the Seven Treasures (七宝), which are gold, silver, pearls, agate, crystal, coral, and lapis lazuli. These treasures were believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who possessed them.
Furthermore, the number 7 is often used in Chinese idioms and phrases to convey positive meanings. For example, “七步成诗” (qī bù chéng shī) means “to compose a poem in seven steps,” which implies that a skilled poet can create a masterpiece effortlessly. “七喜七好” (qī xǐ qī hǎo) means “seven joys, seven good things,” which suggests that life is full of blessings and happiness.
number 7 In traditional Chinese medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the number 7 holds special significance as it is believed to represent the seven vital organs of the body, which include the heart, lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, gallbladder, and stomach. These organs are considered to be essential for maintaining good health and well-being, and any imbalances or disorders within them can lead to various health problems.
The seven organs are believed to be interconnected and interdependent, and their proper functioning is crucial for maintaining the body’s overall balance and harmony. According to TCM theory, each organ is associated with a specific element, flavor, and emotion, and is governed by its own meridian system, which carries energy, or qi, throughout the body.
For example, the heart is associated with the fire element, the bitter flavor, and the emotion of joy. It is responsible for circulating blood and nutrients throughout the body, and is believed to be the “ruler” of the other organs. The lungs, on the other hand, are associated with the metal element, the pungent flavor, and the emotion of grief. They are responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide, and are believed to be connected to the skin and the immune system.
In TCM, the number 7 is also associated with the seven acupuncture points that are believed to be the most important for maintaining health and preventing disease. These points are located on the body’s midline, and include the Baihui point (located at the top of the head), the Renzhong point (located between the nose and the upper lip), and the Qihai point (located below the navel).
Furthermore, the number 7 is often used in TCM herbal remedies, where seven herbs are combined to create a powerful tonic that can support the body’s overall health and well-being. These formulas are carefully designed to address specific imbalances or health concerns and are often used in conjunction with acupuncture, dietary therapy, and other TCM modalities.
the seven emotions and six desires
In traditional Chinese culture, there is a belief that the human mind and body are influenced by seven emotions and six desires. These emotions and desires are considered to be fundamental to human nature and are believed to play a significant role in both physical and mental health.
The seven emotions, also known as the “seven affects,” are joy, anger, worry, pensiveness, sadness, fear, and shock. Each of these emotions is believed to correspond to a specific organ in the body, and when they are experienced excessively or out of balance, they can lead to imbalances and health problems. For example, anger is associated with the liver, worry with the spleen, and sadness with the lungs.
The six desires, also known as the “six thieves,” are greed, anger, ignorance, pride, envy, and lust. These desires are believed to be the root cause of suffering and are seen as obstacles to spiritual and emotional well-being. They are thought to arise from attachment to worldly pleasures and desires and can lead to negative emotions, such as jealousy, resentment, and dissatisfaction.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the seven emotions and six desires are considered to be important factors in the development of disease and are often addressed in treatment. For example, acupuncture and herbal medicine may be used to balance the body’s energy and address emotional imbalances, while meditation and other mind-body practices may be used to cultivate mindfulness and awareness of these emotions and desires.
Furthermore, the practice of qigong, which involves movements, breathwork, and meditation, is often used in TCM to promote physical and emotional well-being by balancing the body’s energy and cultivating a sense of inner peace and harmony.
In conclusion, the seven emotions and six desires are important concepts in traditional Chinese culture and medicine. By understanding and managing these emotions and desires, individuals can cultivate greater emotional and spiritual well-being and promote physical health and balance.
number 7 In Chinese Mythology
In Chinese mythology, the number 7 is associated with many significant and powerful symbols and legends. Here are a few examples:
- The Seven Stars of the Big Dipper – In Chinese mythology, the Big Dipper is known as the Northern Dipper or the Great Chariot. It is believed to be a sacred celestial symbol associated with good fortune and protection. The Big Dipper is composed of seven stars, which are said to represent the seven mansions of the North Star, each of which is associated with a different deity or power.
- The Seven Immortals – The Seven Immortals are a group of legendary figures in Chinese mythology who are said to have achieved immortality through various means, such as through the practice of Taoist alchemy or by consuming magical herbs. The Seven Immortals are often depicted as a group of eccentric and mischievous figures who travel together and use their powers to help those in need.
- The Seven Dragons – In Chinese mythology, dragons are powerful and revered creatures that are associated with strength, wisdom, and good fortune. The Seven Dragons are a group of legendary dragons who are said to guard the seven rivers of China and protect the country from harm.
- The Seventh Daughter of the Jade Emperor – According to Chinese mythology, the Jade Emperor is the ruler of heaven and earth and the father of many celestial beings. One of his daughters, known as the Seventh Daughter, is said to have fallen in love with a mortal man and was banished to earth as punishment. However, her love for the mortal was so strong that she was eventually allowed to return to heaven and marry him.
- The Seven Treasures – The Seven Treasures are a group of magical objects in Chinese mythology that are said to possess great power and bring good fortune to those who possess them. The treasures include the Golden Cock, the Jade Ruler, the Bronze Bell, the Silver Bow, the Crystal Cup, the Iron Axe, and the Stone Tablet.
nuwa created man about the number 7
In Chinese mythology, the goddess Nu Wa is credited with creating mankind and is considered the mother goddess of Chinese mythology. According to the legend, Nu Wa created one kind of animal each day from the first day to the sixth day of the lunar calendar, and on the seventh day, she created human beings.
The seventh day of the first lunar month is known as “Renri” or “Human Day” in Chinese culture, and it is celebrated as the birthday of all human beings. During this day, it is believed that people should eat seven-color rice, which is made by mixing different colored rice with vegetables and meat, to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
chinese funeral and number 7
In Chinese culture, funeral customs and rituals are deeply rooted in tradition and superstition. The number 7 plays a significant role in Chinese funerals and is believed to have spiritual significance.
One common belief is that a person’s soul will linger on earth for seven days after their death. This is known as the “seven-day mourning period.” During this time, family members and close friends will gather to pay their respects to the deceased and offer condolences to the family. It is also customary to burn paper money, incense, and other offerings to help the deceased transition to the afterlife.
Another belief is that the soul will experience seven trials or judgments after death. These trials are meant to determine the person’s moral worth and determine their place in the afterlife. It is believed that the number seven is associated with these trials because of its association with completeness and perfection.
In some regions of China, it is also believed that the deceased should be buried on the seventh day after their death. This is known as “quick burial,” and it is believed to help the soul of the deceased move on to the afterlife more quickly.
There are also superstitions surrounding the number seven in Chinese funerals. For example, it is considered bad luck to use seven flowers or wreaths at a funeral. Instead, it is customary to use an even number of flowers, such as six or eight.
seven-character poem
A seven-character poem, or qijue (七绝) in Chinese, is a type of traditional Chinese poetry that consists of four lines, each containing seven characters or syllables. This form of poetry has a long history in Chinese literature, dating back to the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), and is still popular today.
The seven-character poem is a concise and elegant form of poetry that requires careful choice of words and phrasing. It is known for its simplicity and directness, and often expresses feelings of love, nature, or social commentary.
number 7 in the abacus
In the abacus, also known as a counting frame, the number 7 is represented by a combination of two beads on the upper deck and five beads on the lower deck. Each bead has a value of 1, so the combination of two beads on the upper deck and five beads on the lower deck equals 7.
The abacus has been used in China for thousands of years as a tool for mathematical calculations. It consists of a rectangular frame with vertical rods, each containing a number of beads. The beads are moved up and down the rods to represent numbers and perform calculations.
In the traditional Chinese abacus, there are two decks of beads on each rod, with the upper deck containing two beads and the lower deck containing five beads. This configuration allows for efficient counting and calculation, with the upper deck representing units and the lower deck representing multiples of five.
The use of the abacus is still taught in some schools in China, and it remains a popular tool for merchants and traders who need to perform quick calculations. While modern technology has largely replaced the abacus in most applications, it remains an important symbol of traditional Chinese culture and a reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of ancient Chinese mathematicians.
number 7 in Yin and Yang
In Chinese philosophy, the concept of Yin and Yang represents the idea of complementary opposites. Yin represents the feminine, passive, dark, and cold, while Yang represents the masculine, active, light, and warm. The interaction between Yin and Yang is thought to be the fundamental driving force behind all natural phenomena.
In the Yin-Yang theory, the number 7 is an important symbol that represents the integration of Yin and Yang. This is because the number 7 is the sum of 3 (representing Yang) and 4 (representing Yin). In traditional Chinese cosmology, the universe was believed to be divided into seven realms, each corresponding to a different level of existence.
The seven realms of Chinese cosmology are often depicted as a staircase, with each step representing a higher level of spiritual attainment. The first three steps represent the material realm, while the remaining four steps represent the spiritual realm. The seventh step represents the ultimate state of enlightenment and oneness with the universe.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the seven-step staircase is used as a metaphor for the body’s energy centers, known as chakras. The chakras are believed to correspond to different organs and functions in the body, and each is associated with a different color and element.
Overall, the number 7 is an important symbol in Yin-Yang philosophy as it represents the balance and integration of complementary opposites. The concept of Yin and Yang has been deeply ingrained in Chinese culture for thousands of years, and its influence can be seen in everything from traditional medicine to art and literature.
number 7 in Taoism
In Taoism, the number 7 has significant spiritual and cosmological meanings. Taoism emphasizes the harmony and balance between humanity and nature, and the number 7 is believed to represent this harmony.
One of the most important Taoist texts, the Tao Te Ching, is divided into 81 chapters, which is a multiple of 9, a number associated with the completion of a cycle. Each chapter is made up of 7 sections, which represent the 7 steps on the path to spiritual enlightenment.
The Taoist concept of the Seven Treasures refers to the seven virtues that one must cultivate to attain spiritual enlightenment. These treasures are compassion, frugality, humility, diligence, generosity, sincerity, and harmony. These virtues are believed to lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.
In Taoist cosmology, the universe is believed to be made up of two opposing forces, Yin and Yang. The number 7 is associated with the Yang energy, which is masculine and active. The seven celestial bodies in the Chinese constellations, which include the Big Dipper, are believed to be manifestations of Yang energy.
Taoist alchemy also recognizes the significance of the number 7. The Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper, which correspond to the seven major organs in the human body, are associated with the Seven Cycles of Internal Alchemy. These cycles involve refining and purifying the body’s energy to achieve immortality.
In Taoist art, the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove are a popular subject. These were a group of scholars and poets who lived in seclusion during the Wei and Jin dynasties and are revered for their wisdom and unorthodox lifestyles.
Overall, the number 7 in Taoism represents balance, completeness, and spiritual harmony. It is a reminder that one must cultivate the seven treasures and follow the seven steps to attain enlightenment and live in harmony with the natural world.
number 7 in china marriage
In Chinese culture, the number 7 is often associated with marriage, and there are several traditions and beliefs related to it.
One of the most significant is the belief that the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, known as Qixi Festival or Double Seventh Festival, is the most romantic day of the year. According to legend, this is the day when the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, two celestial beings who were separated by the Milky Way, can meet each other across the bridge of magpies formed by their flock.
In some regions of China, couples celebrate this day by exchanging gifts or going on a romantic date. Young single women also pray for a good husband and a happy marriage during this festival.
Moreover, in some Chinese traditions, the number 7 is also considered lucky for wedding dates. For example, the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, as mentioned earlier, is believed to be an auspicious date for weddings. Additionally, the seventh day of the first lunar month is also considered lucky, as it represents a new beginning and the start of a prosperous year.
Furthermore, some Chinese couples also choose to get married on the seventh day after the Chinese New Year, as this is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to their marriage.
In Chinese culture, the number 7 is also associated with the idea of harmony and balance, which are essential elements in a successful marriage. The seven musical notes, the seven colors of the rainbow, and the seven emotions are all considered representations of balance and harmony, which can be applied to relationships as well.
the itch of seven years
The “itch of seven years” is a phrase commonly used in Chinese culture to describe a feeling of restlessness or dissatisfaction that occurs after seven years of doing the same thing. It can refer to various aspects of life, including work, relationships, or even living in the same place.
The origins of this phrase can be traced back to traditional Chinese beliefs about the cycles of life. According to these beliefs, every seven years, the body undergoes a significant transformation, and the old cells are replaced with new ones. This cycle is said to continue throughout one’s life, with each cycle representing a new stage of development.
In ancient times, people believed that during the seventh year of each cycle, one’s body and mind were especially susceptible to change. This belief was reflected in many aspects of Chinese culture, including marriage customs, where it was believed that couples who had been married for seven years were more likely to experience difficulties in their relationship.
Today, the phrase “itch of seven years” is still used to describe the restlessness or dissatisfaction that can occur after a certain period of time. It is often associated with feelings of boredom or stagnation and can be a sign that it is time to make a change in one’s life.
In modern times, the phrase is used to describe a wide range of situations, from feeling trapped in a job to feeling restless in a long-term relationship. It is often seen as a call to action, encouraging individuals to take control of their lives and make changes that will help them to grow and develop.
seven warring states of china
The Warring States Period was a significant era in Chinese history that lasted from 475 BCE to 221 BCE, a time of political instability and military conflict among various states. During this period, the Zhou Dynasty had lost its control, and different states emerged and fought against each other for power and territory. The seven most powerful and influential states during this period were:
- Qin – Located in the western part of China, Qin was one of the most dominant and powerful states during the Warring States Period. It was known for its highly organized and disciplined army, and its ruler, Qin Shi Huang, went on to unify China and establish the first imperial dynasty.
- Chu – Located in the south-central part of China, Chu was known for its cultural and artistic achievements, including poetry, music, and literature. It was also a powerful military force, and its military strategies and innovations were highly respected.
- Qi – Located in the eastern part of China, Qi was known for its strong economy and agriculture, as well as its emphasis on education and scholarship. It produced many notable philosophers and scholars during this period.
- Zhao – Located in the northern part of China, Zhao was known for its strategic location and its military strength, which made it a formidable opponent for other states.
- Wei – Located in the central part of China, Wei was known for its military prowess and its highly skilled commanders, who were able to successfully carry out complex battle strategies.
- Han – Located in the western part of China, Han was known for its cultural and artistic achievements, as well as its economic prosperity, which was due in part to its location along the Silk Road.
- Yan – Located in the northeastern part of China, Yan was known for its strategic location and its military strength, which made it a key player in the conflict between various states during the Warring States Period.
These seven states were often at war with each other, and their struggles for power and territory shaped the political and social landscape of China for centuries to come.
number 7 in chinese four classic
There are two stories in “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” that have been passed down as legends for thousands of years and both involve the number seven.
The first is the story of Zhao Yun, who bravely charged into the chaotic battlefield of Changbanpo seven times to rescue Liu Adou, showcasing his bravery and loyalty.
The second is the story of Zhuge Liang capturing Meng Huo seven times, which gave rise to the idiom “Seven Captures and Seven Releases.” This story portrays how Zhuge Liang used his intelligence to win the loyalty of Meng Huo and ultimately bring him to the side of Shu Han. The repeated captures and releases of Meng Huo symbolize the power of forgiveness and the ability to win over one’s enemies without bloodshed.
Although war is a violent and costly affair, and people often say “three strikes and you’re out,” the author Luo Guanzhong portrayed war as child’s play with Zhuge Liang repeatedly capturing and releasing Meng Huo seven times, all to glorify Zhuge Liang’s character. Fortunately, Luo Guanzhong was just a writer, and not a military leader, as such a strategy would not have been practical in reality.
In “Water Margin,” the character Chao Gai had a dream where seven stars fell from the sky, perfectly aligned with the constellation of the Big Dipper. This led to the formation of the Seven Stars Alliance, which used their collective intelligence to steal the Birth Star Chart, which was deemed an unjust treasure. Chao Gai believed that it was fate that the stars had aligned in such a way, making their mission reasonable and right.
There are also stories related to “seven” in “Dream of the Red Chamber,” but they are more subtle. The Tai Xu Illusionary Realm, overseen by Jing Huan Xian Gu, includes not only the “Thinness of Fate Department” that Jia Baoyu reads, but also the “Department of Foolish Love,” “Department of Resentment,” “Department of Morning Crying,” “Department of Night Resentment,” “Department of Spring Sensation,” and “Department of Autumn Sorrow,” which together add up to seven departments. To welcome Yuan Chun’s visit, the Jia family spent a huge amount of money to build a magnificent Grand View Garden. After Yuan Chun’s visit, she feared that Jia Zheng would lock it up out of respect, leaving the garden empty. So, she asked Jia Zheng to allow her sisters who were skilled in poetry and painting to move into the garden. Lin Daiyu lived in the Charming Cottage, Xue Baochai in the Fragrant Bower, Jia Yingchun in the Adorning Splendor Tower, Jia Tanchun in the Autumn Refreshment Studio, Jia Xichun in the Reed Fragrance Chamber, and Li Wan in the Rice Fragrance Village. Including Miaoyu from the Langcui Monastery, seven of the twelve Gold Hairpins moved into the Grand View Garden.
There are even more stories related to “seven” in “Journey to the West.” There are seven celestial maidens in heaven and seven spiders on earth; each of the seven spiders has a son named “Seven Insect.” Sun Wukong used seven of his hairs to transform into seven eagles and ate the Seven Insects. When Sun Wukong became the king of Flower Fruit Mountain, he traveled in the demon world and formed a sworn brotherhood with six demon kings, known as the “Seven Demon Kings.” Before Sun Wukong embarked on his journey, he learned from Bodhi for seven years in the Slanting Moon Three Stars Cave, and later, he was locked in the alchemy furnace of Laojun for forty-nine days, becoming the Fire Eyes Golden Eyes. In addition, there is Kuimu Lang, who sneaked down to the mortal world and married the Bashful Princess, who is the first star of the Western Seven Stars among the 28 constellations in the four directions of the heavens, as ancient people believed.
Seven, like three, five, and nine, is a yang number that always has a middle point that is balanced and impartial.
Overall, the number 7 is considered a lucky number in China, and is associated with good luck, prosperity, and harmony. Its connections to mythology, numerology, and astrology have made it an important and enduring symbol in Chinese culture, and it is often used in art, literature, and everyday life as a symbol of good fortune and happiness.
