When in legendary times an army set out on a campaign, four banners fluttered above it - symbols of the four countries of the world. In front they carried a yellow banner depicting the symbol of the South, Zhongyao - a red bird similar to a fenghuang - with the same luxurious peacock tail and a crest resembling a trident. The banner was carried first because the South was considered the most honorable country in the world. It illuminated the path to victory and awakened the hot fire of courage in the hearts of the warriors.
The column was closed by the black banner of the North. It depicted the symbol of this country of light - a turtle intertwined with a snake. Black was the most favorite color of the supreme ruler of the dark sky of the North. The Lord of the North was called Xuan-wu, which means “dark warlikeness.” The Jade Emperor once heard about his bravery and ordered him to go down to earth to eradicate all evil spirits. Xuan-wu appeared in the human world and in just a week destroyed all werewolves, demons and robbers. To find yourself behind the banner of the North during a battle was a disgrace for a warrior.
To the right of the army there was always a banner depicting the symbol of the West, Baihu - the white tiger. Where the sun set was the kingdom of the dead, and the white tiger usually lived there. If the army was defeated, the unlucky commanders laid the blame on the guardian of the land of the dead. “The white tiger has left us!” - they exclaimed, falling on their faces before the emperor.
And finally, to the left of the army there was a banner with the symbol of the East, Qin-long - the green dragon. Spring comes from the east, which is why Qin-long is green in color. The appearance of the Qin moon-spring was considered a happy omen. It is said that he had a remarkable ability to scatter pearls, gold and silver. For warriors, in case of victory, this meant getting rich trophies.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru