Wan Shou Jin is a traditional auspicious patterned fabric. The term "卍" (the swastika symbol, pronounced as "wan") and "寿" (shòu, meaning longevity) in its name respectively symbolize "wan shou" (ten thousand years of life) and extended longevity. This fabric typically features swastika patterns (also known as "wan" patterns) and longevity characters, signifying good fortune, auspiciousness, and long life.
Swastika Pattern
The swastika symbol, known as the "wan" pattern in Chinese culture, has various meanings across different cultures but is generally considered a symbol of good fortune. In Chinese culture, it is often associated with Buddhism and is believed to bring good luck and happiness. The longevity character directly reflects wishes for long life and health.
Uses and Cultural Significance
Wan Shou Jin is used in various celebratory occasions, such as festivals, ceremonies, or special commemorative days, to express good wishes and the desire for a happy life. This fabric not only serves a practical purpose but also carries rich cultural significance and reflects people’s aspirations for a good life.
Detailed Introduction of Wan Shou Jin
The Meaning and Origin of the Swastika Pattern:
- Meaning: The swastika pattern, known as the "wan" pattern, symbolizes good fortune, myriad blessings, and long life. This pattern gives a sense of endless continuity, often used to express the desire for an unbroken chain of blessings and longevity.
- Origin: The swastika pattern has appeared in ancient civilizations such as those in India, Persia, Greece, and Egypt. It later became widely regarded as a symbol of good fortune. It is believed to have been introduced to China during the Eastern Han Dynasty with the spread of Buddhism, though some scholars suggest that swastika patterns were present in China's late Neolithic period. However, its widespread use in China indeed became more common with the introduction of Buddhism.
The Meaning and Categories of the Longevity Pattern:
- Meaning: The longevity pattern symbolizes wishes for long life, longevity as eternal as heaven, and other positive connotations. It is a beloved auspicious pattern in traditional clothing.
- Categories: The longevity pattern can be divided into three types: circular longevity ("tuan shou"), long longevity ("chang shou"), and flower longevity ("hua shou"). Circular longevity is round, symbolizing endless life; long longevity is elongated, signifying prolonged life; flower longevity combines the longevity character with other auspicious patterns, adding artistic value.
Characteristics and Applications of Wan Shou Jin:
Wan Shou Jin, with its intricate patterns and profound meanings, is a beloved fabric. By blending swastika and longevity patterns, it creates a distinctive auspicious design. This design not only enhances the fabric's aesthetic appeal but also embodies rich cultural connotations, showcasing the Chinese people's deep-seated wishes for good fortune and long life.
The swastika pattern represents myriad blessings and long life, while the longevity character directly signifies long life and health. When these two patterns are woven together in Wan Shou Jin, their auspicious meanings are amplified, making the fabric not just a practical material but also a symbolically rich artwork.
Historical Applications:
In ancient times, Wan Shou Jin was widely used in various auspicious occasions. Whether during festivals or wedding ceremonies, people wore garments made of Wan Shou Jin or used it for decorations to express their aspirations for a good life. In these significant moments, Wan Shou Jin served as a silent blessing, embodying people's hopeful wishes for the future.
Additionally, Wan Shou Jin represents an important aspect of ancient textile art. Its exquisite craftsmanship reflects the wisdom and creativity of ancient Chinese laborers. The ability to create such beautiful and culturally significant fabric in the context of relatively primitive textile technology is truly remarkable, highlighting the extraordinary achievements of Chinese culture and art.
Cultural Legacy:
Overall, Wan Shou Jin not only has high aesthetic value but also carries profound cultural significance. It is a testament to the wisdom of ancient people and an integral part of Chinese traditional culture. When we appreciate Wan Shou Jin, we feel a sense of pride and admiration for our industrious and creative ancestors. At the same time, Wan Shou Jin inspires us to continue preserving and promoting the excellent traditional culture of the Chinese nation, ensuring it shines even brighter in the new era.
References:
- [Last Words] Tan Shoulin's final writings in prison
- Guangxi Party History Story | Tan Shoulin: The first secretary of the Wuzhou Prefecture Committee of the CPC
- One Hundred Stories to Remember the Martyrs (42) | Tan Shoulin: Fighting fiercely to show loyalty
- Tan Shoulin - Hero Network Anti-Japanese War Hero People's Hero Network Hero Network
