The Bladder Xiu (宿) : Yi (翼 ) and Zhen (壁)
Yi (翼 ) “Wings”
The Yi 翼 constellation is made of stars from the western constellations of Crater and Hydra. The character, 翼, not only means “wings,” but also “flank” and “shelter.” In this meaning, it can be noted that the reference to wings here is really focusing on their ability to protect the bird.
The Bladder serves to protect the body in it’s Taiyang relationship with the Small Intestine. It forms a smooth and sleek exterior protective force that resembles the qualities of feather covered wings on a bird.
In ancient times, this constellation was associated with a Grand Concert of Music and is still associated with music. This marks the connection that the Bladder and Kidney have with the ear.
Zhen (軫) “Carriage crosspiece”
The character, 軫, besides holding the meaning of this constellation also means, “revolve,” “crookedness,” “suffering,” and “affliction.” Most importantly, 軫, refers to the cross-piece of a carriage. In ancient times, the cross-piece was a horizontal board, or step piece, that was attached to each side of the carriage, on which a rider could stand upright and travel with the load.
This goes with the Bladder’s ability to keep the spine straight, and not crooked. The crosspiece can be seen to represent the ability of the rider to stand, balanced and straight while carrying the load.
Comments
Leave a Reply
Categories
Sites
Archives
This work is licensed under Creative Commons Attribution.
