Tag: Xuan Wu

The Xuan Wu is one of the Four Great Divine Beasts of China, i.e. one of the Four Elements (Si Xiang).

The Black Tortoise represents the north and is associated with the element of water, corresponding to winter.

The appearance of the Black Tortoise is a combination of a turtle and a snake (or Long).

Its back is covered with a turtle shell, surrounded by snakes, symbolizing longevity.

In Taoist philosophy, the Black Tortoise also represents the balance of yin and yang.