| Azure Dragon | |
|---|---|
 | |
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Other Names |
Qinglong, Seiryū, Cheongryong, Thanh Long, Cānglóng |
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First Appearance |
Chinese Mythology |
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Created by |
Chinese Mythology |
Origin[]
The Azure Dragon, also known as Qinglong in Chinese, is one of the Dragon Gods who represent the mount or chthonic forces of the Five Regions' Highest Deities (Wǔfāng Shàngdì). It is also one of the Four Symbols of the Chinese constellations, which are the astral representations of the Wufang Shangdi. The Azure Dragon represents the east and the spring season. It is also sometimes referred to as the Blue-green Dragon, Green Dragon, or the Blue Dragon (Cānglóng).
The Dragon is frequently referred to in the media, feng shui, other cultures, and in various venues as the Green Dragon and the Avalon Dragon. His cardinal direction's epithet is "Bluegreen Dragon of the East" (Dōngfāng Qīnglóng or Dōngfāng Cānglóng).
As belief in astrology waned over the centuries, worship of the Four Symbols was replaced by worship of the Four Heavenly Kings of Buddhism, but their use as symbols are still used today.
Notes[]
- In the anime series One Piece, the villain Kaidou ate the Uo Uo no Mi, Model: Seiryu devil fruit that allowed him to transform into a hybrid or full Azure Dragon at will.
- In the anime YuYu Hakusho, there is group of villains called the Saint Beasts who attempted to cause havoc in the Human World. Each member is based on one of the Four Symbols including Seiryū who was based on the Azure Dragon.
- In the reboot continuity of Archie Sonic the Hedgehog, Dulcy the Dragon’s new redesign and role as leader of the Shijin Warriors has her assume the role of the Azure Dragon.