As a student of mythology, I have often found myself exploring myths of European or Native American peoples. But rarely have I had opportunity to catch a glimpse into the mindset of the myriad deities of the Chinese people. Like all peoples, the Chinese created myths about real or imagined people and places to provide examples of how customs and beliefs came to be.
Chinese Gods provides amazing insight into some of the history of the China in the distant past, but also provides the reader more understanding of the Chinese people today. As the world gets smaller and smaller through the overwhelming use of technology, it's good to read about Chinese legends of both historical and mythological people and places.
For example, Chamberlain goes into great detail in the first chapter about the geomantic science of feng-shui, which deals with using the energy of the environment to encourage or discourage various psychological effects. In the modern world, feng-shui has become very chic among the wealthy and famous to arrange their humble abodes to go with the flow instead of against it.
As far back as 3000 years ago, the magic square upon which many of the principles of feng-shui rely was discovered by the Chinese. Other cultures, from India and Egypt to Ireland, have also used the magic square. Generally it is found in ancient (and probably some modern) architecture in the design of temples and palaces. Symbolism is attached to the different cardinal points of the compass: south is summer and life; north, winter and death; east, spring and harmony; and west, autumn and harmony. In feng-shui, the door always points south, regardless of the actual compass direction.
Using this information as a guide, see if your house flows positive energy in the right direction of various rooms. I know mine doesn't!
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