Engaging Dragons

The Chinese Long and the Biblical Dragon in the Chinese Lunar Year of the Dragon

Some of us will be celebrating the Chinese Lunar Year of the Dragon in a few weeks. 2024 is the year of the Wood Dragon, starting on February 10th, 2024 (Chinese New Year) and ending on January 28th, 2025 (Chinese New Year's Eve). Many Chinese regard the Year of the Dragon as auspicious, especially for babies born during it. Chinese families can expect many new additions to their families soon. The numerous wedding receptions performed in the last few months indicate the preparation for this. This essay seeks to explore the symbolism of the dragon in Chinese culture, contrast it with its portrayal in Christian scriptures, and discuss the Christian approach to concepts of luck and divination, focusing on respectful engagement with diverse cultures.

The Chinese Year of the Dragon

In Chinese culture, the Chinese New Year celebration stands out as a period imbued with deep historical and cultural significance. This time is not just a festive occasion but a profound embodiment of ancient customs, beliefs, and the enduring spirit of the Chinese people. In this cultural milieu, the dragon transcends its mythical status, emerging as a potent symbol of power, prosperity, and wisdom, deeply entwined with the Chinese identity and philosophical outlook. Among contemporary Chinese communities, the zodiac dragon symbolises good luck and prosperity, with many parents hoping to get a ‘dragon’ baby delivered in this auspicious year.

Contrasting sharply with Western depictions of dragons as malevolent forces, the Chinese dragon is revered as a harbinger of good fortune, a protector of wealth and prosperity, and a symbol of the natural world's harmony. The Chinese dragon, also known as the loong, long or lung (simplified Chinese: 龙; traditional Chinese: 龍; pinyin: lóng) is an icon that resonates with the values of nobility, honour, and the pursuit of excellence, which are highly esteemed in Chinese culture. The dragon's link to water and rain in Chinese mythology highlights its crucial role in agriculture and prosperity, underpinning its significance in a society where harmony with nature is cherished.

This reverence for the dragon in Chinese tradition vividly illustrates the adaptability and sensitivity advocated by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:22, where he speaks of becoming "all things to all people" in the mission to spread the Gospel. This biblical wisdom urges Christians to approach diverse cultural expressions with respect and a willingness to understand. Engaging with the Chinese Year of the Dragon is an opportunity to practice this cultural empathy, recognising the deep meanings these traditions hold for those who celebrate them.

Moreover, the depiction of the dragon in Chinese culture as a wise and benevolent entity invites us to challenge the often-singular narrative of dragons in Western thought. It opens the door to a more nuanced understanding of how different cultures interpret their symbols and legends. This broader perspective fosters intercultural dialogue and appreciation, resonating with our Christian values of love, understanding, and respect for diverse backgrounds. (Appendix A: World Dragon Mythologies)

Reflecting on the Chinese Year of the Dragon, we find a rich source of cultural wisdom and insight. It beckons us to explore the diversity of God's creation, manifested in the myriad of cultural expressions and traditions worldwide. This exploration is not just an academic exercise but a spiritual journey that deepens our understanding and appreciation of the vastness and richness of our world, echoing the diversity and complexity of God’s creation.

The Dragon in Christian Tradition

In Christian Scripture, the dragon emerges as a complex symbol, predominantly associated with evil and deception, most notably depicted in Revelation 12:9. This passage describes a great dragon, identified as Satan, who leads the whole world astray. The imagery here is potent and evocative, presenting a spiritual reality that starkly contrasts the benevolent and auspicious symbol of the dragon in Chinese culture. This dichotomy invites Christians to a deeper reflection on the nature of symbols in our faith tradition.

Ephesians 6:12 provides a profound context for understanding this contrast: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." This passage reminds us that the Christian understanding of evil and its representations, like the dragon in Revelation, is fundamentally spiritual. It calls for discernment in recognising the spiritual implications behind symbols and their meanings, particularly in different cultural and religious contexts.

Moreover, this imagery of the dragon as an embodiment of evil in Christian tradition has deep theological implications. It serves as a metaphor for the pervasive nature of sin and the cosmic struggle between good and evil, a theme central to Christian doctrine. The dragon's portrayal as a formidable adversary in the Book of Revelation underscores the seriousness with which Christianity regards the forces of evil and the constant vigilance required in spiritual life.

However, while the dragon in Christian scripture symbolises spiritual opposition, it also highlights God’s power and sovereignty. The ultimate defeat of the dragon in Revelation signifies the triumph of good over evil, a cornerstone of Christian eschatological hope. This narrative arc from conflict to victory provides Christians with a framework for understanding the nature of spiritual warfare and the assuredness of God’s final victory over evil.

In the broader context of Christian engagement with other cultures, the contrasting symbolism of the dragon between Christian and Chinese traditions presents an opportunity for dialogue and understanding. It challenges us to consider how symbols can be interpreted differently across cultures and how these interpretations reflect those cultures' underlying values and beliefs. As Christians, we are called to approach these differences with a spirit of openness and respect, seeking to understand rather than to judge.

The dragon's representation in Christian scripture offers a rich source for theological reflection and spiritual insight. It reminds us of the complexity of our spiritual journey and the need for discernment in interpreting and understanding the symbols and narratives that shape our faith. As we engage with different cultural interpretations of these symbols, we are invited into a deeper appreciation of the diverse ways the divine can be understood and represented across the world's cultures.

Divination in the Bible

The topic of divination in the Bible is approached with a clear and unequivocal stance, particularly evident in passages like Deuteronomy 18:10-12. Here, divination is grouped with other practices considered detestable to the Lord, representing a reliance on sources other than God for guidance and knowledge about the future. This biblical admonition reflects a core principle of Judeo-Christian belief: the sovereignty of God in all matters of life and history and the sufficiency of His wisdom and guidance.

In contrast, the cultural belief in the good luck associated with the Chinese dragon, a prevalent feature in the celebrations of the Chinese New Year, does not typically involve an active pursuit of future knowledge or supernatural intervention. Instead, it is often expressed as a traditional symbol of hope, prosperity, and auspiciousness. This cultural practice is more akin to a communal expression of good wishes for the future rather than an attempt to divine what the future holds.

Philippians 4:6-7 offers a profound biblical perspective on this matter, urging believers to be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, to present their requests to God. This teaching underlines a vital aspect of the Christian faith - reliance on God rather than uncertain and fallible methods to discern the future. It emphasises a posture of trust and dependence on God, who cares for the needs and concerns of His people.

Furthermore, this distinction between divination and cultural expressions of hope is crucial for Christians as they navigate and engage with practices from other cultures. In 1 Thessalonians 5:21, the apostle Paul advises believers to “test everything; hold fast what is good.” This suggests a balanced approach, where Christians are encouraged to discern and understand the cultural practices they encounter, distinguishing those compatible with their faith from those enacted.

In understanding the cultural context of the Chinese dragon as a symbol of good fortune, Christians are called to exercise discernment and wisdom. It is an opportunity to engage in meaningful cultural exchange and to appreciate the values and traditions of others while maintaining fidelity to the core tenets of their faith. This discernment is not just a rejection of practices contrary to biblical teaching but also an affirmation of those cultural expressions that align with the broader Christian ethos of hope, community, and blessings. The Christian faith does not call for a withdrawal from the cultural practices of others but rather a thoughtful and prayerful engagement, where we seek to understand and respect, guided by the wisdom and principles of our faith. This approach allows for a respectful dialogue with other cultures, fostering mutual understanding and enriching our spiritual journey.

Cultural Appreciation and Christian Ethics

In Christian ethics, engaging with cultural traditions such as the Chinese New Year, specifically the Year of the Dragon, transcends mere participation in a cultural event. It becomes an enactment of the profound scriptural teachings about love, unity, and accepting diversity as part of God's magnificent creation. Galatians 3:28 speaks to the breaking down of barriers between Jew and Gentile, slave and free, male and female, in Christ, is pivotal here. This passage calls Christians to a deeper level of cultural engagement, one that views every cultural expression as a facet of the imago Dei, the image of God in humanity.

This spiritual journey into cultural appreciation, especially in the context of the Chinese New Year, is an opportunity to manifest the Christian virtues of love, respect, and humility. Appreciating the symbolic richness of the dragon within this celebration allows Christians to honour the diversity of God’s creation and the variegated ways in which different cultures express their understanding of the world. It is a tangible demonstration of the scriptural mandate to love our neighbours, embracing their cultural expressions as a part of loving them wholly.

Yet, this cultural journey must be navigated with a heart and mind firmly rooted in faith. It calls for a discerning spirit that is keenly aware of the delicate balance between cultural appreciation and the maintenance of one's faith convictions. As Paul urges in 1 Corinthians 10:31, whatever we do, including our engagement with cultural practices, should be done for the glory of God. Our participation should thus be an extension of our worship, a means to reflect God's grace and love to others and not a deviation from our core beliefs.

Furthermore, engaging with different cultures is not only about participation but also about a deep spiritual understanding. It is an exercise in humility and learning, recognising that the manifold wisdom of God can be reflected in the world's diverse cultural narratives and practices. Jesus Christ modelled this engagement with diverse cultures, often reaching across cultural boundaries to heal, teach, and show love.

Christian Concerns about the Dragon Image in Chinese Culture

Understanding the concerns of some Chinese Christians about the dragon image, especially those with a background in traditional Chinese religion, requires a compassionate and nuanced approach. It is essential to recognise that these fears are not without basis, especially given the rich spiritual and symbolic tapestry of Chinese traditional beliefs where the dragon often occupies a significant role.

In traditional Chinese culture, the dragon is a complex symbol, often associated with spiritual power and considered a guardian or a bringer of fortune. However, for those who have come to Christianity from a background steeped in these traditions, the dragon can be seen through a different lens – one where spiritual entities and forces, including what some might interpret as demons, are a real and concerning presence.

As Christians, our first response should be one of empathy and understanding. In 1 Corinthians 9:22, the Apostle Paul said, "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." This approach requires us to enter into the experiences and perspectives of others, respecting their views even as we gently share our own.

We must also provide a balanced perspective based on the Bible, which is our ultimate authority. While the Bible does associate dragons with evil in books like Revelation, it is crucial to differentiate between cultural symbols and scriptural symbols. Unlike its depiction in Western mythology and Christian scripture, the dragon in Chinese culture is not inherently evil. Instead, it is a complex symbol that embodies many qualities, including strength, wisdom, and good luck.

This leads to an essential distinction between cultural appreciation and spiritual endorsement. It is possible to acknowledge and appreciate the dragon as a cultural symbol without necessarily attributing any spiritual or demonic power to it. Our. As Christians, we believe that “there is no authority except that which God has established” (Romans 13:1). Our ultimate allegiance is to God, and our understanding of spiritual forces is framed by our faith in Christ, who has triumphed over all powers and authorities.

Daniel Tong, in his excellent book, A Biblical Approach to Chinese Traditions and Belief, has this to say,

There is no power or demon in the physical representation of the long [Chinese dragon]. The Christian objection to the long does not lie in it being a mythical creature, word-picture of consummate evil or possible representation of the devil, or even in it having a demonic spirit attached. It lies in the veneration (bordering on or running into worship) accorded to it by individuals and the overwhelming trust placed upon its efficacy to protect and deliver one from evil. Venerating the long in such a manner draws worship away from our Lord Jesus Christ  (2003, 140, italics author).

For those still uncomfortable or fearful, it's important to affirm their feelings and guide them in a way that respects their convictions. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to be anxious for nothing but to present our requests to God through prayer and petition. Encouraging a prayerful approach to these concerns allows individuals to seek peace and guidance directly from God.

As Christians, our goal should be to walk alongside those who have concerns, offering understanding, biblical counsel, and prayerful support. We should encourage a healthy dialogue that allows for cultural appreciation while maintaining a clear and firm foundation in our Christian faith. This approach honours individual convictions and enriches our collective understanding as a diverse body of Christ.

Conclusion

Engaging with the Chinese Year of the Dragon, therefore, is more than a passive observation of cultural festivities. It is an active discernment process where we seek to understand God’s perspective on cultural expressions. This process involves a deep respect for the cultural heritage and traditions of others while simultaneously holding fast to our Christian convictions. It is about finding that delicate balance where we can appreciate and learn from other cultures without compromising the core tenets of our faith.

Moreover, our engagement with other cultures reflects our commitment to the greatest commandments, as taught by Jesus: to love God and to love our neighbours as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). Loving our neighbours involves a willingness to understand and respect their cultural backgrounds and practices. It means seeing beyond our cultural lenses and recognising the imago Dei, the image of God, in every person and every culture.

This journey of cultural engagement also serves as a powerful witness to the world. In a world often divided by cultural and religious differences, our respectful and loving engagement with practices like the Chinese Year of the Dragon can demonstrate the unifying and transformative power of the Gospel. It shows that our faith does not isolate and divide but unites and embraces love.

However, this journey has its challenges. It requires us to constantly seek wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit to ensure that our engagement is respectful to others and faithful to God. It calls for an ongoing process of self-examination and growth as we learn to see and appreciate the diverse ways God’s creativity is expressed in human cultures.

As Christians living in a diverse and interconnected world, engaging with different cultural practices is a calling to manifest the love, understanding, and unity at the heart of our faith. It is an opportunity to demonstrate that our faith in Christ transcends cultural boundaries and unites us in our shared humanity. As we navigate these engagements, let us do so with hearts and minds attuned to God’s will, always seeking to glorify Him in our thoughts, words, and actions.

Appendix A: World Dragon Mythologies

The mythology of dragons spans many cultures worldwide, with each culture having its unique interpretation and significance attached to these mythical creatures. Here are some highlights from various dragon mythologies:

1. Chinese Mythology: In Chinese culture, dragons are revered as powerful and benevolent symbols. They are traditionally seen as bringers of rain, which is vital for agriculture and are associated with strength, good luck, and prosperity. Unlike Western dragons, Chinese dragons are typically depicted without wings, with long serpentine bodies.

2. European Mythology: In contrast, European dragons are often depicted as evil. They are commonly shown as significant, fire-breathing creatures with wings and a reptilian appearance. European dragon myths frequently involve a hero slaying a dragon to save a community or a maiden, as seen in the legend of Saint George and the Dragon.

3. Norse Mythology: Norse legends feature dragons as powerful and often destructive creatures. One of the most famous is Jörmungandr, the Midgard Serpent, who is so large that he encircles the Earth. Norse dragons are often linked with death and destruction.

4. Japanese Mythology: Japanese dragons share similarities with Chinese dragons; they are generally benevolent and associated with water. They are often considered water gods. Ryūjin, for example, is a dragon god of the sea who controls the tides.

5. Slavic Mythology: In Slavic folklore, dragons are typically seen as evil and destructive. A famous example is the dragon Zmey Gorynych from Russian folklore, often depicted as a dragon with three heads, each spitting fire.

6. Middle Eastern Mythology: Dragons in Middle Eastern cultures are often depicted as large serpentine creatures, sometimes with multiple heads. They appear in various myths and religious texts, including the Judeo-Christian tradition, sometimes symbolising significant chaos or evil.

7. Mesoamerican Mythology: In Aztec and Mayan cultures, dragon-like creatures often symbolise the amalgamation of different animals and are associated with natural elements. Quetzalcoatl, for example, is a feathered serpent deity in Aztec culture, combining the features of a serpent and a bird.

8. Indian Mythology: In Hindu and Buddhist myths, dragons and serpentine creatures known as Nāgas hold significant roles. They are often considered protectors of treasures and are revered for their wisdom.

The dragon's appearance and attributes vary greatly among these cultures, reflecting each society's values, fears, and aspirations. These myths have endured throughout history, influencing art, literature, and popular culture worldwide.