The myth of the Dragon King, also known as Chang Jiang Long Wang, is one of the most fascinating stories in Chinese folklore. This legendary figure has been a part of Chinese mythology for thousands of years and continues to captivate people around the world. As we delve into this enchanting tale, let us explore how it fits within the broader context of "China's 100 Mythological Stories in English."
The Origins
In ancient Chinese culture, dragons symbolized power, strength, and good fortune. They were revered creatures that inhabited not only land but also water bodies such as rivers and seas. The concept of a dragon king who ruled over these waters was born out of this deep respect for these magnificent beings.
The Legend
According to legend, Chang Jiang Long Wang was once a mortal man who lived during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE). He was said to be an honest and just ruler who governed his kingdom with wisdom and fairness. One day while taking a stroll by the riverbank with his wife, he accidentally fell asleep under a tree branch that hung precariously close to the water. When he woke up later that night due to some noise from passing boats on the river below him; he saw his wife being carried away by those boats without any warning or explanation.
Horrified at what had happened before his very eyes; he rushed down towards them trying desperately to save her life from drowning but alas! She slipped beneath those waves never returning again leaving behind their young daughter alone & orphaned at birth!
This incident left him heartbroken beyond words causing him immense sorrow & grief which eventually led him into meditation seeking solace within himself through various spiritual practices like yoga postures & breathing exercises etc., till finally after many long years passed away peacefully content knowing she would always remain alive forevermore living inside my own soul now eternally connected!
