The Four Ancient Guardian Spirits Passed Down by Our Ancestors: Do You Have Them in Your Home?

Nowadays, many people enjoy keeping pets. Having a pet to accompany you during moments of tiredness and leisure brings joy and comfort.

About the act of keeping pets, elders particularly believe that pets are soulful creatures。 Taking good care of them not only makes them understand human nature but also protects the household and brings prosperity to the owner!

Tortoise

The Liji: Liyun (Book of Rites and Rites) states: “The unicorn, phoenix, tortoise, and dragon are called the four divine animals。”

Tortoises, as the rulers of all creatures with a hard shell, have an extremely long lifespan。 They are calm and steady, slightly slow but patient enough to endure hunger and thirst。 They symbolize longevity, practicality, and determination。

In ancient times, people often used tortoise shells for divination to determine auspiciousness or misfortune。 Tortoises also represent strength and resilience。 Furthermore, the domed back of a turtle resembles the sky, while its belly is flat like the earth, with its legs supporting it like pillars holding up the heavens—a perfect match for the “heaven round and earth square” concept。

Such harmony with the principles of heaven and earth—how can anyone not love it!

Rooster

The word ‘roommate’ sounds like ‘ji’ (auspicious), meaning “auspicious。” In Chinese culture, the Year of the Rooster is considered a year of good fortune。 There was a traditional New Year painting depicting a crowing rooster and peony flowers。 Families with scholars would paste this painting on their walls during the Lunar New Year, symbolizing ” Honor, wealth, and prosperity.
Additionally, roosters have bright feathers and powerful calls。 Their crests atop their heads represent career advancement and success。 The saying ‘When the rooster crows, the world becomes bright’ symbolizes new beginnings and hope.
Moreover, roosters are seen as symbols of righteousness and courage—images like ” A shepherd dog traveling thousands of miles to find its master “highlights their unwavering loyalty.

Dogs

Dogs are considered the most understanding animals and the best friends of humans。

They are extremely loyal to their owners, symbolizing faithfulness and devotion。 Stories like ‘Duty bound dogs saving their masters’ demonstrate this.
There is a Chinese saying: ‘Cats bring poverty, dogs bring wealth’, indicating that owning a dog in the home is a sign of prosperity.
Dogs are classified as “yang animals。” Their presence brings positive energy and harmony to any household。 In Feng Shui, they are believed to enhance family unity and emotional bonds。

Koi Fish

Among all Feng Shui symbols, the koi fish is particularly auspicious。 Koi fish are known for their resilience—they can leap over waterfalls and travel upstream without hesitation。

In Chinese mythology, it is said that a koi who reaches the Dragon Gate (a mythical portal) can transform into a dragon—a symbol of transcendence and elevation。 This makes them a powerful Feng Shui symbol for career advancement and good fortune。
Moreover, the vibrant colors of koi fish—especially red ones—are believed to attract luck and ward off evil energies。

Final Note

If you want to enhance your life energy or improve your luck, consider incorporating these soulful pets into your life。 But remember—the best way to invite prosperity is by fostering harmony within yourself and your surroundings。
If you’d like professional guidance on how to apply Feng Shui principles in your life, feel free to consult with a certified Feng Shui practitioner。