Why is the Forbidden City Called the Forbidden City?
The Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and China's grandest architectural achievement, attracts millions of visitors every year. But many wonder about the name: why "Forbidden City"? The answer lies in a fascinating blend of astronomy, cosmology, and imperial power.
The Emperor's Residence: A Reflection of Heaven
To understand the name, we must delve into ancient Chinese beliefs. They saw a direct correlation between the earthly realm and the heavens, a concept known as "Tian Ren He Yi" (天人合一), meaning "Heaven and Human are One."
The emperor, considered the "Son of Heaven," resided in a place believed to mirror the celestial order. This brings us to the Pole Star, known as "Ziwei Yuan" (紫微垣) in Chinese astronomy.
Ziwei Yuan: The Center of the Cosmos
The Pole Star, eternally fixed in the night sky, was believed to be the celestial emperor's residence and the pivot of the heavens. All other stars revolved around it. Similarly, the emperor's palace was considered the center of the terrestrial world, radiating power and influence outwards.
This parallel between the emperor's palace and the Pole Star's cosmic significance is crucial. The Forbidden City, therefore, gets its Chinese name, " Zijincheng" (紫禁城), from this association.
Forbidden: A Place of Restricted Access
The "Forbidden" aspect of the name emphasizes the palace's exclusivity and sanctity. This sprawling complex was the emperor's domain, accessible only to his family, concubines, court officials, and servants.
Ordinary citizens were strictly prohibited from entering. To do so meant risking severe punishment, even death. This inaccessibility further reinforced the aura of power and mystery surrounding the palace.
The Forbidden City Today: A Legacy Unveiled
Today, the Forbidden City stands as a magnificent testament to China's imperial past, its name echoing with centuries of history and tradition. While no longer forbidden, the palace remains a powerful symbol of Chinese culture, inviting visitors to explore its breathtaking architecture and delve into the captivating stories it holds.
Q&A:
1. What does "Ziwei Yuan" mean?
"Ziwei Yuan" refers to the Purple Forbidden Enclosure in Chinese astronomy, which centers around the Pole Star. It represents the celestial emperor's residence and the pivot point of the heavens.
2. Why was the Forbidden City built?
The Forbidden City was constructed to serve as the imperial palace for the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its purpose was to showcase imperial power, provide a secure residence for the emperor and his court, and embody the Chinese belief in a divinely ordained ruler.
3. What can we learn from the Forbidden City's name?
The name "Forbidden City" reflects ancient Chinese cosmology, the emperor's central role in their worldview, and the strict social hierarchy of imperial China. It highlights the close relationship between heaven and earth in their beliefs and the emperor's position as a link between the two.