In the "Year of the Water Dragon," it is not surprising that
"Phoenix and Dragon" has emerged as a mandala celebrating
ancient and powerful symbolism as well as Manipura chakra, the energy
center located in the area of the solar plexus. Unlike the phoenix of the
West, the Chinese phoenix carries the connotation of joy and peace rather
than a firebird rising from the ashes. It is believed she makes an
appearance only in times of prosperity, peace and good government. Unlike,
the dragons of Europe, the Chinese dragon symbolizes benevolence,
prosperity, longevity and the renewal of life. A dragon and phoenix shown
together represent a happy and harmonious union, conjoined the union of
man and woman. The pearl is associated with wealth, good luck and
prosperity; a flaming pearl with wisdom, enlightenment and spiritual
perfection. Within the jeweled lotus palace of the mandala, they dance
eternally in a perfect balance of power, wealth and love, supported by the
guardian koi in their continual, amazing feats of endurance.
Manipura
(meaning "jewel city") chakra is the center of physical and
material strength, with emphasis on ruling over the lower regions. It's
color yellow, like amber, is the color of balance and renewal of the
nervous system. It is ruled by the Sixth Light Ray, the ray of Peace. Once
this center is entirely purified and open, we gain full protection against
fear and the destructive tendencies of others as well as from our own
lower physical impulses. It is in Manipura that we at last free ourselves
from our illusions and our complexes. Negatively, it is the seat of greed,
overeating, insatiability and fear. When unblocked, Manipura manifests in
an increased sense of self-esteem, clear vision of the meaning of one's
own existence and the realization that seemingly impossible dreams can be
fulfilled. The spiritual becomes the basis for all of life's activities.
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