In selecting a site for a cemetery, the Chinese thought of the dragon, the symbol of Heaven, earth and sea.
If the dragon were happy, then the Chinese reasoned that the spirits of his father and mother would be at peace and happy.
The site must be on a mound with undulating curves where the imagination of the Chinese pictured the dragon (lum) resting at ease.
The mound must be enclosed by mountains and have a nice view of the heavens, the mountains and the water.
These three things, heaven, earth and water would make the dragon happy and so make the spirits of those buried there happy.
Westerners who knew better are horrified when they visit China and see the most beautiful spots occupied by cemeteries. They do not realize the philosophy behind the selection of the site.
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| Manoa Chinese Cemetery Welcome Gate |
It fulfills all the needs - mountains at the back and sides, an undulating mound, and a beautiful, serene view of the sky and seacoast.
A TREE
If there be no tree growing atop the mound to provide shade and comfort, the Chinese will plant a tree. The tree provides an excellent place for the spirits to rest in and look at the view.
The mountains surrounding the Manoa cemetery are perfect for this reason. They act as the back and arms of a chair so that the dragon can rest.
The mountains shut off strong winds, so that a hard wind cannot sweep the spirits away from their peaceful home.
OBLIGATION
The view from the cemetery fulfills and important obligation. It is peaceful and has the water of the ocean in front.
The ocean, a stream or a ditch in front of the cemetery is important because spirits are apt to get restless if something goes wrong with their descendants.
The spirits may wander away from their cemetery home, but when they come to water they turn back and find their homes.
Spirits never attempt to cross water, nor are they ever drowned in it.
NEXT: Foong shui.
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