Then & NowLiquid asset: water’s symbolic importance in Chinese culture
From holy wells to contaminated lead pipes, our water sources remain of vital importance
“Drink the water, remember its source”, so the ancient Chinese maxim maintains.
As well as a metaphorical prompt to recall one’s sources of personal nourishment, this saying literally reminds us to keep a watch on water quality. This issue has become particularly important in Hong Kong, where pipe-caused lead contamination has become a slow-burning public scandal.
Water’s symbolic importance in Chinese culture partially evolved because the country was – and remains – critically short of this vital commodity. With rising prosperity, increased demand continues to overstretch supply in many locations. Water pollution, in step with unchecked industrial development and sprawling urbanisation, has only become worse in recent years.
Water supplies from certain wells, however, historically became known for their purity and health benefits.
Chinese folk beliefs maintain that the fabled Seven Celestial Sisters descend to Earth on the night of the seventh day of the seventh lunar month to bathe in certain wells. From contact with their divine bodies the water in these wells is believed to acquire magical properties, which can be transmitted to mere mortals.
Carefully gathered and stored, this water, allegedly, remains fresh for at least a year and has a range of benefits. Mixed with small quantities of salt, it is used to treat colds, sore throats and minor ailments.