There are six mythical beasts on the roof of the temple. What is the allusion to the "Five Ridges and Six Beasts" that puts these six beasts on the roof?

The "five spines and six beasts" on the roof of the temple slowly evolved from ancient Chinese myths and stories, implying the purpose of settling the house, warding off evil spirits, and bringing good luck.

The roofs of temple buildings are generally decorated with tiles in the shape of animals, or ceramics with colored glazes in the shape of animals, which are called ridge beasts. Except for palaces and temples, private residences cannot have animal spines installed unless they are famous. Only official residences that have been specially approved by the emperor can have animal spines for their residences. There is special emphasis on the spine of the animal. It is also called the "ceremony spine", which is used to express honor and is of great significance. Often on the roofs of large palaces and temples or Taoist temples, there are specific mythical beasts decorated. They are the "five spines and six beasts".

First, let’s talk about the origin of Wuji. Wuji literally means, as the name suggests, it means five roof ridges. The five ridges refer to the big ridge, which is also called the main ridge and the four vertical ridges that are indispensable for houses. The dragon beast with a straight spine is also called a swallowing beast. There are five crouching beasts lined up on the four vertical ridges. It adds up to a six-headed beast. Therefore, there are six beasts on the five ridges, so it is called "five spines and six beasts". This is the mythical beast that holds the ridge, which means auspiciousness. It is also a beautiful decoration for the house. It also acts as a thunderbolt to protect the building. The wisdom of the ancients is unparalleled.

As we all know, my country’s ancient buildings are mainly wooden structures, but the tiled animal ridges are decorated to prevent fires, avoid fires and eliminate disasters. The intersection of the two slopes of tiles in the shape is tightly sealed with swallowing beasts, which can effectively prevent rainwater from leaking and protect the house. There is a folk legend that the second son of the Dragon King competes for the throne, and the one who swallows the roof ridge first becomes the king. Therefore, there is a swallowing beast on the main ridge, which is fireproof, waterproof, and beautiful.

In ancient times, people paid attention to Feng Shui, so people folkloreized mythical beasts. In people's understanding, only mythical beasts can perform the mission of holding down the house.