What is a Qilin? The Feng Shui Meaning of the Chinese Dragon Horse

The Qilin is a mythical creature that is half dragon and half horse. It is said to be one of the most auspicious creatures in feng shui, and it is often used to symbolize good luck and prosperity.

In this article, we will discuss the legend behind the Qilin and what it means for your Feng Shui practice!

What is a Qilin?

The Qilin is a mythical creature from Chinese mythology. It is known for its grace and beauty, usually depicted with a head of the Chinese dragon, an elegant horse body, a deer horn, and a lion-like tail.

Female Qilins are called “lin” while males are referred to as “qi.”

Chinese art and literature often see them as guardians of harmony, protecting against evil.

Qilin Meaning

The Qilin meaning is all about good fortune.

In Chinese legend, the Qilin is said to bless people with good luck.

Many locals believe this creature will bring good fortune and success to whoever places its image in their homes. It is also regarded as good luck when placed in business establishments.

The character for qi also translates in English as "energy." Therefore, the Qilin is also a symbol of good chi energy, an essential element to bring success, good luck, and prosperity in feng shui.

Feng Shui practitioners often use the Qilin to bring positive energy into their homes and businesses. It is said that this fortune beast also has the power to ward off evil spirits and negative energy.

The Myth Behind the Chinese Dragon Horse

According to Chinese legend, the appearance of a Qilin  is an omen of good fortune.

It is said that this creature only appears when a sage or illustrious  ruler is born.

This has come to symbolize virtue, good luck, and prosperity.

The Qilin is also believed to reside far away from humans. They only appear when there is peace and harmony in the world. 

It is also believed that this fortune beast can only be seen by people of wisdom and virtue, thus making the creature itself an auspicious symbol.

Qilin Benefits

For centuries, Chinese mythology has associated the Qilin with guarding the gates of heaven. The presence of this emblem at one's house or workplace is said to bring protection, wealth, and good fortune to the owner. 

Qilin for Protection

Qilin is traditionally used as a shield similar to the Fu Dogs and Pixiu. As a result, Qilin can be placed at the house's front door to draw good energy.

Place the statues on a vantage point. The Unicorn is a higher-ranking Feng Shui guardian than other guardians, and it will protect the home from harmful energies.

Wall scrolls or small figurines of the Chinese Unicorn can be placed in the East or southeast corner of your living room, which corresponds to the areas of health, family, and abundance.

Qilin can be placed in a foyer near the main door but never face the front door, even if the door is open.

Qilin for Wealth

The Qilin is also a popular symbol of good luck when it comes to money. Feng shui practitioners often place its image in the wealth area of their homes or businesses to attract abundance and prosperity.

Qilin for Good Luck

In Feng Shui, the Qilin is a potent treatment for energizing the north Bagua region, which corresponds to the person's career. Use the symbol as a desk decoration. This is a great way to improve your career luck.

Qilin for Children 

The appearance of a Qilin is an omen of the birth of a sage or even an Emperor. Therefore, this creature is also associated with good luck for children. To help children with their studies, you can place a Qilin statue in their room or in the west sector of your home.

How to Use Qilin in Feng Shui

Now that you know the meaning and benefits of Qilin in feng shui, it's time to learn how to use this powerful symbol in your own practice.

You can place an image of the Qilin, be it a painting, sculpture, or figurine, in the sectors of your home or office that need a boost of good luck.

Here are some examples:

• Place it by the front door to bring protection and good luck to the home.
• Place it in the southeast area of your home or business to attract prosperity.
• Place it in the north sector to invite career luck.
• Place it in the children's room to help with their studies.

Qilin vs. Pixiu

Qilin and Pixiu are both symbols of good luck and prosperity in China. 

The two creatures may look similar, but they're quite different.

Pixiu is a more common figure in feng shui, while Qilin is considered to be more rare and powerful.

Pixiu is also a bit more aggressive in appearance, while Qilin is known for its grace and beauty.

Both Pixiu and Qilin are said to have the power to ward off evil spirits.

The Qilin is said to appear when a sage or wise person comes into the world, while Pixiu is was said to be the youngest child of the Dragon King.

The Bottom Line

Regardless of how you choose to use it, the Qilin is a powerful symbol of good fortune and prosperity.

Try incorporating this mythical creature into your feng shui practice today and see what kind of luck it brings you.

Do you have a Qilin in your home or office? How has it been working for you? Let us know in the comments below.