What's the difference between the dragon and the phoenix on Mazu's clothes?

The dragon and phoenix on Mazu's clothes are important totems in China traditional culture, representing auspiciousness. Although both dragons and phoenixes are mythical animal images, their shapes and symbolic meanings are different.

The first is the difference in form. Dragons are usually described as animals with dragon or snake bodies, with horns, scales, claws and wings. Legend has it that dragons have unpredictable abilities, can control the weather, and symbolize authority and strength.

Phoenix is generally described as a bird with beautiful feathers, a crest on its head and colorful feathers on its tail. Phoenix is a lucky bird in ancient legends, symbolizing auspiciousness, beauty and happiness.

Secondly, it is the difference in symbolic meaning. In China culture, the dragon is regarded as the symbol of ancestors and emperors, representing power, majesty and auspiciousness. Many emperors in the history of China claimed to be descendants of dragons. Dragons are also regarded as the embodiment of water, which is closely related to the harvest of natural resources such as rain.

Phoenix is regarded as a symbol of benevolence, virtue and virtue, representing auspiciousness, glory and happiness. According to legend, the phoenix only appears when the world is at peace and a gentleman runs the country.

Generally speaking, both dragons and phoenixes are important totems in China culture, representing authority, strength, auspiciousness and happiness, but there are some differences in form and symbolic meaning. I hope this answer is helpful to you.