Video 2: The Golden River
Video 2 Quiz
1. How many bridges
are there across the golden river?
a. 4
b. 5
c. 6
2. Which one is the only bridge that can be used by emperor?
a. the left one
b. the middle one
c. the right one
3. Which one is not the function of water in the golden river?
a. fire hydrant
b. drinking
c. wash hands
a. 4
b. 5
c. 6
2. Which one is the only bridge that can be used by emperor?
a. the left one
b. the middle one
c. the right one
3. Which one is not the function of water in the golden river?
a. fire hydrant
b. drinking
c. wash hands
Video 2 Transcript
The golden river is also known as Jade Ribbon River or Jade Belt River.
The five bridges represent the five Confucian virtues of humanity, sense of duty, wisdom, reliability and (ceremonial) propriety.
Also, the 5 bridges marked the social classes.
The middle bridge could only be used by the emperor. And normal people could only use the side bridge. The two flanking it are reserved for royal family members while the two outer ones are for ordinary officials. The bridges are well decorated with marble balustrades carved with motifs of dragon and phoenix.
The river serves as fire hydrant in case of fire as well as serving the principles of FengShui and decoration. Its bed and sides are paved with white stone to enhance the beauty of the water. According to the principles of Feng Shui, the ideal location for a home is facing south with water in front (the Golden River) and a mountain or hill behind.
The five bridges represent the five Confucian virtues of humanity, sense of duty, wisdom, reliability and (ceremonial) propriety.
Also, the 5 bridges marked the social classes.
The middle bridge could only be used by the emperor. And normal people could only use the side bridge. The two flanking it are reserved for royal family members while the two outer ones are for ordinary officials. The bridges are well decorated with marble balustrades carved with motifs of dragon and phoenix.
The river serves as fire hydrant in case of fire as well as serving the principles of FengShui and decoration. Its bed and sides are paved with white stone to enhance the beauty of the water. According to the principles of Feng Shui, the ideal location for a home is facing south with water in front (the Golden River) and a mountain or hill behind.
Forbidden City Videos
Video 1: The Meridian Gate Video 2: The Golden River Video 3: The Outer Court Video 4: The Lives of the Eunuchs Video 5: Ming Power Structure
Video 6: Hall of Supreme Harmony Video 7: Palace of Heavenly Purity Video 8: Palace of Earthly Tranquility Video 9: The Imperial Garden
Video 10: Imperial Sight Pavilion Video 11: Palace Defenses Video 12: Daily Life of the Emperor Video 13: Lives of the Concubines
Ming Tombs Videos
Video 14: Death and the Ming Tombs Video 15: The Ming Dynasty Video 16: Admiral Zheng He