Core Insights - The article emphasizes the significant cultural and historical role of horses in Chinese civilization, highlighting their importance in agriculture, transportation, and military activities [1][2][3]. Group 1: Symbolism in "I Ching" - The "I Ching" features the horse as a key symbol, with eleven references across various hexagrams, particularly in "Kun" and "Tun," illustrating its dual nature of gentleness and strength [3][4]. - The "I Ching" associates the horse with auspiciousness and the ability to transform misfortune into good fortune, reflecting its multifaceted significance in Chinese philosophy [3][4]. Group 2: Historical Context - Historical texts like "Shan Hai Jing" and "Shi Jing" depict the horse's vital role in ancient society, showcasing its strength and cultural significance in military and social contexts [5][6]. - The Tang Dynasty is noted for its flourishing horse culture, with poetry and art celebrating the horse as a symbol of heroism and ambition, further embedding the horse's significance in Chinese literature [6]. Group 3: Mythological Associations - Mythological narratives in "Shan Hai Jing" link horses to divine qualities, associating them with auspicious symbols and legendary creatures, thus enhancing their cultural reverence [5][6]. - The connection between horses and dragons in ancient texts signifies the horse as a spiritual entity, embodying the harmony between heaven and earth [6].