October 5, 2026 · 星期一
The Steadfast Cypress
柏树· cypress, cedar
Today’s episode with Jason & AmyThe cypress tree symbolizes resilience and continuity in Chinese culture.
秋分 divides autumn in half, bringing day and night once more into perfect balance. After it the nights grow longer and the chill deepens, while golden fields ripen toward the great autumn harvest.
Now celebrated as China's Farmers' Harvest Festival, and children traditionally try 竖蛋 (standing eggs on end), as at the spring equinox.
The Steadfast Cypress
柏树bǎi shù
The cypress tree, known as 柏 (bǎi) in Chinese, holds a special place in Chinese culture due to its symbolic associations. Often planted at temples and tombs, the cypress is celebrated for its qualities of steadfastness and resilience, which mirror the enduring spirit of both natural and spiritual realms. Its presence at sacred sites signifies a protective and stabilizing force, offering a sense of peace and continuity across generations[1].
In ancient Chinese philosophy, trees like the cypress are seen as bridges between heaven and earth. This connection is deeply embedded in cultural practices and artistic expressions. The cypress’s ability to thrive in harsh conditions has made it a symbol of strength and perseverance, celebrated in poetry and visual arts. Its evergreen nature represents eternal life, making it a fitting presence in places of remembrance and contemplation.
The use of cypress wood in traditional Chinese architecture further underscores its significance. Being durable and resistant to decay, cypress wood is used in constructing buildings meant to last, such as temples. This practical use aligns with its symbolic meaning, creating structures that not only physically stand the test of time but also spiritually inspire those who visit them[2].
Today, as we reflect on the qualities encapsulated by the cypress, we are reminded of the enduring values of resilience and strength. The cypress continues to be a powerful symbol, inspiring both reverence and artistic expression. As we celebrate the 25th day of the 8th lunar month, the presence of the 柏 tree in our cultural consciousness invites us to appreciate the timeless virtues it represents.
The cypress tree symbolizes resilience and continuity in Chinese culture.
今天是星期一。
Jīntiān shì xīngqīyī.
Today is Monday.
- [1] 《汉书》 The Book of Han
- [2] 《诗经》 The Book of Songs
Jason & Amy on 柏
Podcast: Dragon Daily: The Steadfast Cypress — and the word 柏
Jason & Amy on The Steadfast Cypress and 柏
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October 5, 2026
Today's cultural history highlights important developments in transportation and the world of design.
Kowloon–Canton Railway begins service 九廣鐵路
The Kowloon–Canton Railway commenced service, connecting Hong Kong and Guangzhou. This line improved communication and trade between southern China and the British colony of Hong Kong.
It played a crucial role in the development of modern transportation in southern China.
Read more
World Economic Forum / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0) sourcelicence Birth of Maya Lin, architect and sculptor
Maya Lin, an American architect and sculptor, was born. She is renowned for designing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., which is praised for its simplicity and emotional power.
Lin's work bridged art and architecture, influencing memorial design worldwide.
Read more
那是柏树。
Nà shì bǎi shù.
That is a cypress tree.
This sentence introduces the word for cypress tree.
柏树很高大。
Bǎi shù hěn gāo dà.
The cypress tree is very tall.
Describes a characteristic of the cypress tree.
寺庙前有柏树。
Sì miào qián yǒu bǎi shù.
There are cypress trees in front of the temple.
Indicates the common placement of cypress trees.
柏树象征着持久。
Bǎi shù xiàngzhēngzhe chíjiǔ.
The cypress tree symbolizes endurance.
Highlights the symbolic meaning of the cypress tree.
The use of 是 in sentences
是 + noun/adjective
The verb 是 is used to link a subject to its classification or description.
Use 是 to state facts or identify characteristics.
他是老师。
Tā shì lǎoshī.
He is a teacher.
今天是星期一。
Jīntiān shì xīngqīyī.
Today is Monday.
这是一本书。
Zhè shì yī běn shū.
This is a book.
What does 柏 mean?
How is 柏 pronounced?
How do you write "cypress" in Chinese?
Listen. What does the sentence mean?
庭院里有___树。(There is a ___ tree in the courtyard.)
柏树是常绿的。 — What does this sentence mean?
Which tree is often planted at Chinese temples for its symbolism?
Arrange into a correct sentence
What major transportation development occurred in 1911?
What is Maya Lin best known for?
Frequently asked questions about the word 柏
柏 translates to 'cypress' or 'cedar' in English, and it can also be a surname.
No, 柏 is more commonly found in written Chinese, particularly in literary contexts or as a surname.
柏 is pronounced as 'bǎi', with a falling-rising tone.
Chinese Learner’s Horoscope
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Today's Mandarin word: 柏 (bǎi) — cypress, cedar.
Learn it on Mandarin Temple's Dragon Daily 🐉