The World in Chaos: When Heaven Fell

A tale of cosmic catastrophe, divine intervention, and world reconstruction - how Gong Gong's rage led to the tilting of heaven and Nüwa's heroic effort to save the world.

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🎙️ Visit our website for detailed show notes and visual references about this cosmic catastrophe


Key Mythological Concepts


Gong Gong (共工) [gong-gong]
Ancient water god with nine heads
Significance: Represents chaos and destruction in Chinese mythology


Mount Buzhou (不周山) [bu-zhou]
One of the eight pillars holding up the sky
Significance: Represents the cosmic axis in ancient Chinese geography


Wu Se (五色) [wu-se]
The Five Colors: Black, white, red, green, and yellow
Significance: Fundamental colors in Chinese philosophy, corresponding to the five elements
→ Learn more about the Five Elements in our episode on Eastern Philosophy




Exploring Cosmic Catastrophe


• How does this catastrophe myth compare to flood myths from other cultures?


• What might the five-colored stones represent symbolically?


• How do you interpret the role of rage and pride in Gong Gong's actions?


• Can you see any parallels between this myth and modern environmental concerns?

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