An In-depth Interpretation of Lixia in the Twenty-Four Solar Terms: Philosophical, Philological, and Astronomical Perspectives
This article provides an in-depth analysis of Lixia (the Beginning of Summer) through the lenses of pre-Qin Confucian and Daoist philosophy, etymological roots, and astronomical observation, elucidating its significance as the critical juncture where the cosmic momentum shifts from "birth" to "growth." By examining the evolution of the character "xia" (夏) and the movement of the star Antares, the study reveals the profound wisdom behind the ancient mandate of "respectfully bestowing the seasons" and the harmonious worldview of unity between humanity and the cosmos.
I. Why is "Xia" (Summer) "Xia"$4
Before delving into the specific discussions of Lixia, we must contemplate the character "Xia" itself. Why use "Xia" to name the most intense and flourishing season of the year$5 What is the original meaning of this character$6
The oracle bone script forms of "Xia" have long been debated, but one widely accepted interpretation suggests it depicts a human figure with head, arms, torso, and legs—the image of an "adult" (daren). This is closely related to the character "Da" (大, Great). Indeed, in pre-Qin literature, "Xia" and "Da" are often used interchangeably. Although the phrase "The Middle Kingdom possesses the greatness of ritual, hence it is called Xia; it possesses the beauty of attire, hence it is called Hua" relates to later texts, the concept that "Xia" and "Greatness" are linked is rooted in antiquity.
Why should "Greatness" be associated with the name of a season$7 Here lies a simple yet profound observation of our ancestors: Summer is the season when all things become "great." Trees that sprouted in spring reach full foliage and provide shade by summer; seeds sown in spring begin to grow and thicken by summer. "Xia" as "Greatness" is a direct naming of this vigorous power of growth.
The Erya (an ancient dictionary) states: "Summer is Zhu-Ming (Red Radiance)" (夏为朱明). Zhu means red; Ming means light. Summer is the season of crimson and brilliance. This aligns perfectly with the Five Phases (Wuxing) theory, which associates summer with fire and the color red. Yet, "Red Radiance" conveys more than just color; it describes a cosmic energy state—between Heaven and Earth, yang energy is full, brightness is at its peak, and all things grow exuberantly within this radiance, reaching the state of "Greatness."
This leads to a deeper question: Why did our ancestors view "Greatness" as a state worthy of being specially named$8