Black Tortoise(玄武):
In Chinese, it is pronounced as: xuán wǔ，Written as:

The Black Tortoise is one of the significant symbols in ancient Chinese mythology, astronomy, and culture, and it is one of the Four Symbols. It forms the traditional quartet with the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, and Vermilion Bird. The Black Tortoise is typically depicted as a tortoise entwined with a snake. The tortoise symbolizes longevity and stability, while the snake represents flexibility and change. Together, they embody eternity and immortality.
In the Five Elements, the Black Tortoise corresponds to the water element, represents the north, and is associated with winter. It symbolizes cold, tranquility, and resilience. In Chinese culture, the Black Tortoise is seen as a Divine Beast that guards against and suppresses evil, often used to symbolize courage, wisdom, and perseverance.
In the ancient Chinese astronomical system, the Black Tortoise represents the seven constellations of the north, namely the Dipper, Ox, Girl, Emptiness, Rooftop, Room, and Wall. These constellations are collectively referred to as the Northern Black Tortoise or the Northern Palace. Like the other Four Symbols, the constellations associated with the Black Tortoise were used to guide agriculture, devise calendars, and conduct divination.
The image of the Black Tortoise frequently appears in the architectural decorations of tombs, palaces, and temples, especially in Feng Shui, where it is considered a vital symbol for protecting and stabilizing homes, often placed at the rear of a structure to provide protection. The imagery and symbolism of the Black Tortoise are common in literary works, representing perseverance and wisdom. In the arts, the Black Tortoise is widely used in sculpture, painting, and other fields.
In modern popular culture, the image of the Black Tortoise appears in various films, literary works, and games, continuing to play its symbolic role. As a cultural symbol, the Black Tortoise is still widely used to represent protection, wisdom, and longevity.
In some legends, the Black Tortoise is seen as a symbol of longevity due to its tortoise and snake form, which signifies the continuation of life and an undying spirit. The Black Tortoise is often considered a guardian Divine Beast, particularly for protecting homes and buildings from evil forces.