MAH JONGG’S STRUCTURE
Mah Jongg has five suits: Bamboo, Circles, Wan (or Character), the Honors (which consist of the four directions and the three dragons) and the Eight Guardians (which consist of the four seasons and the four occupations). There are four copies each of the Circles, Bamboo, Wan, and Honors Cards, and only one set of the Eight Guardians cards in the standard Mah Jongg set. We’ll start with the meaning of the …
Bamboo
The bamboo suit is the first suit in the Mah Jongg set. Because bamboo is a sturdy material and used for so many things in daily life, it is traditionally the suit of health, people, family relationships, and inner happiness. The bamboo cards are associated with letters.
1 Bamboo (Peacock)-Success is achieved, possibly because the subject was willing to change direction, but the subject is cautioned not to let success go to their head.
2 Bamboo (Duck)-An enduring partnership; devotion and fidelity.
3 Bamboo (Toad)-Matters of sickness and medicine are indicated here; also recovery from sickness. The inquirer is warned not to over-extend themselves or be overly-ambitious at this time.
4 Bamboo (Carp)-An emotional state of peace and contentment lead to a long life. This symbol indicates longevity, either of a person or an ideal.
5 Bamboo (Lotus)-A new life, a new child, a new vision, or a spiritual awakening can be indicated by this symbol. There may be a need to start anew after a period of trouble.
6 Bamboo (Water)-travel, especially short journeys and correspondence, such as letters, e-mails, text messages, reports, etc.
7 Bamboo (Tortoise)-Success comes through gradual progress and the learning process. A length of time is needed for success to grow. This symbol may also indicate there are issues of illegitimacy.
8 Bamboo (Fungus)-A surprise or unexpected event. This symbol may indicate issues of virtue will receive focus.
9 Bamboo (Willow)-A need to employ diplomacy and tact right now, no matter how provoked one is feeling. Strength is found in being resilient and flexible.
The reason for the reverse direction is because it is the celestial compass. This is always reversed. I’ve had the Derek Walters deck for over a decade so it is nice to read someone else is using them to divine. Hope you are continuing to enjoy!