Forget what you know about lucky sevens or unlucky thirteens—numbers hold entirely different meanings in Chinese culture, and six is one of the most interesting of all. Whether you’ve noticed sixes in Chinese shop names, car license plates, or celebratory decorations, there’s a fascinating reason behind it. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, symbolism, and everyday uses of the number 6 in China. Curious why six is so popular? Read on to discover its unique charm!
The Meaning of 6 in Chinese Culture
The number 6 might look like just another digit on the calendar, but in Chinese culture, it carries deep significance. Fascinatingly, numbers in China often hold symbolic meaning far beyond their mathematical value, influencing personal choices, business decisions, and even social interactions. Among these, 6 stands out as a positive omen, representing much more than meets the eye. Let’s explore how and why the number 6 is so cherished in Chinese culture.
The Origin and History of 6 in Chinese Culture
Homophones and the Power of Sound
Chinese culture places enormous importance on language, especially homophones—words that sound alike but have different meanings. The number 6 is pronounced “liù” (六), which sounds similar to the word “liú” (流), meaning “to flow” or “smooth.” This phonetic resemblance led to 6 being associated with smooth progress, ease, and good fortune.
Ancient Roots
Over centuries, as language and customs evolved, the auspicious nature of 6 became embedded in folklore, proverbs, and even philosophical works. Ancient Chinese wisdom often linked natural harmony and cosmic balance with specific numbers, and 6 found its niche as a symbol of ongoing, untroubled flow—whether in luck, business, or life itself.
Cultural Meaning and Symbolism of 6
Smoothness and Success
Most prominently, 6 stands for things running smoothly, which is captured beautifully in the idiom “六六大顺” (liù liù dà shùn). Literally translated as “six-six, everything smooth,” this expression is used to wish someone an easy path ahead, whether they’re starting a new job, taking an exam, or embarking on a journey.
Harmony and Order
In traditional Chinese cosmology, even numbers are associated with “yin” energy—calm, receptive, and harmonious. As an even number, 6 implies balance and a lack of obstacles, making it a favorite in all kinds of important decision-making processes.
Variations in Symbolism
Sometimes, you’ll see “666,” repeated for emphasis, symbolizing “everything goes extremely well.” On Chinese social media and in pop culture, 6 and its multiples have become shorthand for good luck and smooth sailing.
6 in Daily Life, Traditions, and Celebrations
Personal Choices
Many Chinese people actively seek out the number 6 for its blessings. It’s a common choice in:
- Phone numbers and license plates: People pay more for these valued combinations.
- Business openings: Grand openings often use banners or gifts with sixes to ensure prosperity.
- Wedding dates or special occasions: Dates featuring the number 6 are believed to set a smooth, happy tone.
Festivals and Customary Greetings
During holidays or festive moments, you might hear people gift “6” themed red envelopes, or wish friends “liù liù dà shùn,” expressing the hope that the year, month, or event ahead will be free from trouble or setbacks.
Age Milestones
The number 60 (a multiple of 6) is exceptionally significant in Chinese birthday traditions. The 60th birthday is celebrated as a milestone marking one full cycle of the Chinese lunar calendar, reflecting harmony and successful passage through life’s challenges.
6 in Philosophy, Religion, and Feng Shui
Feng Shui
In Feng Shui, numbers have energetic qualities. Even numbers like 6 are considered “yin,” representing receptivity and smooth energy. It’s seen as an auspicious choice for home addresses, floor levels, and phone numbers.
Buddhism and Taoism
Within Buddhism and Taoism, 6 sometimes represents completeness and compassion. For example, Buddhism references “six perfections” (paramitas) that cultivate wisdom and kindness.
The Book of Changes (I Ching)
In the ancient text, the I Ching, lines are divided into yin (broken) and yang (unbroken), and calculations involving 6 influence the reading of hexagrams. This, again, ties 6 to the realm of cosmic flow and harmonious change.
The Modern Face of 6: Popular Culture and Internet Slang
From Tradition to Digital Age
In recent years, 6 has gained a new life as internet slang. Online, the number is often used to praise someone for doing something skillfully or “cool.” Typing “666” in a chat is the digital equivalent of saying “awesome” or “well done!”
Why Is 6 Used Online?
This trend arose because “liù” sounds like the English word “slick” or “smooth.” As young Chinese netizens embraced the shortcut, it quickly became part of popular online communication—kind of like giving a thumbs-up emoji.
Other Modern Uses
- Marketing: Businesses use 6 in advertising slogans or discounts to imply smooth service or easy transactions.
- Music and Entertainment: The number sometimes appears in song titles and pop culture references, emphasizing positivity and success.
Interesting Facts, Myths, and Anecdotes
- Competition with 8: While 8 (bā) is considered the “king” of lucky numbers due to its pronunciation similar to “wealth,” 6 comes in a strong second, especially for wishes of smoothness.
- Red Envelopes: It’s common to give monetary gifts in amounts that include 6, like 66 or 666 yuan, signifying luck for the recipient.
- Popular Idioms: Besides “liù liù dà shùn,” some other expressions using 6 reinforce its connotation of everything going according to plan.
- Not Always the Top Pick: In some cases, 6 is used in combination with other lucky numbers (8, 9) to multiply the positive effects.
6 and Its Variations: Combinations and Their Meanings
Doubling and Repetition
Repeating numbers strengthens their symbolism in Chinese culture. “666” is widely recognized as a superlative for smoothness and success—a kind of triple good luck.
Common Phrases
Combining 6 with other numbers (like 168, which sounds like “prosper all the way”) creates lucky combinations sought after in daily life, marketing, and even on addresses.
Lucky Number Combinations
- 168 (yī liù bā): Means “all the way to prosperity”
- 666: “Everything will go extra smoothly”
6 in Art, Music, and Literature
In traditional woodcuts, paintings, and poetry, numbers often convey symbolic wishes. Sixfold repetitions or arrangements might be included to communicate a hidden hope for a harmonious, untroubled life. In literature, poetic usage of six or sixty often emphasizes completeness and fortunate cycles.
Conclusion
The number 6 plays an integral, cherished role in Chinese culture. Thanks to its positive associations with smoothness, harmony, and the effortless flow of luck, it appears throughout daily life, major celebrations, and even in the fast-paced world of online interactions. Whether you’re picking a wedding date, choosing a phone number, or simply wishing a friend well, the humble six is a powerful symbol of all things auspicious and easy.
As you explore Chinese culture, keep an eye out for this lucky number—it might just smooth the way for your own journey!
FAQ
1. Why is the number 6 considered lucky in China?
The number 6 is pronounced “liù,” which sounds like “liú,” meaning “flow” or “smooth” in Chinese. This homophone led to 6 being seen as a symbol of things going smoothly and effortlessly, making it a lucky number for various aspects of life.
2. What is the significance of the phrase “六六大顺” (liù liù dà shùn)?
This idiom means “six-six, everything goes smoothly.” It’s a common congratulatory expression wishing someone a future without obstacles and is used in both formal blessings and casual greetings.
3. How is the number 6 used in daily life and business?
People often choose phone numbers, license plates, and addresses with the number 6 to attract good fortune. Businesses may open on dates containing 6 or use the number in promotions to appeal to customers seeking good luck.
4. Is 6 more important than other lucky numbers like 8 or 9?
While 6 is very auspicious, 8 (pronounced “bā,” similar to “wealth”) is often considered the luckiest number, especially for financial matters. However, 6 is highly valued for its “smooth” connotation, especially when combined with other lucky numbers.
5. What does “666” mean in Chinese pop culture or online?
“666” is internet slang for “awesome,” “cool,” or “nicely done.” It’s widely used by young people online to praise someone or celebrate achievement, drawing on the positive, flowing implication of the number 6.
6. Are there any special traditions involving the number 6 in Chinese festivals?
During celebrations or milestone birthdays (like the 60th), gifts featuring sixes are given to wish smoothness and good health. Red envelopes containing 6, 66, or 666 yuan are also popular for wishing continuous luck.
7. How is 6 viewed in Chinese philosophy and religion?
6 represents harmony, yin energy, and the smooth flow of life in Chinese philosophy, including Feng Shui. In Buddhism, it sometimes signifies completeness (six perfections), and in Taoism, it reflects balanced, harmonious cycles.
8. Are there areas or dialects where 6 is not considered lucky?
Generally, the number 6 enjoys a positive reputation across all Chinese regions and dialects. Unlike the number 4, which is avoided in certain contexts, 6 consistently holds auspicious meaning nationwide.
9. How do people use the number 6 in art and literature?
Six appears in traditional art and poetry to symbolize completion, luck, and untroubled progress. Literary works and artworks may incorporate it subtly to convey hidden wishes for harmony and success.
10. Can international visitors or expats benefit from using the number 6 in China?
Absolutely! Choosing hotel rooms, phone numbers, or scheduling important events with the number 6 can be seen as a gesture of cultural understanding—and might even bring some symbolic good luck to your plans.
