The Symbolism and Meaning of the Color Yellow

Ever noticed how a bright, sunny day can make us feel more energized and happy, while a dark, cloudy one may leave us feeling tired and a little grumpy. Just like the weather can affect the way we feel, the colors we use in our homes can impact us as well. The color yellow has been known to brighten and lighten any room in the home. In Feng Shui, colors are categorized into five elements: earth, fire, metal, wood and water. These five elements can bring harmony and balanced to the home, when used properly.

Yellow can be categorized into two elements, earth and fire. Light yellow is an earth element, while a stronger yellow is considered to be a fire element. In Feng Shui, the fire element (darker yellows) must balance with the other elements. Doing so will create perfect balance in our lives. For instance, too much fire can make us feel angry and impatient, while not having enough fire can actually make us seem cold and distant, The Fire and Wood Elements balances each other very well. Earth Tones (lighter yellows), on the other hand, gives us a sense of ambition and motivation. Earth and Metal Tones makes the perfect balance.

Yellow symbolize more than just a color, in many cultures. In China, the color is associated with good-luck. Royal Palaces were decorated with this lively color, as well as the robes and attires of the greatest Royal Emperors. In China, there is also a saying that goes, "Yellow generates Yin and Yang, in which the color itself symbolizes earth. In Ancient Egypt, 'khenet', meaning yellow in Egypt, symbolized the sun. They were both considered eternal and indestructible. Yellow is also highly respected in Buddhism. Monks wore yellow garments , as well as the Buddhist temples. In Hinduism, Lord Krishna and Ganesha wore yellow dresses because the color represented knowledge and wisdom. It also symbolized peace, competence and mental development.