Dragon (Long Xing)
The Chinese Dragon is no relation to the Western World's Fire-Breathing Dragon or any prehistoric dinosaur like beast. It is strictly a product of spiritual beliefs and is listed in Buddhist text as a supernatural animal that can appear or disappear at will and make itself any size. It is the king of all flying animals and represents the spiritual mind within the universe.
According to Buddhist writings, dragons live in oceans, since dragons live in large bodies of water; their association with the rest of the world is through water. If a dragon wishes to become visible, anyone can see him. If not, then only those who have reached a high level of enlightenment can view this special animal. The Chinese also believe dragons produce rain, and when they do dicide to make themselves visible, they're seen on clouds.
Chinese Dragons have snake like bodies covered with scales. They have lizard like arms and legs, which end in sharp claws. The head resembles a serpent. Since Shaolin Martial Arts are derived from Buddhist origins, the dragon was a perfect candidate to represent one of the five animals.