QINLING Meaning and
Definition
-
Qinling is a term that refers to a mountain range located in central China, generally considered to be a part of the larger Qin Mountains. The term "Qinling" is derived from the Chinese characters "qin," which means "initial" or "beginning," and "ling," which translates to "mountain range" or "ridge." As such, the name can be interpreted as the "beginning of the mountain range."
The Qinling mountain range stretches across several provinces, including Shaanxi, Henan, and Shanxi, and has historically served as a natural boundary between northern and southern China. Spanning a length of approximate 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), it is known for its diverse array of flora and fauna, making it an important ecological region and a significant part of China's biodiversity hotspot.
Notably, the Qinling mountains are also home to the giant panda, an endangered species globally recognized for its significance in conservation efforts. The region's unique geographical features, including its steep slopes and dense forests, make it an ideal habitat for these gentle mammals. Consequently, the Qinling mountains have become an important region for panda research and conservation initiatives.
In addition to its environmental importance, the Qinling mountains also possess historical significance. They have served as a natural barrier throughout Chinese history, affecting trade routes and influencing cultural exchange between northern and southern China. The region's picturesque landscapes and natural beauty have also made it a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.
Etymology of QINLING
The word "qinling" has its roots in Chinese. The term is derived from two Chinese characters: "qin" (秦) and "ling" (岭).
The first character, "qin" (秦), refers to the ancient Chinese state of Qin, which existed during the Zhou Dynasty and became renowned for its military strength. The Qin Dynasty, established in 221 BCE, marked the unification of China under the rule of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who is famous for constructing the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army.
The second character, "ling" (岭), means "mountain range" or "ridge" in Chinese. Therefore, "qinling" can be translated as the "Qin Mountains" or "Qinling Mountains".
The term generally refers to a major east-west mountain range in central China, known as the Qinling Mountains.
