Definition
木鱼 (mù yú) is a wooden percussion instrument shaped like a fish, used in Buddhist temples and monasteries during chanting and rituals. Monks strike it rhythmically to keep time during sutra recitation. The 'fish' shape symbolizes wakefulness — fish never close their eyes, so the instrument reminds practitioners to stay alert and focused. You'll also see smaller wooden fish used as folk percussion in some Chinese music ensembles.
n
(Buddhist percussion instrument) wooden fish — a hollowfish-shaped block struck with a mallet during chanting
Examples
- 木鱼，。Héshang yìbiān qiāo mù yú, yìbiān niàn jīng.The monk chanted sutras while striking the wooden fish.
- 木鱼。Sìmiào lǐ chuánlái qīngcuì de mù yú shēng.The crisp sound of the wooden fish came from the temple.
- 木鱼。Tā mǎi le yí gè xiǎo mù yú zuò jìniànpǐn.He bought a small wooden fish as a souvenir.
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