When looking at the physical world circular objects are of instable and active just like the round sun and moon. On the contrary square objects possess characteristics of stability and inactiveness like the earth. Generally, the activeness represents Yang and inactiveness represents Yin, therefore, the round heaven (天圆Tian Yuan) is a symbol of Yang, while the square earth (地方Di Fang) is a sign of Yin.
The philosophy of round heaven and square earth was used in the traditional Chinese architecture as well. The Temple of Heaven and the Temple of Earth were built in accordance with this principle.
Covered with blue glazed tiles, the three-storied Hall of Prayer for Good Harvest in the Temple of Heaven is 38m high with each storey narrowing upwards, indicating it is connecting with the heavens. It was said that the emperor is the son of the heaven and only the emperor had the power to talk to heaven, thus, the building was built for the emperor to connect with and worship heaven.
The Temple of Heaven is round and there are an odd number of balustrades it built around it, seen as a positive number, symbolizing heaven or Yang. The Temple of Earth is square, having four sides, each with eight steps, these even numbers or negative numbers represent the Earth or Yin.
The Temple of the Sun and the Temple of Moon were also built according to this principle.
This philosophy was expressed in civilian buildings as well, especially in Siheyuans or traditional houses in Beijing.
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