To analyze the development of zang-xiang and doctrine of organ manifestations and the motivations. Methods: To analyze the connotation of the theory and its structure by finding out its construction progress. To be specific, to investigate zang-xiang theories under yin-yang theories in different ages, and thus to analyze its structure and connotation. Results: 1) In Han and Tang dynasties, the theory of Yin Yang and five elements was considered as the theory of essence qi. Zang(viscera) stores qi and Xiang manifest qi. Liver stores shao yang and the qi of wood. It corresponds to spring to nourish four extremities, tendons and eyes. It is also the house of soul and it correlates with gallbladder. Channel of foot reverting yin(LR) is the meridian of liver. 2)During Song, Ming and early Qing dynasties, Tai Ji Tu Shuo believed that the theory of Yin Yang and five elements is theory of the universe. Zang is the body and xiang is its shadow. Liver is the reverting yin viscus of wind and wood and it contains ministerial fire. Therefore, liver governs the flow of qi, and thus could affect kidney essence, defecation, body fluids, emotions and spleen and stomach. 3)From the end of Qing Dynasty, zang-xiang have been defined as the theory of Yin Yang and five elements, and zang is the nature and xiang is its manifestation. Liver corresponds to wood, stores blood, and governs qi flow. Liver is of yin nature but it functioned as a yang organ. These are the major theories of modern academics. Conclusion: The development of doctrine of organ manifestations regarding liver correlated with the theory of Yin Yang and five elements. It has different meanings because of various definitions of zang and xiang in different ages. This is profound to the research of doctrine of organ manifestations and TCM theory.