Giving red eggs to babies is one of the traditional Chinese festive Xi customs, which has strong cultural connotations. This Xi has a long history of incorporating good wishes for life, happiness and good fortune, while also reflecting the importance that Chinese culture places on the auspicious meaning of red and eggs.
First of all, giving a baby a red egg reflects the blessing and celebration of a new life. The birth of a baby is seen as a moment of happiness and joy for a family, and giving red eggs has become one of the traditional ways to express this joy.
The red egg symbolizes the warmth of the sun and the vitality of life, implying the vigorous growth of new life. In addition, red has a symbolic meaning of auspicious celebration in Chinese culture, as it is seen as a representative color of happiness, festivity, and good luck. Therefore, giving red eggs as a gift to a newborn is both a blessing for the baby and a good wish for the new family.
Secondly, the choice of red eggs is closely related to the meaning of eggs. In traditional Chinese culture, eggs are endowed with rich symbolic meanings. First of all, the egg has a perfect shape, which symbolizes reunion, wholeness, and happiness.
This is in line with the traditional Chinese values of family harmony and happiness. Secondly, eggs give birth to life, symbolizing the meaning of fertility and reproduction, so giving eggs also expresses the expectation and wish for new life.
There is also a certain etiquette in the way red eggs are made and gifted. Usually, red eggs are given at important occasions such as the full moon, seven or 100 days after birth.
In terms of preparation, eggs are generally boiled first and then dyed red with red pigment or herbs to create a brilliant red appearance.
At the same time, some places will also carve some auspicious patterns on the surface of red eggs, such as the word "Fu", longevity peach, etc., to add a festive atmosphere. When giving gifts, family members usually put red eggs in red paper or red silk cloth to express good wishes for a new life.
In modern society, although people's lifestyles and concepts have changed, the traditional Xi of giving red eggs to babies is still preserved and circulated. This tradition is still warmly welcomed, both in the city and in the countryside. Especially in some families that value traditional culture, this custom is regarded as an important way to continue family traditions and convey family affection.
Behind this Xi is a reflection of Chinese culture's deep concern for families and new lives. It is not just a superficial etiquette, but also a sincere expression of family affection and family happiness.
In this ceremony, the blessings of relatives and friends are passed on through red eggs, which shortens the distance between family members and brings more warmth and love to the new life.
In general, giving red eggs to babies is a ritualistic Xi in traditional Chinese culture, which not only expresses the blessing of new life, but also inherits the cherishing of family and affection. In modern society, this traditional Xi still plays a special role in people's lives, bringing joy and wishes to families.