In traditional Chinese folklore, the sixteenth day of the first lunar month is a special day, known as the day of "sending the plague god". On this day, a series of rituals and activities are performed to pray for peace, health, and success for the family in the new year. This article will detail the traditional custom of "sending the plague god" on the 16th day of the first lunar month, why you throw 2 things and eat 2 things on this day, and emphasize the importance of respecting traditions and praying for the blessings of your family.
1. The origin and significance of "sending the plague god" on the sixteenth day of the first lunar month
Sending the plague god is a ritual of Chinese folk belief, which originated from the ancient people's fear of plague and belief in the gods. In ancient times, people often faced the threat of plague due to poor medical conditions. In order to drive away the plague and pray for peace, the people have the custom of sending the plague god. The 16th day of the first lunar month was chosen as the day to send off the plague god because during the Spring Festival, every household will carry out a big cleaning, which means to sweep away all filth and ominousness. On the sixteenth day of the first lunar month after the Spring Festival, people believe that the plague god has left, and it is most appropriate to send the plague god at this time.
Second, the custom of throwing 2 things
In the ritual of sending the plague god, throwing two things is one of the important links. On this day, people will dump their garbage at the intersection and burn it with fire to send off the plague god. At the same time, people will also throw away some old things, such as torn clothes, broken shoes, etc., which means to throw away the troubles and troubles of the past and welcome the good luck of the new year. In addition, some places will also throw away some items that symbolize bad luck, such as mirrors, knives and scissors, etc., to ward off bad luck.
3. The custom of eating 2 things
In addition to throwing 2 things, eating 2 things is also one of the important customs of "sending the plague god" on the 16th day of the first month. People eat rice cakes and noodles on this day. Rice cakes symbolize high rise and affluent life every year; Noodles imply longevity and longevity. In some places, people also eat dumplings, lantern festivals and other foods, which symbolize reunion and happiness. In addition, the custom of eating two kinds of food is also related to folk beliefs. It is believed that by eating specific foods, one can pray for the blessings and protection of the gods, and that the family will be safe and smooth.
4. Respect traditions and pray for the well-being of your family
The custom of "sending the plague god" on the sixteenth day of the first lunar month is an important part of traditional Chinese culture. On this day, people pray for a safe, healthy and smooth new year through various ceremonies and activities, as well as respect and inheritance of the cultural traditions passed down from their ancestors. Therefore, we should actively participate in various activities on this day, respecting traditional customs. At the same time, we should also pray for the blessings of our families and wish them peace, health and happiness.
In modern society, with the progress of science and technology and the development of society, many traditional cultural customs have gradually been forgotten. However, it is the responsibility and obligation of each of us to respect traditional culture and inherit the national spirit. On the 16th day of the first lunar month, we should not only actively participate in various activities, but also practice these traditional values and cultural spirits in our daily lives. Only in this way can we allow traditional culture to be passed on and carried forward in our generation.
In addition, we should also look at traditional culture with a scientific attitude. Although many traditional customs have a certain superstitious color, the auspicious meaning contained in them and people's yearning for a better life are worthy of respect and inheritance. While inheriting the traditional culture, we should discard the dross and let the traditional culture adapt and integrate with modern society.
In short, the sixteenth day of the first lunar month is an important festival in traditional Chinese culture. By understanding the origin, customs and significance of this festival, we can better understand and inherit the excellent traditional Chinese culture. On this day, let's get involved in all activities.