The beginning of spring, as the first of the 24 solar terms, has been highly valued since ancient times. On this day, the earth rejuvenates and everything recovers, heralding the beginning of a new cycle of life. The origin of Lichun is deeply rooted in the deep soil of Chinese culture, which carries the awe of the ancients for nature and their love for life.
The origin of the beginning of spring can be traced back to the ancient agricultural era. At that time, it was observed that after the winter solstice every year, the days gradually became longer, the temperature gradually increased, and nature began to enter a new growth cycle. Therefore, they chose the forty-fifth day after the winter solstice, that is, when the sun reached 315 degrees of yellow longitude, as the beginning of the year, and named it "Lichun". This is the origin of the beginning of spring.
The exquisiteness of the beginning of spring reflects the rich connotation of Chinese culture. In ancient times, the beginning of spring was an important festival called "Spring Festival", which was even more important than the New Year. On this day, the emperor will lead the civil and military officials to hold a grand sacrificial ceremony to pray for a bumper harvest and peace for the country and the people in the new year. There are also many folk customs, such as "biting spring", "beating spring", stepping on spring, etc., to celebrate.
Biting spring is the custom of eating spring cakes, spring rolls, radishes and other foods on the beginning of spring, implying the arrival of the new year. In spring, it is to whip the clay "spring cow" to show condolences, hoping that the new year will have a bumper harvest of grains and six animals will be prosperous. In spring, people have stepped out of their homes to enjoy the beauty of spring and feel the vitality and vitality of nature.
Today, although some of the customs of the beginning of spring have gradually disappeared or been forgotten, its far-reaching influence still leaves a deep imprint on Chinese culture. Lichun is not only a solar term, but also a cultural symbol, representing the Chinese's respect for life, awe of nature and love for life. On this day, let us feel the breath of spring and welcome the beginning of a new cycle of life.