Among the traditional festivals in China, the Chung Yeung Festival (also known as the Ascending Festival) is a unique existence. It takes place on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month every year, and behind this special day, there is a wealth of meaning and folklore.
First of all, we need to understand the origin of Chung Yeung Festival. According to historical records, the Double Ninth Festival began during the Warring States Period, when people believed that nine was the extreme of the yang number, implying auspiciousness and longevity. Therefore, the ninth day of the ninth month of September, the day of Double Nine, is regarded as an auspicious day, and people will climb high to pray for blessings in order to live a long life.
In folklore, the story of the Chung Yeung Festival is even more colorful. One of the most famous is the story of "Qu Yuan Throwing into the River". Legend has it that after Qu Yuan committed suicide by throwing himself into the river on the fifth day of the fifth month of May, the people would row dragon boats and eat zongzi on the fifth day of the fifth month of May every year in order to commemorate him. And Qu Yuan's loyalty touched heaven and earth, and he became an immortal on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. Therefore, the people took the ninth day of the ninth month of September as the day of ascending to commemorate Qu Yuan.
In addition, Chung Yeung Festival is also a day of respect for the elderly. In folklore, the ninth day of the ninth month of September is the birthday of the Jade Emperor, who in turn is seen as a symbol of respect for the elderly. Therefore, on the day of Chung Yeung Festival, people will respect the elderly and send them blessings, which means longevity and health.
On the day of Chung Yeung Festival, climbing is an essential activity. Ascending not only allows you to exercise your body, but more importantly, it is believed that ascending can bring good luck and good luck. In addition, appreciating chrysanthemums and eating Chongyang cakes are also traditional customs of the Chung Yeung Festival.
Overall, Chung Yeung Festival is a festival rich in meanings and legends. It carries people's yearning for longevity, health and happiness, and also embodies the traditional virtues of respecting the elderly and respecting the virtuous of the Chinese nation. On this special day, let's inherit the customs of this festival and feel the charm of traditional culture!