The fifth day of the Lunar New Year, also known as "Breaking Five", is an important day in traditional Chinese New Year customs. On this day, various rituals and activities are held to pray for peace and good fortune in the new year.
First of all, about the custom of "breaking five". According to historical records, as early as the Qin Dynasty, people held the "Breaking Five" ceremony on the fifth day of the first lunar month to expel evil spirits and get rid of plagues. This custom has been passed down to this day and has become an indispensable part of the Spring Festival.
Secondly, about the custom of "sending the poor". On the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, people hold a send-off ceremony to pray for wealth and good luck in the new year. This custom originated in the Tang Dynasty, when people believed that poverty was a bad omen, so a ceremony was held on the fifth day of the first lunar month to expel poverty and bad luck. Nowadays, the ceremony of sending off the poor has become an important custom on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, which represents people's yearning for a better life.
In addition, on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, there is also the custom of "welcoming the God of Wealth". It is believed that the God of Wealth will descend on this day to bring wealth and good fortune to people. Therefore, people would place offerings and set off firecrackers in their homes to welcome the arrival of the God of Wealth. This custom not only reflects people's desire for wealth, but also reflects people's reverence and belief in the gods.
It is worth mentioning that on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, there is also the custom of "eating dumplings". Dumplings symbolize reunion and happiness. People will get together on this day to make dumplings, eat dumplings, and have a happy time together. This custom not only enhances the relationship between relatives, but also adds a strong atmosphere of life to the Spring Festival.
In short, the customs of the fifth day of the Lunar New Year are rich and colorful, with both historical inheritance and changes of the times. These customs not only convey people's best wishes for the new year, but also reflect the breadth and profundity of traditional Chinese culture. On the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, let us feel the charm of customs, inherit the spirit of culture, and pray for blessings and auspiciousness in the new year.