Chinese New Year's Eve, a festival full of reunion and warmth, is also a time for us to express our thoughts to our deceased loved ones. However, worshipping deceased relatives is not simply a sacrifice, but has a series of taboos and exquisiteness. Let's learn about these traditions and practices to pay more respects to our loved ones in a more appropriate way.
First of all, the choice of time for worship is very important. Worship on Chinese New Year's Eve should be carried out as early as possible to avoid getting close to midnight. Because in the traditional concept, the zero o'clock on Chinese New Year's Eve is the beginning of a new year and the time when the dead return home. At this time, the living should wait at home to show respect and welcome the deceased.
Secondly, the items of worship are also particular. Incense, candles, wine, fruits, etc. should usually be prepared. Among them, incense and candles are essential as they symbolize the worship of the gods and illuminate the way home for the souls of the dead. Wine and fruit represent filial piety and nostalgia. At the same time, it is not advisable to worship foods such as meat, as this is seen as disrespectful to the souls of the dead.
Attention should also be paid to the procedures of worship. Before worshipping, you should pray to the gods and inform yourself of the purpose and intention of the worship. When worshipping, you should first offer incense and candles to the ancestral tablet or cemetery, and then perform three prostrations. Then, a toast and fruit are offered. During the whole process, the attitude should be reverent and respectful, not frivolous and casual.
In addition, there are some taboos to be aware of during the worship process. For example, it is forbidden to laugh and play during worship, as this would be considered disrespectful to the souls of the dead. It is also not allowed to take photos at the place of worship, as this will capture some ominous atmosphere. At the same time, pregnant women and people who are physically weak should refrain from participating in worship activities to avoid affecting their health or causing inconvenience to the souls of the deceased.
In short, paying homage to deceased relatives is one on Chinese New Year's Eve.
It is a traditional custom to express filial piety and longing. Understanding these taboos and preoccupations helps us pay more proper tribute to our deceased loved ones, while also allowing us to respect and value every moment in our lives more appropriately. At this special moment, let us remember our deceased loved ones with the most sincere heart, may they rest in peace in another world, and may our lives be full of sunshine and hope.