The third day of the first lunar month is an important day in Chinese folk traditional culture, which is called the day of "sending poor ghosts". On this day, people follow certain customs and traditions to send away poor ghosts through certain deeds and pray for good fortune and good luck in the new year. Although these customs may seem simple, they contain rich cultural connotations and far-reaching meanings.
1. The origin and meaning of sending poor ghosts
The custom of "sending poor ghosts" originated in ancient China and was a kind of exorcism and prayer for poverty and misfortune. In ancient societies, poverty and hardship were common dilemmas, so people hoped to get rid of poverty and pursue happiness through some special rituals and activities. And "sending off poor ghosts" is such a ritual, by sending away poor ghosts, praying for good fortune and a happy life in the new year.
2. Do three things: welcome good luck, beckon the god of wealth, and send poor ghosts
On the third day of the first lunar month, people will carry out some specific activities, which have beautiful meanings, and place people's expectations and blessings for the new year. Among them, "doing three things" is the highlight of the day, including welcoming good luck, beckoning the god of fortune and sending off poor ghosts.
1.Welcome good luck: On this day, people will carry out some activities that symbolize good luck, such as sticking Spring Festival couplets and setting off firecrackers. These events not only create a festive atmosphere, but also symbolize good luck and good luck in the new year.
2.Fortune God: People will light incense in front of their homes and pray for the blessings of the God of Wealth. At the same time, merchants will also worship the God of Wealth on this day, hoping to attract more wealth. These customs express people's desire for wealth and the pursuit of a better life.
3.Sending the Poor Ghosts: Sending the poor ghosts is the core activity of the day. People will send away poor ghosts in some special ways, such as sweeping away garbage, cleaning up dilapidated items, etc., to show that they are sending away poor and unlucky things. In addition, people will eat a hearty meal, which symbolizes abundance and health in the new year.
3. Don't do three things: don't go out, don't collect debts, and don't eat porridge
On the third day of the first lunar month, there are some things that people need to avoid and these things are seen as signs of bad luck. Specifically, the "three things to be avoided" include the following aspects:
1.Don't go out: On this day, people stay home and avoid going out. Because people think that going out will lead to poor ghosts, which will bring bad luck. So this day is also known as "no going out" or "closing day".
2.Don't collect debts: This day is also not a good day to collect debts. It is believed that collecting debts on this day will anger the god of wealth and affect the fortune of the year. Therefore, on this day, people try to avoid debt-related matters in the hope of praying for good fortune in the new year.
3.Avoid eating porridge: In some parts of China, it is forbidden to eat porridge on the third day of the first lunar month. Because the character "thin" has the meaning of "thin" in Chinese, and "thin" and "poor" are pronounced similarly in dialects. Therefore, eating porridge will be seen as a sign of bad luck and will be seen as inviting poverty. Therefore, on this day, people will choose to eat rice or dry food to avoid bad omen.
Fourth, don't lose the old traditions: respect the culture and inherit the customs
Although modern society is changing rapidly, and many traditional customs and concepts are gradually forgotten or ignored among the younger generation, the older generation still clings to these old traditions. They see these customs as not only a sign of respect for their ancestors, but also a good wish for a future life. Therefore, respecting and passing on these old traditions is of great importance in order to maintain the diversity and richness of culture.
In today's society, many traditional cultural practices are at risk of being forgotten and marginalized. However, it is these traditional customs and rituals that form the cornerstone of the national culture. They not only represent the historical and cultural heritage of a nation, but also carry the beliefs and values of a nation. Therefore, we should cherish and protect these traditional cultural practices and let them continue to be passed on and developed in the new era.
To sum up, "don't forget to send poor ghosts on the third day of the Lunar New Year" is not only a reminder of customs, but also an appeal for respect and inheritance of traditional culture. By understanding and following these traditions, we can not only pray for good luck and wealth in the New Year, but also experience the unique charm and depth of culture. Let us work together to protect these precious cultural heritages and make them shine more brightly in the new era!