The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a traditional Chinese holiday with a rich history and folklore. Here's an English summary of its origins and legends:
**Origins of Qingming Festival:**
The Qingming Festival has its roots in ancient China, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). It is believed to have originated from a combination of several practices, including the "Pure Brightness" festival from the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC) and the "Sacrificial Rites" to honor ancestors.
The name "Qingming" translates to "Pure Brightness" in English, symbolizing the clarity of the sky and the brightness of the day. It marks the beginning of spring and is a time when the weather becomes warm and the plants begin to grow.
**Legends and Folklore:**
There are several legends associated with the Qingming Festival:
1. **Jing Tian Wang's Sacrifice (介子推的故事):** One of the most famous legends is about the nobleman Jie Zitui. During the Spring and Autumn period, Jie Zitui sacrificed himself to save his master, Duke of Jin. According to the story, when Jie Zitui was dying, he asked his master to burn his body as a sacrifice. The master was so grateful that he ordered people to mourn Jie Zitui and avoid fire during the spring. This became the custom of not using fire during the Qingming Festival.
2. **Poem by Du Fu (杜甫的诗):** Another story revolves around the famous poet Du Fu. During the Tang Dynasty, Du Fu wrote a poem mourning the deaths of his friends and relatives during the An Lushan Rebellion. His poem, "Qingming Festival," expressed his sorrow and love for his departed friends, which has been associated with the festival.
3. **Sacrifice to Ancestors (祭祖):** The Qingming Festival is also a time to honor ancestors and departed loved ones. Families visit graves to pay their respects, clean tombstones, offer food, burn incense, and sometimes set off fireworks or burn paper offerings.
**Modern Practices:**
Today, the Qingming Festival is still widely celebrated in China and among Chinese communities worldwide. People engage in activities such as tomb sweeping, offering food and drinks to ancestors, and enjoying outdoor activities like picnics. It is a time for reflection, family gatherings, and the appreciation of nature's renewal.
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