The origin of the Chinese New Year, also known as "Xiao Yan," in English, can be traced back to ancient Chinese traditions and agricultural practices.
The term "Xiao Yan" refers to the festival before the lunar New Year, traditionally celebrated on the 23rd or 24th day of the twelfth lunar month. The origin of this festival is believed to be associated with the ancient Chinese practice of observing the transition between seasons and the change of the moon's phases.
According to legends, people in ancient China believed that gods and spirits would return to their heavenly abodes after New Year celebrations. To welcome the new year and ensure a good harvest, people performed various rituals and cleaned their homes thoroughly to honor the gods and spirits.
Here are a few key aspects of the origin and significance of "Xiao Yan":
1. The "Mandarin Ducks and the Mother Duck" Story: One legend tells of a mother duck and her young ducks. When it was time for the mother duck to return to her heavenly home, her young ducks pleaded with her not to leave them. The gods, moved by their love, allowed the mother duck to visit them for one day every year before she returned to the heavenly abode. This day is considered "Xiao Yan."
2. Cleaning Homes: People clean their homes before "Xiao Yan" as a way to remove bad luck and to welcome the gods and spirits for the upcoming New Year. This custom is known as "sweeping the ground."
3. Offering Sacrifices: Sacrifices such as food, fruits, and candies are offered to the gods and ancestors during "Xiao Yan" to express gratitude and seek their blessings for the coming year.
In summary, the origin of "Xiao Yan" is rooted in ancient Chinese traditions, including legends, agricultural practices, and the honoring of gods and spirits. It serves as a transitional period between the old year and the new, marking the start of the New Year celebrations.
「点击下面查看原网页 领取您的八字精批报告☟☟☟☟☟☟」