The origin of "Saying Goodbye to the Old Year" (拜年), also known as Chinese New Year's Eve, can be traced back to ancient China. In English, the explanation might go as follows:
The tradition of "Saying Goodbye to the Old Year" dates back to ancient Chinese beliefs and customs. It is believed to have originated from the ancient Chinese practice of warding off evil spirits and welcoming the New Year with good luck and prosperity. According to legend, on this night, evil spirits were most active, and people would stay up late to protect their homes and families.
During the Shang and Zhou dynasties, the Chinese celebrated the New Year on the first day of the first lunar month, which corresponds to the current Chinese New Year. The evening of this day, known as Chinese New Year's Eve, was a time for families to gather, prepare special festive meals, and engage in various traditional activities to ensure a prosperous year ahead.
Over time, the celebration of Chinese New Year's Eve evolved, incorporating various elements from different cultural and regional traditions. It is characterized by customs such as setting off fireworks, giving red envelopes (hóngbāo) containing money to children, and preparing elaborate feasts.
The night before the New Year's Day is also when people perform the ritual of "Saying Goodbye to the Old Year." It involves cleaning the home to sweep away any bad luck from the past year, offering prayers to deities and ancestors, and making special dumplings (nian gao) or other traditional foods to symbolize wealth and good fortune.
In summary, "Saying Goodbye to the Old Year" is a significant part of the Chinese New Year celebration, rooted in ancient beliefs and practices aimed at ensuring good luck, prosperity, and protection for the coming year.
「点击下面查看原网页 领取您的八字精批报告☟☟☟☟☟☟」