The origins and legends of the Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, usually in September or October. This festival has a long history and is associated with various legends and customs.
Origins:
The exact origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival is not clear, but it is believed to have started during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). One of the main reasons for celebrating this festival is to honor the moon, which is considered a symbol of harmony and completeness. It is also thought to have roots in the ancient Chinese agricultural culture, where people celebrated the harvest.
Legends:
There are several legends related to the Mid-Autumn Festival. The most famous one is about Chang'e, the Moon Goddess. According to the story, a heavenly archer named Hou Yi won a magic potion that could grant immortality. However, his wife, Chang'e, drank it by accident and became immortal. To escape from her jealous husband, she fled to the moon, where she still resides. People celebrate the festival by looking at the full moon and enjoying mooncakes, a traditional dessert.
Another legend is about a rabbit living on the moon that stirs a medicine pot for the immortality elixir. The rabbit is said to be a loyal pet of Chang'e and is often depicted in mooncakes and decorations.
Customs:
The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated with various customs, including:
1. Moon Viewing: People gather to watch the full moon, which is believed to be the roundest and brightest of the year. This is a time for families to be together and appreciate the beauty of the moon.
2. Eating Mooncakes: Mooncakes are round pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients. They are a symbol of团圆 (tuanyuan), which means reunion. Mooncakes are usually given as gifts to family and friends.
3. Lanterns: Red lanterns are hung in homes and streets to celebrate the festival. These lanterns represent happiness and prosperity.
4. Dragon and Lion Dances: In some regions, dragon and lion dances are performed to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for people to come together, appreciate the beauty of nature, and cherish the bonds of family and friendship.
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