The Winter Solstice, also known as Dongzhi in Chinese, is an important traditional festival celebrated in China and some other East Asian countries. It usually falls on December 21 or 22 each year. Below is a brief introduction to the origins and customs of the Winter Solstice.
**Origins:**
The Winter Solstice has its roots in ancient agricultural society, where people observed the changing seasons and natural cycles. It is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the beginning of winter. This time was believed to be a time when the sun's power was at its weakest, and the yin energy was dominant.
In ancient Chinese astrology, the Winter Solstice was associated with the element of water and the North star, representing the most yin time of the year. The day was considered to be the turning point, where the days would start getting longer and the nights shorter again.
**Customs:**
1. **Eating Glutinous Rice Balls (Zongzi):** The most famous custom of Dongzhi is eating "Tangyuan," which are sticky rice balls filled with sweet or savory fillings like red bean paste, lotus seed paste, or sweet potato. This is believed to bring prosperity and happiness in the coming year.
2. **Wearing New Clothing:** It is traditional to wear new clothes on the Winter Solstice to symbolize a fresh start and to ward off bad luck.
3. **Tempering the Water:** It is believed that on the Winter Solstice, the water has the highest quality. People often collect and store water that day, thinking it can be used for medicinal purposes throughout the year.
4. **Celebrating the Reunion Dinner:** Many families gather for a big dinner on this day, symbolizing the gathering of the family and the continuation of the lineage.
5. **Temple Fairs:** In some areas, temple fairs are held to celebrate the festival, with traditional performances, games, and snacks.
6. **Lighting Candles:** In some regions, candles are lit to symbolize the return of the sun and to ward off evil spirits.
These customs and traditions vary across different regions of China and neighboring countries, reflecting the rich cultural heritage associated with the Winter Solstice.
「点击下面查看原网页 领取您的八字精批报告☟☟☟☟☟☟」