Chinese New Year is one of the most meaningful celebrations in our culture. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and gives us time to reunite with our families. Many Chinese New Year traditions focus on honoring our ancestors and welcoming prosperity. These customs reflect our shared values and hopes for the best to the year ahead.
Things We Avoid During Chinese New Year
During the first day of the celebration, people follow certain Chinese New Year taboos to protect our luck. We avoid cleaning the house because sweeping is believe to remove good fortune. We also try not to argue, cry, or say negative words, since these actions may bring sadness throughout the year. Breaking objects or wearing black and white clothing is discouraged, as these are considered unlucky according to traditional Chinese New Year beliefs.
In addition, we do not lend money or use sharp objects like knives and scissors. Lending money may suggest financial loss in the coming months. Sharp tools are avoided because they symbolically “cut off” our prosperity. These Chinese New Year traditions and taboos remind us that how we begin the year can influence what follows.
Practices That Bring Us Good Fortune
Many positive Chinese New Year traditions are practiced to invite happiness and success. We pray to our ancestors and household gods to ask for blessings and protection. We decorate our homes with red banners because red symbolizes luck and joy. Wearing new red or gold clothing also represents a fresh and prosperous start.
Food also plays an important role in our celebration. We gather to eat dumplings, which symbolize wealth and abundance. Elders give red envelopes filled with money to share good fortune with younger family members. Through these meaningful Chinese New Year traditions, we begin the year with unity, positivity, and hope.
Read more Asia news on RiseAsia.com