The Heavens Forbid!

 (2 min)

Today marks the 3rd day of the Lunar New Year.  Traditionally the Chinese celebrate in full steam 15 days of the new lunar year. Thus there were certain things allowed and forbidden on the 15 days. It is just like the days God took to create the world and man. 

First and foremost the 3rd day of the Lunar New Year was known as "Crimson Dog Day" (aka 赤狗日). This meant that  no visiting activities were allowed as it would invite arguments. 

I remember I was told that my late grandfather did not allow the family to go out nor receive guests. Heavens Forbid...lest the people get involved in arguments.  To me, it does  not sound very meaningful even when  I hear about this superstitious today.

I have a rational explanation for this superstitious practice. The Chinese would have been so busy and tired from all that visiting, drinking, eating, talking and forgoing sleep such  that it would be a good idea to rest on the third day. 

Like the Chinese saying,(休息是為了走更長的路) A rest is only the first step of a longer journey ahead. 

This makes sense as there are still another 12 days of celebration coming up.

OXOX



Comments