The Origin of Mid-Autumn Festival
Part One
Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Moon Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals in China. It falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which is usually in September or October according to the Gregorian calendar. The festival has a history of over 3,000 years and is celebrated not only in China but also in many other Asian countries.
The origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival can be traced back to ancient times. Legend has it that during the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC), people worshipped the moon to pray for a good harvest. The festival became popular during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and has been celebrated ever since.
There are several legends associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. One of the most famous legends is the story of Chang'e, the Moon Goddess. According to the legend, there were ten suns in the sky, which caused a severe drought and famine on Earth. A hero named Hou Yi shot down nine of the suns, saving the people from the disaster. To reward him, the Queen Mother of the West gave him the elixir of immortality. However, Hou Yi's wife, Chang'e, accidentally swallowed the elixir and flew to the moon. Since then, people have worshipped Chang'e and offered sacrifices to the moon during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Another legend is the story of Wu Gang, a woodcutter who was punished by the gods. Wu Gang wanted to become immortal, so he went to the moon to learn from the Moon Goddess. However, he failed to pass the test and was sentenced to cut down a tree on the moon for eternity. Every time he chopped down the tree, it would immediately grow back. This legend symbolizes the pursuit of immortality and the never-ending cycle of life.
In addition to the legends, the Mid-Autumn Festival is also associated with the harvest season. During this time of the year, farmers have finished their hard work in the fields and can finally relax and enjoy the fruits of their labor. The festival is a time for family reunions, when people gather together to appreciate the full moon, eat mooncakes, and share stories and laughter.
The Mid-Autumn Festival has been celebrated for thousands of years and has become an important part of Chinese culture. It is a time for people to express their gratitude for the harvest and their love for their families. Whether through legends or customs, the festival reflects the values of unity, gratitude, and joy. As the moon shines brightly in the sky, families and friends come together to celebrate this special occasion, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Part Two
The Celebration of Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Moon Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival that is celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. It is a time for family reunions and is often considered as a Chinese version of Thanksgiving. The festival is celebrated not only in China but also in many other Asian countries, where Chinese culture has had a significant influence.
The celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival is centered around several key customs. One of the most important customs is the eating of mooncakes. Mooncakes are round pastries with various fillings, such as lotus seed paste, red bean paste, or salted egg yolk. They are usually shared among family members and friends during the festival. The round shape of the mooncakes symbolizes completeness and unity, while the sharing of mooncakes represents the act of giving and expressing love and gratitude.
Another important custom is the appreciation of the full moon. On the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, people gather outdoors to admire the moon, which is believed to be the brightest and fullest on this day. It is a time for people to express their wishes and dreams while enjoying the beauty of the moon. Lanterns are often hung on trees or carried by children, adding to the festive atmosphere.
In addition to mooncakes and moon-gazing, there are other traditional activities associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. One popular activity is the lion dance, which is performed by a group of dancers wearing lion costumes. The lion dance is believed to bring good luck and drive away evil spirits. Another activity is the dragon boat race, where teams of rowers paddle in long, narrow boats decorated like dragons. The dragon boat race is a thrilling and competitive event that attracts spectators from all over the world.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is not only a time for celebration but also for reflection and gratitude. It is a time for people to appreciate the blessings in their lives and to express their love and gratitude towards their families and friends. It is a time for unity and togetherness, as people come together to share food, stories, and laughter. The festival is a reminder of the importance of family and the value of relationships.
As the moon shines brightly in the sky, the Mid-Autumn Festival brings people closer together and creates a sense of warmth and joy. It is a time to appreciate the beauty of nature and the wonders of the universe. Whether through the sharing of mooncakes, the admiration of the full moon, or the participation in traditional activities, the celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival is a cherished tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a time to celebrate and appreciate the richness of Chinese culture and to create lasting memories with loved ones.
中秋节的来历英文版 篇三
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