By: Emily Wu, Staff Writer
As we approach the end of January, we are also approaching Chinese New Year. A celebration that can be traced back thousands of years in history, the holiday is known for family reunions, superstitions, and festive traditions.
The Chinese zodiac calendar consists of 12 animals; the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. These animals were chosen from a Chinese story of a Jade Emperor who wanted to create a way to measure time, so he organized an event known as the Great Race. Their sequence was chosen by the order they completed the race, with each animal taking up one year, and hence creating a 12 year cycle for all animals.
This year is the Year of the Snake, a time for wisdom and renewal. People born under this sign are known for their intelligence, determination, and care, being able to navigate through challenges with a calm process. Along with the snake, this year is paired up with the wood element, a symbol of growth and strength. As we embrace the Year of the Snake, it also gives a moment to reflect on aspects that bring Chinese culture luck and positivity.
In Chinese tradition, certain numbers and colors are believed to hold special value. The number 8 for instance, is considered to represent wealth and prosperity, while colors like red, yellow, and gold are seen as symbols of success, power, and happiness.
While the culture acknowledges the lucky elements, it is also important to know which ones to avoid. The number 4 is known to bring misfortune, as its pronunciation in Chinese is similar to the word ‘death’. Colors like black and white are also connected to bad luck, negativity, and mourning.
Chinese New Year offers traditions to ward off misfortune and invite good luck to the new year. Red envelopes are one of the most popular traditions, bringing more excitement towards kids and teens. Generally given out by elders and adults, envelopes filled with money are handed out to children to wish them luck for the year ahead.
Families can also be seen cleaning out their houses and surrounding areas before the start of the new year. Cleaning their homes can be associated with removing bad luck from the previous year to allow for a fresh start.
To bring communities together, the dragon dance is a highlight of Chinese New Year celebrations. Teams of dancers control a long, colorful dragon puppet made of paper and fabric and carried on poles. The dance is believed to drive away bad luck and symbolize power and strength.
As we celebrate Chinese New Year, we not only honor the history that has been passed down but also the significance of renewal, family, and community. The Year of the Snake, with its focus of wisdom, intuition, and growth invites us to reflect, embrace change, and welcome new opportunities.
