Chinese New Year is fast approaching, starting on 28th January 2017.
Following on from my last post, introducing you to this fabulous celebration, I am going to delve further into some traditions that are present during this time and of which have been around for centuries.
The Giving of the Red Envelopes.
Why is it that the Chinese population give out these dainty red envelopes to children, relatives, friends and business associates at their time of year?
What is so special about them?
Well, the giving of the red envelopes, HongBao (as it's called in Mandarin), is an age old tradition.
These red envelopes will always contain money and are given out as a little favour, in celebration of Chinese New Year. They are to wish the recipient good fortune and luck for the coming year.
If you want to read more about the legend of the Red Envelopes, then click on the link below;
http://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/festivals/chinese-new-year-legends.htm
So why is it that these envelopes are always red?
Well Red is a very powerful and important colour in the Chinese culture. This is because, to the Chinese, red is always associated with happiness and good fortune. It is symbolic of fire and is said to ward off evil spirits. (Ideas of which have stemmed down the generations from the legend of the dragon, mentioned in my previous post).
Due to this, the Chinese enjoy decorating their houses and building with the colour red and this colour is prodominantly shown as festivals, weddings, birthdays and of course throughout the Chinese New Year.
So the significance of the Red Envelopes, is not e envelope itself, but the colour of it.
Wrapping money in red paper is expected to bestow more happiness and blessing to the receiver.
Therefore, it is impolite to open the red envelope in front of the person who gave it to you.
Those who receive a red envelope are wished another safe and peaceful year.
Traditionally speaking, if you have started earning money, then it is time for you to start giving out red envelopes of your own. However, if you are not married, then you need not give any out.
Your parents and family members, such as grandparents, will continue to give you red envelopes, even when married, as a token of love and blessing for you.
Now, here is a good question. How much do you give?
Well, here's a brief break down of amounts;
- To your elders (e.g. Parents/grandparents) : 500 - 2,000 yuan is given.
- To the younger generation of your family, without an income (including children at school) : 50 - 200 yuan is given
- To your own children : 100 - whatever you deem suitable is given.
- To your employees : 100 - 1,000 yuan is given. (This is always given on the last working day before New Year).
- To other children you may encounter at New Year : 10 - 20 yuan is prepared to give, when they are seen.
So get saving folks, because this is definately not going to be a cheap holiday for you to celebrate,especially if you have a big family! Just don't forget someone, as they won't be best pleased!
Stay tuned for my Chinese New Year updates and for the day itself ( ...and the 15 others!).
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