Traditions
The Zodiac Story
One legend says that the Jade Emperor (玉皇大帝 / yù huáng dà dì) needed to choose 12 animals as palace guards. The Cat asked his neighbor Rat to help him sign up. Rat forgot, which is why they became mortal enemies.
At the palace, Ox was first in line, but Rat secretly climbed onto Ox's back and jumped in front of him. Tiger and Dragon thought it was unfair, but they could only settle behind Ox. Rabbit found it unfair too. He wanted to race with Dragon and succeeded.
This angered Dog, who bit Rabbit in a fit and was sent to the back as punishment. Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey and Rooster fought amongst themselves as well. The pig came late, after everything was finally settled, and could only be the last.
This is one version, but most speak of the "Great Race".
Taboos
Chinese New Year Taboos
https://chinesenewyear.net/taboos/
Spring Festival is a time to celebrate and strict rules and restrictions are a part of it.
1. Do not say negative words
All words with negative connotations are forbidden. These include: death, sick, emptiness, pain, ghost, poor, break, kill, and more.
2. Do not break ceramics or glass
Breaking things will break your connection to prosperity and fortune.
3. Do not clean or sweep
Before the Spring Festival, there is a day of cleaning. Once the Spring Festival begins there is no cleaning.
4. Do not use scissors, knives, or other sharp objects
In old times this was to give women a break but it also cuts the stream of wealth and success. 99% of hair saloons are closed during the holidays.
5. Do not visit the wife's family
Traditionally, the couple moves into the husband's home after marriage. Returning to her parents on New Year's Day means that there are marital problems and may also bring bad luck to the entire family. The couple should visit the wife's family on the 2nd day.
6. Do not demand debt repayment
This custom is to show understanding, giving everyone a chance to celebrate without worry.
7. Avoid fighting and crying
Unless there is a special circumstance, do not cry. In the past, neighbors would come over and be peacemaker during an argument. This is to ensure a smooth path in the new year.
8. Avoid taking medicine
Avoid medicine to avoid being sick the entire year. Related taboos: do not visit the doctor, no surgery, no shots
9. Do not give New Year blessings to someone still in bed
Give your blessing but wait for them to get out of bed first. Otherwise, they might be bedridden the entire yrar. You also shouldn't tell someone to wake up. They would be rushed and bossed around all year.
10. Gift-giving Taboos
Give gifts when visiting. But some are forbidden such as clocks.
These taboos have formed over thousands of years and represent the beliefs, wishes, and worries of the Chinese people. Like a parent would say, they are for your own good.
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Chinese Zodiac
