Language/Mandarin-chinese/Culture/Double-Ninth-Festival-and-Chongyang-Cake
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| ◀️ Dragon Boat Festival and Zongzi — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Action Verbs and Stative Verbs ▶️ |
Introduction[edit | edit source]
In this lesson, we will explore the Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, and learn about its customs and traditions. This festival is celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth month in the lunar calendar, which usually falls in October. The Double Ninth Festival is a time for people to pay respects to their ancestors, appreciate the beauty of autumn, and enjoy the company of family and friends. One of the highlights of this festival is the Chongyang Cake, a special treat that is consumed during the celebrations. Join us as we delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Double Ninth Festival and discover the significance of the Chongyang Cake.
Origins and Significance[edit | edit source]
The Double Ninth Festival has a long history dating back to ancient times. Its origins can be traced back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE). The number nine is considered yang, or masculine, in Chinese culture, and the ninth day of the ninth month represents a double dose of yang energy. In traditional Chinese beliefs, yang energy is associated with positive attributes such as strength, vitality, and good fortune. The Double Ninth Festival is therefore seen as an auspicious day to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
The festival is also closely associated with the concept of filial piety, which is a fundamental value in Chinese culture. Filial piety refers to the respect and devotion that children have towards their parents and ancestors. The Double Ninth Festival provides an opportunity for people to express their gratitude and reverence to their elders by visiting their graves and offering prayers and offerings.
In addition to its cultural and symbolic significance, the Double Ninth Festival is also an occasion to celebrate the beauty of autumn. The festival takes place during the harvest season when the weather is pleasant and the countryside is adorned with vibrant fall foliage. Many people take advantage of this time to go on outings, climb mountains, and appreciate the natural scenery.
Customs and Traditions[edit | edit source]
The Double Ninth Festival is celebrated in various ways across different regions of China. Here are some of the common customs and traditions associated with this festival:
Climbing Mountains[edit | edit source]
One of the most popular activities during the Double Ninth Festival is mountain climbing. This tradition is believed to have originated from the belief that climbing to higher elevations helps to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. Many people, especially the elderly, take this opportunity to climb mountains and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the famous mountains that attract a large number of visitors during this festival include Mount Tai, Mount Hua, and Mount Huangshan.
Paying Respects to Ancestors[edit | edit source]
As mentioned earlier, the Double Ninth Festival is a time to honor and remember ancestors. People visit the graves of their loved ones to clean the tombstones, offer flowers, burn incense, and make offerings of food and wine. It is believed that by doing so, the spirits of the ancestors will be appeased and their blessings will be bestowed upon the family. This act of filial piety is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and is seen as a way to ensure the well-being and prosperity of future generations.
Wearing Cornus Officinalis[edit | edit source]
Cornus officinalis, also known as the dogwood fruit, is believed to have medicinal properties and is associated with warding off evil spirits. During the Double Ninth Festival, it is common to see people wearing cornus officinalis on their clothing or hanging it on doors and windows as a form of protection. This practice is believed to bring good luck and drive away negative energy.
Drinking Chrysanthemum Wine[edit | edit source]
Chrysanthemums are the symbolic flowers of the Double Ninth Festival. They are known for their vibrant colors and pleasant fragrance. During the festival, it is customary to drink chrysanthemum wine, which is made by infusing the flowers in rice wine. Chrysanthemum wine is believed to have health benefits and is said to help ward off evil spirits. It is also a way to celebrate the beauty of autumn and enjoy the company of family and friends.
Making and Eating Chongyang Cake[edit | edit source]
One of the highlights of the Double Ninth Festival is the Chongyang Cake, also known as the Double Ninth Cake. This special cake is made from a variety of ingredients, including glutinous rice flour, nuts, dried fruits, and honey. It is steamed or baked and then cut into small pieces for consumption. The Chongyang Cake is not only delicious but also carries symbolic meaning. Its round shape represents unity and harmony, while the layers symbolize the steps to success and prosperity. Eating Chongyang Cake during the festival is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Chongyang Cake Recipe[edit | edit source]
If you would like to try making Chongyang Cake at home, here is a simple recipe to follow:
Ingredients[edit | edit source]
- 500 grams of glutinous rice flour
- 100 grams of walnuts, chopped
- 100 grams of almonds, chopped
- 100 grams of dried fruits (such as dates, raisins, or apricots), chopped
- 100 grams of honey
- 100 grams of brown sugar
- 50 grams of vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Water (as needed)
Instructions[edit | edit source]
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and baking powder. Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a smooth dough. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the dough to rest.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, almonds, and dried fruits with honey and brown sugar. Set aside.
3. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion into a thin rectangular shape.
4. Spread the nut and dried fruit mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side. Repeat the process with the remaining portion of dough and filling.
6. Place the two rolls side by side and twist them together to form a braided shape. Place the braided cake on a greased baking tray.
7. Brush the cake with vegetable oil to give it a shiny appearance.
8. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool before cutting it into small pieces.
Enjoy your homemade Chongyang Cake and share it with your family and friends during the Double Ninth Festival!
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
The Double Ninth Festival is a time-honored tradition in Chinese culture, symbolizing filial piety, good luck, and the beauty of autumn. By participating in the customs and traditions associated with this festival, people not only pay tribute to their ancestors but also strengthen family bonds and appreciate the natural world. The Chongyang Cake, with its delicious taste and symbolic meaning, adds an extra layer of joy and celebration to this auspicious occasion. As you continue your journey in learning Mandarin Chinese, take the time to explore the rich cultural heritage of China's festivals and traditions, and deepen your understanding of the language and its connection to the Chinese way of life.
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Spring Festival and Chunyun
- Why Learn Chinese Mandarin
- Translations of Skyrim
- Kung Fu
- China Timeline
- China's Great Wall
- Chinese Knots and Paper cutting
- Famous Chinese Mountains and Rivers
- Chinese New Year
| ◀️ Dragon Boat Festival and Zongzi — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Action Verbs and Stative Verbs ▶️ |