As the Lunar New Year celebrations continue to unfold, the fifth day, known as "Po Wu" in Chinese, holds a special place in the hearts of many. It's a day filled with age - old traditions, vibrant activities, and the promise of a prosperous year ahead. From the moment the sun rises, the air is thick with the anticipation of welcoming the God of Wealth, a symbol of fortune and abundance. As we delve deeper into the significance of this day, we'll uncover the rich tapestry of customs and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. So, let's embark on this cultural journey and discover the wonders of the fifth day of the Chinese New Year.
The fifth day of the lunar new year, known as "Po Wu" in Chinese, is a day that marks a significant transition within the Spring Festival celebrations. It is a time when the anticipation of a prosperous new year reaches a crescendo, as people eagerly welcome the God of Wealth. This day is not only about the hope for financial gain but also about breaking free from the constraints of the past and embracing new beginnings.
In Chinese culture, the number five holds special significance. It is associated with the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, and earth) and the five directions (north, south, east, west, and center). The fifth day of the lunar new year is seen as a time to balance these elements and directions, ensuring harmony and prosperity in all aspects of life. As the saying goes, "Breaking the fifth, everything goes smoothly." This encapsulates the belief that on this day, any obstacles or taboos from the past can be overcome, paving the way for a bright and prosperous future.
The Origin of the Festival
The origin of the fifth day of the Chinese New Year is steeped in rich legends and cultural beliefs. One of the most well - known legends is that it is the birthday of the God of Wealth. It is said that on this day, the God of Wealth bestows fortune and prosperity upon the world. People believe that by performing the proper rituals and offerings, they can attract the God of Wealth to their homes and businesses, ensuring a year filled with financial success. This belief has been passed down through generations, and the tradition of welcoming the God of Wealth on this day remains a central part of the celebrations.
Another significant aspect of the fifth day is the custom of "sending away the God of Poverty." This tradition is based on the idea of getting rid of poverty and bad luck, making way for a prosperous new year. According to legend, there are five types of poverty: intellectual poverty, academic poverty, literary poverty, fate poverty, and social poverty. To "send away" these forms of poverty, people clean their houses thoroughly, sweeping out the accumulated dirt and debris, which symbolically represents the removal of all that is unwanted. This act is not only a physical cleansing but also a spiritual one, as it is believed to clear the way for good fortune and new beginnings.
Reopening of Shops
For businesses, the fifth day of the Chinese New Year marks the end of the holiday break and the beginning of a new business year. After a few days of closure to celebrate the Spring Festival, shops and stores across the country reopen their doors with great fanfare. This tradition is not only a practical step to resume business operations but also holds deep cultural significance.
Business owners often perform a series of rituals to ensure a prosperous year. They may set off firecrackers in front of their stores to ward off evil spirits and attract good luck. Offerings are made to the God of Wealth, with the hope that the deity will bestow abundant business opportunities and financial success. The reopening of shops on this day symbolizes the start of a new cycle of economic activity, filled with optimism and the promise of growth. It is a time when the streets come alive with the hustle and bustle of commerce once again, as people resume their daily shopping and trading activities.