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“The Ancient’s Warning: Unveiling the Hidden Meanings Behind Gift-Giving Taboos”

10 September, 2024

The saying, “Don’t gift an umbrella at a wedding, don’t gift medicine when wishing longevity, and don’t wear heavy makeup at a funeral” holds significant cultural and superstitious value. But what do these sayings truly mean?

1. What’s the meaning behind “Don’t gift an umbrella at a wedding”?

Whether in rural or urban areas, weddings are momentous occasions for individuals and their families, marking a new chapter in life. It is customary for well-wishers to bring gifts as a token of their happiness and support for the newlywed couple.

Gifting an umbrella to a newly married couple is believed to bring bad luck and signify impending separation. (Illustrative image)

However, one item that should never be given as a gift at a wedding is an umbrella. In the Chinese language, the word for “umbrella” (sǎn) sounds similar to the word “separate” or “part ways” (sàn). Thus, giving an umbrella as a gift is considered a curse, symbolizing the couple’s future separation.

2. Why is it considered inappropriate to gift medicine when wishing someone a long life?

When celebrating someone’s longevity, it is customary to bring gifts as a token of your well-wishes. However, one item that you should avoid gifting is medicine or cigarettes.

Gifting medicine to elders on their birthday or when wishing them a long life is considered impolite. (Illustrative image)

While it may seem like a thoughtful gift to promote health, doing so on their special day implies that you wish for their swift departure from this world. This gesture is considered extremely impolite and offensive.

3. Why is heavy makeup frowned upon at funerals?

Our ancestors advised against wearing heavy makeup during funerals. Typically, makeup is associated with happiness and celebrations, such as weddings or parties.

Funerals are solemn occasions, and wearing heavy makeup may be seen as a sign of disrespect or insensitivity to the grieving family.

Applying heavy makeup at a funeral can be seen as disrespectful and insensitive to the grieving family. It may also give the impression that you are happy about the death of the deceased, which is certainly not the message you want to convey.

These sayings and superstitions are deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and traditions. While some may find them outdated, they continue to hold significance for many, especially the older generation.

Note: This article is for reference only and does not represent any personal beliefs or opinions.

Frequently asked questions

The article unveils the hidden meanings behind gift-giving taboos from ancient times. It suggests that gifts can carry negative energy and bring bad luck if not exchanged properly.

Sharp objects like knives and scissors are believed to symbolize cutting off a relationship. It is thought that giving these as gifts could sever the connection between the giver and receiver, hence the taboo.

Yes, cultural differences play a significant role in gift-giving taboos. For example, in some Asian cultures, giving shoes as a gift is considered rude, as it implies that the receiver will ‘walk away’ from the giver. Similarly, handing over a clock or watch implies that you are wishing time away, which is considered impolite.

The article suggests a few ways to avoid bad luck, such as being mindful of the type of gift, ensuring it is not something that carries negative symbolism, and also being aware of the recipient’s cultural beliefs and taboos.

Other superstitions include not giving gifts related to negative events or illnesses, avoiding gifts that symbolize bad luck, like a single shoe or an umbrella, and being cautious of expensive gifts, as they may carry a hidden agenda or create an imbalance in the relationship.