What is the Qixi Festival and When is it Celebrated?
The Qixi Festival, also known as the Seventh Night Festival, is a romantic day celebrated annually, commemorating the tale of Niulang (the cowherd) and Zhinu (the weaver girl). It is a day filled with cultural significance and traditions, as people not only reflect on the legendary love story but also embrace the opportunity to express their own love and wishes for a fortunate future, especially if the day is blessed with clear skies.
Various cultural activities take place, including the customary consumption of red bean porridge, believed to bring good luck and enhance one’s love life. People exchange greetings and wishes, praying for enduring and fulfilling love stories of their own.
Additionally, according to folk beliefs, there are certain dos and don’ts to follow on this day to invite peace and prosperity into one’s household.
What Should You Do on Qixi?
– Visit a Temple for Love and Peace
In alignment with feng shui beliefs and the wisdom passed down through generations, many individuals choose to visit temples on the Seventh Night of the Seventh Lunar Month to pray for peace and well-being for their loved ones and families. Beyond this, the serene atmosphere of a temple offers a respite from the stresses of daily life, providing an opportunity for one to find inner peace and tranquility.
Couples may also visit temples to seek blessings for their relationship, while singles can pray for a smooth journey ahead on their path to finding love.
– Perform Good Deeds and Embrace a Virtuous Life
The Seventh Night holds deep spiritual significance. To attract good fortune and peace, it is believed that one should engage in virtuous acts and deeds. Performing good deeds will not only bring you blessings on this special day but also accumulate positive karma for your future.
However, virtue is not limited to a single day. Embrace a life of kindness and morality every day. By consistently doing good deeds, you attract lasting happiness and peace to your family and yourself.
– Enjoy Red Bean Porridge
Year after year, as the Seventh Night approaches, there is a buzz among people to prepare and savor red bean porridge. This tradition stems from the belief that consuming this dish will lead one to find their true love and soulmate.
In the folk beliefs of many countries, the vibrant red color of the beans symbolizes strength, passion, and the fiery nature of love. In modern times, red is also associated with blossoming romance and fruitful relationships.
So, during this festival, indulge in a bowl of red bean porridge and open yourself up to the possibilities of love and a flourishing love life.
What Should You Avoid Doing on Qixi?
– Avoid Acts of Immoral Nature
On this special day, it is crucial to be mindful of your actions and refrain from engaging in any immoral or unethical behavior. By doing so, you accumulate virtue and invite peace and good fortune not only for yourself but also for your loved ones.
The Seventh Night is also an opportunity to express your love to that special someone you’ve been admiring from afar. Many young couples have found their happily-ever-after by faithfully adhering to the dos and don’ts of this romantic festival.
For a peaceful home and a fortunate year ahead, keep these beliefs in mind and embrace the magic of Qixi.
The information in this article is for reference only and is not intended as spiritual guidance.