Moon Worship During the Mid-Autumn Festival: Timing and Superstitions
The Mid-Autumn Festival, occurring on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, marks the year’s brightest and most beautiful full moon. This festival celebrates the harvest moon, and it is considered an occasion to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and to pray for a prosperous future. Families gather to admire the moon while enjoying cakes and tea together.
The ritual of worshipping the moon, or ‘cúng trăng’ in Vietnamese, is a significant part of the Mid-Autumn Festival. It is believed that by showing gratitude to the moon, one invites brightness and abundance into their lives. Over time, the festival has become a cherished occasion for family reunions and gatherings.
According to ancient customs, the moon worship ritual should take place after noon. This is because noon marks the peak of the sun’s power, and as the sun starts to wane, the moon begins to emerge. Therefore, the ideal time to hold the ceremony is in the evening, when the moon is at its brightest and most visible.
Mid-Autumn Festival Moon Worship: Timing and Superstitions
Another superstition associated with the festival is the avoidance of pointing at the moon. It is considered disrespectful and unlucky to point at the moon, as it is revered as a deity. The bright moon symbolizes perfection, completeness, and goodness. Therefore, pointing at it is seen as an offense to the moon god and may lead to unfortunate consequences.
Other Taboos and Superstitions During the Mid-Autumn Festival
It is believed that people who are ill or physically weak should avoid going outdoors during the festival. The vibrant moon is at its peak power, and according to ancient beliefs, the strong yin energy could negatively affect one’s health. This superstition particularly applies to women who have recently given birth and are still in a state of physical weakness.
Wearing dark-colored clothing is also considered taboo during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Bright and cheerful colors are preferred, as they are believed to bring good luck. Wearing dark colors is thought to invite bad luck and misfortune. Instead, people are encouraged to wear yellow or red, with a special emphasis on red underwear, as it is considered lucky during this festival. Additionally, wearing a red string bracelet on the hand or foot is said to attract love and improve one’s romantic prospects.
Attracting Luck and Love During the Mid-Autumn Festival
Another superstition advises against having hair cover the forehead. It is believed that the forehead attracts wealth and fortune, and by keeping it exposed, one invites prosperity into their life.
To further enhance luck and prosperity during the Mid-Autumn Festival, people often light lanterns and participate in moon-viewing processions. The light from the lanterns is thought to ward off evil spirits, bringing joy and positivity. Additionally, it is considered auspicious to offer incense to ancestors and pray for good fortune at the temple.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a time for family reunions, and it is believed that wearing red clothing and accessories can bring additional luck and happiness. So, along with enjoying the moon and delicious treats, don’t forget to don your brightest reds and yellows to celebrate this joyous occasion.
This information is for reference only and is based on traditional beliefs.
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