收到压岁钱英文怎么写（Receiving Red Envelopes A Traditional Chinese New Year Custom）
Receiving Red Envelopes: A Traditional Chinese New Year Custom
Chinese New Year is a much-celebrated festival around the world. One of the traditions that make it particularly exciting for children is the giving of red envelopes. Known as \"hongbao\" in Mandarin and \"lai see\" in Cantonese, these packets are typically filled with money and given to young people during the New Year period. Here, we will explore what receiving red envelopes means, how to give them and why they are so important in Chinese culture.
History and Meaning of Red Envelopes
The history of red envelopes goes back to ancient times. According to legend, a demon named Sui terrorized children on New Year's Eve, stealing their money and possessions. To protect their children from harm, parents put coins in red paper envelopes and gave them to their children to keep under their pillows at night. The loud firecrackers and red lanterns which were also used to scare away the demon became symbols of good luck and prosperity over time; red envelopes too, acquired the same significance.
Today, red envelopes are a symbol of good luck and well-wishes. The amount of money in the envelope is not as important as the gesture and the act of giving. The tradition of giving red envelopes reflects a desire on the part of elders to bless younger people with wealth and happiness, and to show love and affection. It is also a way to express gratitude to others and to wish them success and good fortune in the coming year.
How to Give and Receive Red Envelopes
There are some important customs to keep in mind when giving and receiving red envelopes. First, red is a symbol of luck, so the envelopes should always be red - it is unlucky to give or receive a white envelope. Additionally, the amount of money should always be an even number, as odd numbers are associated with funerals and mourning. The amount of money should be appropriate - usually around 100 yuan ($15) or more - and it is traditional for married people to give more than single people.
On the day of Chinese New Year, children and young unmarried adults visit their elders and wish them a happy New Year. Elders will then give them red envelopes as a sign of their love and blessings. It is also appropriate to give red envelopes to employees or service providers as a way to say thank you and wish them prosperity and good fortune in the coming year.
The Significance of Red Envelopes in Chinese Culture
Red envelopes are more than just a monetary gift - they represent an important cultural tradition. The custom of giving red envelopes is a way to reinforce family ties and relationships and to express kinship and mutual respect. The act of giving and receiving red envelopes also instills values such as generosity, gratitude, and appreciation in young people. These values are important for building strong interpersonal relationships and a harmonious society.
In conclusion, the tradition of giving red envelopes is an integral part of Chinese New Year. The significance of these envelopes goes beyond monetary value to represent love, blessings, and good wishes. As a cultural practice, red envelopes offer a way to reinforce and maintain strong family and social bonds, while instilling important values in young people. Chinese New Year is a time for family, friends, and prosperity, and the giving of red envelopes is a wonderful way to celebrate all three.