Origin and meaning of Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnamese culture

The Mid-Autumn Festival, held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, has long been considered one of the most important and intimate holidays in the cultural life of Vietnamese people.

Formed from the intersection of nature, agriculture and traditional beliefs, this holiday carries many profound meanings.

1. Origin of Mid-Autumn Festival

The origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival has a long history, closely associated with East Asian cultures, especially Vietnam and China.

The Mid-Autumn Festival originated in China with the custom of moon worship, then was introduced to Vietnam. Over time, this holiday has been Vietnamized, harmoniously combined with the national cultural identity.

The eighth lunar month is the time when farmers have finished harvesting their crops. This is the time when they can rest, gather together and hold festivals to express their gratitude to heaven and earth and pray for a bountiful harvest in the coming seasons.

According to traditional beliefs, the moon symbolizes fullness and reunion. The full moon in August is also the time when the moon is brightest and most beautiful in the year, becoming a special symbol to admire and honor.

In addition, the birth of the Mid-Autumn Festival tradition is also associated with many legends and folk beliefs. One of the famous stories is the legend of Hang and Cuoi in Vietnamese culture, or the story of Hang Nga on the moon in Chinese culture. These stories not only enrich the spiritual value of the festival but also evoke the beauty of traditional culture, creating opportunities for generations to preserve and promote national identity.

2. The meaning of the Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnamese culture

Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is one of the most important and meaningful traditional holidays in Vietnamese culture.

Held on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, this is not only an occasion to enjoy the beauty of the bright full moon in the sky, but also a special time for families to gather together, share joy and enjoy moments of reunion.

Traditionally, the Mid-Autumn Festival has a profound meaning about the harmony between humans and nature, and is also an opportunity to express gratitude to heaven and earth for a bountiful harvest.

This is also a festival for children, known as "Children's Tet," when they can participate in countless interesting activities such as carrying lanterns, breaking the cake, and enjoying the sweet and flavorful moon cakes. The image of colorful lanterns and the laughter of children have become indispensable symbols of this holiday.

In addition, the Mid-Autumn Festival is also associated with spiritual values and family traditions. For adults, this is not only an opportunity to recall beautiful childhood memories but also an occasion to strengthen close family relationships. The moon cakes are always handed out with thoughts and respect, expressing solidarity, love, and respect for each other.

Not only that, the Mid-Autumn Festival also has a unique feng shui meaning when many people believe that the full moon on this day symbolizes fulfillment, prosperity, and wealth. Therefore, the festival is often held with many rituals and activities to pray for a harmonious and lucky life for every family.

The Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnamese culture is not only a simple holiday but also a symbol of family love, community solidarity, and childhood joy. This is an opportunity for everyone, whether old or young, to feel precious human values and find peace in their souls through the sacred moments of a full moon night./.

(Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/nguon-goc-va-y-nghia-cua-ram-trung-thu-trong-van-hoa-viet-post1062210.vnp