(2024年9月)中秋节的由来英文版简短
The Origin of the Mid-Autumn Festival - A Brief Introduction in English
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival, is one of the most important traditional festivals celebrated in China and among Chinese communities worldwide. This festival is held on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, when the moon is believed to be at its fullest and brightest.
Ancient Origins
The origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival can be traced back over 3,000 years to the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). During this time, it was customary for emperors to perform sacrificial rites in honor of the moon during the autumn harvest season. The tradition evolved into a celebration of the moon, symbolizing reunion and harmony among family members.
Legends and Myths
Several legends are associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. One of the most popular tales involves Chang'e, the lunar goddess. According to legend, after her husband Hou Yi shot down nine suns, he was given an elixir of immortality. However, fearing that it would cause separation, Chang'e drank it all and flew to the moon, where she resides eternally. Another story tells of Wu Gang, who is doomed to endlessly cut down a self-healing cassia tree as punishment for his misdeeds.
Celebration Traditions
The festival is marked by various customs and activities. Eating mooncakes, which are round pastries filled with sweet bean paste, lotus seed paste, or other fillings, is a traditional activity symbolizing unity and completeness. Families gather together to admire the full moon, often releasing lanterns into the sky or setting them afloat on water, signifying good fortune and warding off evil spirits.
Modern Celebrations and Global Reach
In contemporary times, while the core traditions remain intact, the festival has also become an occasion for public holidays and grand celebrations in many Asian countries. It has transcended cultural boundaries and is celebrated not only in China but also in Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and even by Chinese communities in Western countries. The Mid-Autumn Festival continues to be a time for families to come together, share stories, and enjoy the warmth of each other's company.
