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The Traditional Chinese Customs
China, with its thousands of years of continuous history, has unparalleled cultural wealth. Chinese customs (中国习俗 ) form a fundamental pillar of this ancient civilization. They shape not only daily life but also influence social relations, celebrations, and the worldview of the Chinese.
1. Respect for Elders: A Central Confucian Value
One of the most striking Chinese customs is the deep respect for elders, rooted in Confucianism (儒家 ). In Chinese tradition, elders symbolize wisdom and experience. This respect is expressed in daily gestures, such as offering the best seat to an elderly person or using more formal language in their presence.
The word "filial piety," so central in Chinese culture, is said 孝顺 (), and is one of the most valued virtues.
2. Traditional Festivals: Moments Rich in Meaning
Chinese customs are vividly expressed during traditional festivals. The most emblematic is the Chinese New Year (春节 ), celebrated at the beginning of the lunar calendar. On this occasion, families gather, decorate homes in red, give red envelopes (红包 ), and light firecrackers to ward off evil spirits.
Among other major traditional festivals are:
- The Lantern Festival (元宵节 )
- The Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋节 )
- The Dragon Boat Festival (端午节 )
These festivals, far more than celebrations, are living manifestations of Chinese customs, carrying memory, transmission, and social bonds.
3. The Art of Chinese Hospitality
Welcoming a guest is an art in China. Offering tea (茶 ) is often the first gesture of welcome. In southern regions, a scented tea might be offered; in the north, a stronger tea like black tea (红茶 ). The meal is an important moment: refusing a dish too quickly can be seen as impolite, as in Chinese culture, sharing food is an act of generosity (礼 , "politeness").
4. The Symbolism of Colors and Numbers
Chinese customs attribute deep meanings to colors and numbers. Red (红 ) symbolizes happiness and luck. White (白 ) is associated with mourning. Numbers also have their symbolism: the number 8 (八 ) is very favorable, as it sounds like the word "prosperity" (发 ), while the number 4 (四 ) is avoided, as it evokes the word "death" (死 ).
5. Ceremonies and Rites: A Living Tradition
Family rites, such as marriage (婚礼 ), follow ancient protocols: astrology, offerings to ancestors (祭祖 ), ritual presentations between families... Even birth (出生 ) gives rise to specific practices, such as the celebration of the first month (满月 ).
These Chinese customs vary by region, ethnicity, and era, but they remain deeply rooted in national culture.
6. Politeness in Communication
Saying hello (你好 ), apologizing (对不起 ), thanking (谢谢 ): in China, these words are not said mechanically. Context matters, and the use of courtesy phrases is often replaced by gestures, glances, or indirect actions. This is the art of implicit communication, unique to Chinese customs.
