Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is a time filled with traditions, rituals, and symbolism meant to usher in good fortune, health, and prosperity. However, there are also various taboos and foods to avoid during this auspicious period, as they are believed to bring bad luck or misfortune. Understanding these customs can help ensure a harmonious celebration while respecting the cultural significance of the festival.
10 Taboos During Chinese New Year
- Avoid Negative Words
Words such as “death,” “sickness,” “poverty,” or “pain” are considered inauspicious. Speaking positively is encouraged to attract good fortune and avoid bad luck. - Don’t Clean or Sweep on the First Day
Cleaning or sweeping during the first day of Chinese New Year is thought to sweep away good fortune and prosperity. Many families clean thoroughly before the festival begins to avoid this taboo. - No Breaking of Objects
Breaking items such as plates, glasses, or mirrors is believed to symbolize shattered luck and financial loss. If something is accidentally broken, one should wrap the shards in red paper and say auspicious phrases to neutralize the bad omen. - Avoid Washing Hair
Washing your hair on the first day of the New Year is thought to wash away wealth, as the Chinese word for “hair” (发, fà) is similar to the word for “wealth” (发财, fācái). - Don’t Wear Black or White
Black and white are traditionally associated with mourning and funerals in Chinese culture. Instead, bright colors, especially red, are encouraged to symbolize happiness and good fortune. - No Lending or Borrowing Money
Lending or borrowing money during Chinese New Year is believed to lead to financial struggles throughout the year. It’s best to settle debts before the festival begins. - Avoid Crying or Fighting
Crying, arguing, or losing your temper during the New Year period is considered bad luck. Parents often avoid scolding their children to maintain a harmonious atmosphere. - No Use of Sharp Objects
Knives and scissors are avoided during the New Year as they are believed to “cut off” good luck. This is why many families prepare food in advance to minimize the use of such tools. - Don’t Eat Porridge for Breakfast
Eating porridge is seen as a sign of poverty, as it was traditionally a staple for the poor. Starting the day with other more auspicious foods is recommended. - Avoid Odd or Incomplete Numbers in Red Packets
When giving red packets (hongbao), it’s important to avoid odd or incomplete numbers, as they are associated with funerals. Even numbers, particularly those ending in “8” (symbolizing wealth), are considered lucky.
7 Forbidden Foods During Chinese New Year
- Bitter Gourd
Bitter gourd symbolizes hardship and bitterness, which are undesirable traits to carry into the New Year. Foods that suggest a bitter life are avoided during this festive period. - Tofu
White foods like tofu are avoided as white is associated with mourning. While tofu is a common food, it is often excluded during the New Year to avoid any negative symbolism. - Crabs
Crabs are avoided because they move sideways rather than forward, symbolizing a lack of progress in life and career. - Pears
Pears are considered inauspicious because the Chinese word for pear (lí) sounds like the word for separation. Giving or eating pears could imply separation from loved ones. - Squid
Squid is associated with job loss or failure because in Chinese slang, the phrase “fired from a job” is linked to the act of folding a squid. - Congee (Rice Porridge)
As mentioned earlier, rice porridge is a symbol of poverty and is avoided during Chinese New Year to start the year on a prosperous note. - Fish Without Leftovers
While fish is considered a symbol of abundance, finishing the fish entirely during the meal is discouraged. Leaving leftovers signifies surplus and wealth in the coming year.
The Symbolism of Food and Tradition
Chinese New Year celebrations are deeply rooted in symbolism, with foods and customs representing wishes for happiness, prosperity, and longevity. While some traditions focus on attracting good fortune, avoiding certain actions and foods is equally important to ward off bad luck.
By adhering to these taboos and avoiding the forbidden foods, families aim to start the Lunar New Year on an auspicious note, ensuring that the coming year is filled with blessings and good fortune. Whether you’re participating in the celebrations for the first time or continuing a family tradition, these guidelines provide a deeper appreciation for the cultural richness of Chinese New Year.
