When it comes to traditions and superstitions, Chinese culture has some of the most interesting and unique unspoken rules that are still followed today.
While many revolve around luck and fortune, a fair bit concerns paying respects and homage to your elders and those that have passed on as well.
In this article, we will be covering 10 of the most well-known Chinese superstitious beliefs you must know!
1. Don’t Give A Clock
Giving gifts is often seen as a good gesture, especially when it is someone’s birthday or even during a housewarming event.
However, one gift to avoid is clocks or even watches. In Chinese, giving clocks sounds similar to giving someone a final farewell or goodbye.
Definitely a misunderstanding that you want to avoid!
2. Do Deposit Money On Li Chun
Li Chun takes place on the third or fourth day of the Chinese New Year and signifies the start of the Chinese solar calendar as well as the beginning of spring.
This is an auspicious day to deposit money into the bank and is seen as fostering good fortune and inviting wealth to come throughout the year.
3. Avoid The Number 4
Whether it is picking out a home or a car plate, the number 4 is usually avoided.
Because it sounds like the word for ‘death’. It sounds very close. Because of this, you can find Chinese people actively trying to skirt around that number when it comes to their daily activities and possessions.
Whether that is the floor level their apartment is on or even their phone number!
4. Do Not Leave Chopsticks Standing Up In Your Rice
Simply put, leaving chopsticks in your rice upright isn’t a good look. Whether you are taking a break from eating or not, leave your chopsticks on the side or on the table.
This is because it reminds the Chinese of incense joss sticks at the temple or funeral.
5. Avoid Cleaning Your Home On The First Day Of The Lunar New Year
Keeping your home spick and span is important, but for the Chinese luck comes in on the first day of the Chinese New Year.
So avoid cleaning your home for a day or two and allow the auspicious luck to stay and gather in your home first. It sets the tone for the rest of the year!
6. Do Not Wear Colorful Attires During Funerals
A funeral is normally a solemn and respectful affair. The dress code to wear when attending a wake are muted colours, without prints and no short skirts.
Avoiding bright colours like red, yellow and pink is key.
7. Lucky Numbers Always Start With 6, 8 and 9
Conversely, lucky numbers for the Chinese usually involve 6, 8 and 9. It’s interesting to understand why!
The number 6 represents the smoothness and ease of things happening. Especially great for business!
The number 8 is associated with fortune, wealth and financial growth!
The number 9 represents longevity, prosperity and long-term success.
8. Red Color Is The Best For Luck & Wealth
White signifies mourning, green could represent infidelity while black is usually associated with bad luck and secrecy.
However, red is a very auspicious colour for most occasions. It represents wealth, happiness and vibrancy most commonly seen during the Lunar New year and Chinese wedding ceremonies!
9. Avoid Doors That Face North
Another interesting belief is ensuring that doors face south to rake in good luck and fortune.
The Chinese believe that evil forces come from the north and having your door facing in that direction is an invitation for bad things to enter your home.
10. Red Strings Are Provided During Funerals
It is very common to be given a red string if you attended a funeral as a guest. This is meant for you to tie on the front door knobs to keep away any evil spirits that may follow you.
In addition, you also might receive an envelope that contains a coin, candy and handkerchief that should be consumed when you get home.
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