Exploring the Hanshi Festival: A Blend of Tradition and Springtime Joy

 

The Hanshi Festival, also known as the Cold Food Festival, is a cherished traditional Chinese holiday that takes place one or two days before the Qingming Festival. Steeped in history and legend, this festival offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s cultural heritage, combining solemn remembrance with the vibrant celebrations of spring.

A Legendary Origin

According to legend, the Hanshi Festival was established to honor Jie Zitui, a loyal minister from the Spring and Autumn period. During this tumultuous era, Chong’er, the heir to the Duke of Jin, was forced into exile. Among those who stood by him was Jie Zitui, who demonstrated extraordinary devotion. When Chong’er faced starvation, Jie Zitui cut flesh from his own leg to feed him. Years later, after Chong’er returned to power as Duke Wen of Jin, he sought to reward Jie Zitui for his loyalty. However, Jie refused any reward and retreated to the mountains with his mother. In a desperate attempt to force him out, Chong’er ordered the mountain to be set ablaze, but tragically, Jie Zitui perished in the flames. To commemorate his sacrifice, people began abstaining from lighting fires on the day of the Hanshi Festival, giving rise to its name, the "Cold Food Festival," as meals were eaten cold.

An Ancient Ritual Unveiled

While the tale of Jie Zitui is compelling, modern research suggests a different origin tied to ancient fire-making customs. In early China, people used specific types of wood to create fire, changing the wood with the seasons in a ritual known as "changing the fire." Before the new seasonal fire was introduced, lighting fires was forbidden. This prohibition elevated the Hanshi Festival to a significant event in ancient times, marking a moment of transition and renewal.

Customs of the Hanshi Festival

The festival is a lively mix of activities that reflect both reverence and revelry. Traditional customs include:

- Tomb Sweeping: A time to honor the deceased by cleaning graves and paying respects.

- Outings: Families venture outdoors to enjoy the spring weather.

- Cockfighting: A competitive pastime rooted in ancient traditions.

- Swinging: A playful activity symbolizing the freedom of the season.

- Ball Games: Early forms of football (known as cuju蹴踘) or polo in some periods, showcasing athletic skill.

- Tug-of-War: A test of strength and community spirit.

A Tang Dynasty Twist: Egg Carving

By the time of the Tang Dynasty, the Hanshi Festival had evolved to include a delightful custom: the carving and decorating of eggs. This artistic practice, symbolizing new life and the renewal of spring, became a fashionable activity. The famous poet Bai Juyi immortalized this tradition in his work, noting, “Exquisitely carved eggs, gracefully painted balls and flowers.”

A Poetic Celebration

Bai Juyi, a renowned Tang Dynasty poet, captured the essence of the Hanshi Festival in one of his twenty poems from the series *Harmonizing with Spring’s Depth*. His words paint a vivid picture of the festival’s atmosphere:

> Where is the finest scene in late spring? 

> It’s in the homes during the Hanshi Festival.

> With exquisitely carved eggs and gracefully decorated balls and flowers.

> Riders gallop across the green meadows,

> While carriages head to sweep the ancestral tombs.

> Slender young women on swings, swaying gently with the breeze.

This poem beautifully weaves together the festival’s dual nature—honoring the past while embracing the joys of the present.

A Festival of Balance

The Hanshi Festival is a remarkable blend of solemnity and celebration. Whether rooted in the sacrifice of Jie Zitui or the ancient rites of fire, it remains a time to reflect on history and welcome the vitality of spring. From tomb sweeping to egg carving, its traditions continue to resonate, offering a window into the rich tapestry of Chinese culture.

 

Proud of you for Reading this Article !!

Discount Code: eggcarving