The Double Ninth Festival, also known as Chongyang Festival, is a traditional Chinese holiday celebrated on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, which is rich in cultural significance and embodies themes of respect for the elderly, family gatherings, and the appreciation of nature.
每年的农历九月初九是我国的传统节日——重阳节，蕴含着尊老敬老、家人团聚和欣赏自然等深刻文化意义。
The origins of the name of the Double Ninth Festival can be traced back to Book of Changes, a classic text from the Zhou Dynasty over 2000 years. The number "nine" holds special symbolic significance in Chinese culture. Ancient people believed that "nine" was a number of "Yang", representing the power and longevity. When two "nines" are combined, it forms "Double Ninth" (i.e. Chongyang), which further emphasizes the wish for longevity and good health.
重阳节名字的起源可以追溯到两千多年前的《周易》一书，属于周朝时期的传统节日。“九”字在中国文化中有着特殊的象征意义。古人认为“九”是一种阳数，代表着力量和长寿。两个“九”并在一起，即“重阳”，则更加强调了长寿与健康的祝愿。
There are many legends about the Double Ninth Festival. The most famous one is about a man named Huan Jing, who was warned by a hermit to leave his home with his family and the villagers to avoid a calamity. He followed the advice and took his family to the mountains, where they celebrated the ninth day of the ninth month by climbing high and enjoying the beautiful autumn scenery. This tale reflects the festival's themes of protection and familial bonds.
关于重阳节的传说流传甚广，其中最著名的是关于桓景的故事。他在山中遇到一位隐士，得知即将发生灾难，于是在九月初九这一天攀登高山，带着家人和村民避难，并享受着美丽的高山秋色。这一故事体现了重阳节的保护和团圆的主题。
As the story spread, climbing high has become one of the most notable customs of the Double Ninth Festival. This activity symbolizes rising above challenges and aspirations for a long life. Families often hike together, enjoying the crisp autumn air and breathtaking views. The act of climbing not only exercises the body and reunites the family, but also represents a metaphorical ascent in life, encouraging individuals to overcome obstacles.
随着故事的流传，登高成为重阳节的重要习俗。人们会选择在这一天攀登山丘，象征着超越困难和追求长寿。家庭成员常常一起登山，享受秋日的清新空气和壮丽的风景。这一活动不仅锻炼身体，团聚家庭，也暗含着生活中的攀登，鼓励人们克服各种困难和障碍。
In addition, the Double Ninth Festival is particularly significant for honoring the elderly. In recent years, it has been designated as Elderly Day in China, a time to express gratitude and respect for the older generation. Communities organize various activities, such as health check-ups, cultural performances, and social gatherings to celebrate senior citizens. This focus on the elderly reflects the deep-rooted Confucian values that emphasize respect for one’s parents and elders.
重阳节在现代社会中尤为重要，因为它被指定为“老人节”。这一天，社会各界会通过组织健康检查、文艺表演和联欢活动，为老年人庆祝节日，表达对他们的感恩之情。这种对老年人的重视，反映了深厚的儒家文化，强调对长辈的尊敬和关爱。
In contemporary society, the Double Ninth Festival has seen a revival, with younger generations embracing its traditions while also adding modern twists. Urban celebrations often include cultural events, art exhibitions, and community service initiatives that encourage people to engage with the elderly and promote intergenerational connections.
在当代，重阳节的庆祝方式也在不断创新。年轻一代在继承传统的同时，也为节日增添了现代元素。在城市中，常见的庆祝活动包括文化展览、社区服务和志愿者活动，鼓励人们与老人互动，促进代际之间的联系。
Social media has also played a significant role in popularizing the festival, with many sharing their family gatherings, mountain climbing adventures, and traditional foods online. This digital engagement helps to spread awareness of the festival’s significance and fosters a sense of community among people, both locally and globally.
社交媒体的普及也帮助重阳节在年轻人中间传播，许多人会分享家庭聚会、登高的照片和传统食品。这种数字化的参与，让更多的人了解重阳节的意义，并在社区中形成了更强的凝聚力。
Author: Ding Songbin
Date: Oct 15, 2024
Photos: Pexels (Authorized)
