(Beijing Weekend)
Updated: 2007-02-19 10:16

Rituals

To ensure a prosperous new year, there are many rituals to follow, according to tradition.

Knives and scissors are forbidden to be used from the first day to 15th day in the lunar new year. It is considered that touching those tools can cut happiness in the family for the whole year. So, if you need a haircut, you should get it done before the lunar new year or wait until the end of the festivities.

With everyone sharing a luxurious dinner together, fruit peel, nut hulls, and splashes of wine are likely to cover the floor. But clean freaks be advised if you sweep your floor before the second day, tradition has it that you are sweeping away good fortune.

Other rituals to be aware of:

*Be careful not to break any porcelain or glass. If you break something, immediately say suisui ping'an (every year peaceful), to turn a bad sign into a blessing.

*Married women should not have the family reunion dinner with her immediate family because once she is married she is no longer considered a family member. A married woman should visit her parents on the second day of the lunar new year.

*Don't go outside on the first day of the lunar new year. That day is considered as a special time for family reunion.

*Don't say bad words, especially the character si (death). And don't get angry.

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