The Origin, History, and Legends of Qingming Festival

The Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a traditional Chinese holiday that falls on April 4 or 5 according to the lunar calendar. It is one of the most important festivals in China, with a history of over 2,500 years.
**Origin and History:**
The Qingming Festival has its roots in the ancient Chinese practice of honoring ancestors. It is believed that during this time, the spirits of the deceased return to their earthly homes. Therefore, it is an occasion for families to pay their respects to their ancestors by cleaning tombs, offering food, and burning paper money.
The festival has its origins in the Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BC). According to legend, King Zhou of the Shang Dynasty was a tyrant, and his son, King Cheng, overthrew him. To prevent the spirits of the tyrant from causing harm, King Cheng ordered that tombs be cleaned and offerings be made to the spirits. This practice gradually evolved into the Qingming Festival.
**Legends and Stories:**
1. **The Story of Jie Zitui:**
One of the most famous legends associated with the Qingming Festival is the story of Jie Zitui. Jie Zitui was a loyal minister who sacrificed himself for the sake of his king. After his death, the king realized his mistake and regretted not having honored him while he was alive. To make amends, the king ordered that Jie Zitui's tomb be cleaned and offerings be made to his spirit. This story has become a symbol of filial piety and loyalty.
2. **The Legend of the Qingming Festival:**
Another legend tells of a poor scholar named Zhang Yanyuan who was studying for the imperial examinations. One day, he met an old man who gave him a peach pit and told him to plant it. The peach pit grew into a magnificent tree, and the old man revealed himself to be the God of Death. He warned Zhang that he would die soon, but he would be reborn if he could avoid the Qingming Festival. Zhang managed to avoid the festival by hiding in a cave, and the God of Death honored his determination, allowing him to live another day.
3. **The Story of the Qingming Rain:**
There is also a legend about the Qingming Rain. It is said that during the Qingming Festival, the rain is a sign of the gods' tears for the departed spirits. This is why the weather during the Qingming Festival is often unpredictable and can range from sunny to rainy.
The Qingming Festival is a time for families to come together, honor their ancestors, and remember the past. It is a time of reflection and respect, and it is celebrated with great enthusiasm across China and in Chinese communities around the world.
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