The Year of the Ox
January 26th marks the beginning of the Year of the Ox and the most important holiday in China (it is observed in numerous other places and in countries with holidays that are tied culturally, e.g. Tet in Vietnam). The day takes place yearly between the end of the fall harvest and the beginning of spring. In China the holiday is also referred to as the “Spring Festival,” which demonstrates its root in agricultural harvest and the four seasons. Prosperity, future-orientation, security and public order are key values reinforced during this time of year.
A Xinhua article prominently displays President Hu Jintao’s visiting with ordinary people, as he travels around China inspecting and ensuring the prosperity of the country’s industry for the year. The renewal and focus associated with the holiday are recurring characteristics of Chinese culture. It is also one of the biggest days for travel in China, as family members reunite in their hometowns to be with family and remember ancestors. There is an immense emphasis on filial piety and family ethics. Reuniting serves as an expression of gratitude and a strengthening of family bonds.
The BBC reports a marked decline in positive feeling this year for conspicuous, economic reasons. The Year of the Ox is usually characterized by “calm, fortitude and success through toil.” The Chinese Diaspora is widespread, so people around the world are likely to be in touch with the holiday. The day is viewed as a public holiday in many countries outside of China. It’s interesting to know that the calendar on which this day is based was formulated millenia ago by a famous Chinese sovereign, Huangdi. Depending on the scholar, the “Chinese Year” in 2009 could be either 4706, 4707 or 4646, according to Wikipedia.
Happy Year of the Ox from the RW3 staff!
