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Dong Chi Season falls in the midst of winter and is one of the 24 solar terms of the year. So, when is Dong Chi Season, and what are its distinct features? Explore this article to delve into the concept, meaning, and traditional customs of Dong Chi Season.
Join us in exploring this article to gain deeper insights into the concept, significance, and ancient customs of Dong Chi Season.
1. What is Dong Chi Season?
Dong Chi Season belongs to the winter season among the 24 solar terms
Dong Chi Season ('dong' means winter, 'chi' means extreme point) signifies the midpoint of winter. This solar term commences on the 21st or 22nd of December in the Gregorian calendar each year. It concludes on the 5th or 6th of January, transitioning to the Small Cold term.
During the Winter Solstice, the sun is positioned at 270 degrees in the Northern Hemisphere. This means the sun is at its highest point in the southern sky (at noon).
Invite readers to explore the following features:
- Convert the Gregorian calendar to the lunar calendar
- Convert the lunar calendar to the Gregorian calendar
2. Characteristics of the Winter Solstice
The Winter Solstice is the result of Earth's movement
As the Winter Solstice approaches, residents in the Northern Hemisphere will experience very short daytime hours and long nights. Conversely, those in the Southern Hemisphere will witness long daytime hours and short nights.
In the northern part of our country, the Winter Solstice brings about a chilly and freezing weather. The sky is often filled with mist, gloomy, and lacking in light.
3. The significance of the Winter Solstice in Feng Shui
The Winter Solstice holds great importance in terms of astrology and Feng Shui
According to the principles of Feng Shui astrology, the Winter Solstice corresponds to the Revival hexagram in the I Ching. This hexagram symbolizes recovery, development, and prosperity.
The Winter Solstice typically falls in the 11th lunar month, also known as the month of the Rat. Those born in this month are believed to possess intelligence, deep understanding, but may exhibit weaknesses, tenderness, or cunning if lacking in self-cultivation.
Individuals with a Water element in their astrological chart during the Winter Solstice experience smooth careers, abundant luck, and significant success. They enjoy financial prosperity, stable health, and lead worry-free lives.
Those with a Water element in their destiny should pay more attention to their health; financial and career aspects may be influenced. Especially for those venturing into business or starting a new enterprise, the initial phase may pose challenges. However, there's no need to overly worry as this situation is not prolonged.
Winter Solstice is also suitable for religious rituals and memorial services. However, certain activities should be avoided on this day, including engagement ceremonies, weddings, seeking blessings, praying for oneself, exorcism, medical procedures, aesthetic enhancements, grand openings, signing contracts, business transactions, warehouse openings, and product shipments. Construction-related activities such as groundbreaking, kitchen renovations, excavation, and cemetery work should also be avoided during this time.
4. Traditional customs of the Winter Solstice
Tangyuan, floating dumplings, or boat-shaped rice cakes are popular dishes consumed during the Winter Solstice
Winter Solstice is a significant festival marked on the lunar calendar. Initially chosen for celestial rites, it later evolved into a widespread tradition of exchanging gifts on Winter Solstice. It's also an occasion for children to express gratitude and celebrate their parents and elders.
During this period, the nation pauses official duties for relaxation, and people come together to enjoy music and performances. Gradually, Winter Solstice has become an important festival, preserved through the ages.
The Chinese community in Vietnam also observes this tradition. On Winter Solstice, they pay homage to their ancestors, grandparents, and enjoy tangyuan, floating dumplings, or boat-shaped rice cakes as a symbol of family unity and reunion.
On the flip side, many countries around the world host vibrant traditional festivals during this period. Examples include Festivus, Kwanzaa, Yalda, Saturnalia, Hanukkah, Huma Light... Particularly, the Christmas celebration in the Christian faith coincides with the Winter Solstice timeframe.
