In Taiwan, people follow many taboos on the first day of the lunar new year to ensure a lucky and prosperous year. This year, the first day of the new year falls on Wednesday, January 29 , according to the lunisolar calendar. The Lunar New Year lasts 15 days, and each day has its own unique customs and practices. Here are 10 common taboos that Taiwanese people always pay attention to on the first day of the new year.
1. Don’t cut or wash your hair
In Chinese, the word for “hair” (髮) sounds similar to the word for “fat” (發), which symbolizes wealth. Therefore, cutting your hair on New Year’s Day is considered to “cut off” your wealth. Similarly, washing your hair is considered to “wash away” your wealth.
2. Do not wash clothes, sweep the floor or take out the trash
The first day of the Lunar New Year is also considered the birthday of the Water God. Therefore, any action involving the use of water, such as washing clothes, is considered an insult to the deity. Sweeping the floor or taking out the trash is also considered to “throw away” wealth from the house.
3. Do not claim or leave debt
On the first day of the year, you should not ask for debt or let others ask for debt. This action can have a negative impact on both parties’ finances throughout the new year.
To avoid this, it’s best to pay off all debts before the old year ends, helping yourself to enter the new year lightly and without burdens.
4. Don’t sleep in or take a nap
Sleeping in on Tet not only makes you “passive” when guests come to wish you a happy new year, but is also considered a bad omen, leading to being “criticized” all year round.
In addition, according to folk beliefs:
- “Men sleeping in the fields will have a bad harvest, women sleeping in the kitchen will have a bad meal.”
Napping is also considered a symbol of laziness and can have a negative impact on one’s career.
5. Do not swear or say bad luck words
Swearing or using bad words on the first day of the year will make you prone to careless speech and conflicts throughout the year. Instead, use positive words and do good deeds to welcome a smooth and successful year.
6. Do not use sharp objects
Using scissors, knives, needles, thread or nail clippers during Tet is believed to “cut off” your fortune. Therefore, avoid using sharp objects during this time.
7. Don’t get angry
Losing your temper and getting angry will create negative energy and ruin the harmony of the new year. Instead, control your emotions and use positive words to start a happy new year full of positive energy.
8. Don’t turn off all the lights in the house
On New Year’s Eve and the first day of the Lunar New Year, people often leave the lights on all night. This symbolizes welcoming the new year with light, hope and luck that lasts throughout the year.
9. Don’t break things
Breaking something on Tet is considered a bad omen, signaling loss or rift in the family. If you accidentally break something, wrap the broken pieces in red paper or red cloth, then place it under the altar and say: “May you have a peaceful life” (歲歲平安) .
This saying means “every year is peaceful,” and replaces bad luck with a wish for well-being for the family.
10. Do not put odd numbers in red envelopes
New Year’s lucky money or gifts should contain even numbers such as NT$200, NT$600, NT$800, as even numbers symbolize abundance and good fortune.
Similarly, gifts should be given in pairs, such as boxes of cakes or fruit with 2, 6, 8, or 12 pieces. Odd numbers, especially the number 4 (pronounced like “tử” – death), are considered unlucky.
Conclusion
These taboos not only have spiritual significance but also represent the unique culture of Taiwanese people during the Lunar New Year. Adhering to these rules not only brings peace and luck but also preserves traditional identity in modern life.
