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Updated: Feb 17

Do you know that there are dedicated functions and significance attached to the first 10 days of the Chinese New Year ?


Day 1 is the Day of Rooster and most traditional families will refrain from consuming chicken. Now that you know it, no curry chicken on the first day !


Day 2 belongs to the Pig and therefore, it is not auspicious to consume pork on the second day.


Day 3 is Goat's Day and no one should be stewing mutton on this day or bad fortunes shall befall you.


Day 4 goes to the Dog and so, all Dogs on this day has an additional special day to add to their respective birthdays or anniversaries. Dogs shall be getting extra care and treats on this day.


Day 5 is dedicated to the Ox. No dishes involving beef will be served. The fifth day also coincides with the invitation of the God of Wealth into the homes.


Day 6 is known as Horse Day because it was the day that the Mother Goddess created the horse.


Interestingly, another significance to Day 6 of Chinese New Year is that it is also the day of thrashing rubbish accumulated over the last five days of celebrations. It is also known as the day to get rid of the 'Poor Devil' (送穷日). In the past, people cleaned up the house in full force, fire crackers, beat drums and light up their homes to get rid of poor tidings.


Day 7 is Humanities Day or Everybody's birthday (人日). In honor of homeless and people without families, this is the day families will open up their homes to invite the less fortunate to join them for a meal.


Day 8 is Grain Day (谷日), the significance of which is largely unknown but according to sources, the day to pay homage to good harvests and future hopes.


Day 9 is the Day of Heaven when it offers another opportunity to pray to the Jade Emperor for blessings and good fortune. Regarded as the Supreme Deity who governs the universe and commands the three realms of life.


Day 10 is Earth Day and is reserved for the worship of the Earth God who takes care of all things earthly.

It is said that the God of Wealth blesses you in all his glory on the fifth day of the Chinese New Year.


Perhaps the most auspicious time of the year to invite the God of Wealth falls on the turn of the morning on 14th February 2024. In the early morning hours between 1.00am and 2.00am shall be the most optimal window of opportunity to make your wishes for the whole year.




Besides the basic preparations, one could add to the offering table, apples, dried persimmon, dragon fruit and red dates. It will also be nice to add a vase of red or pink lilies and additional goodies such as candies, sweets and peanuts. All these, adding to the homophones of ensuring one prays for a year filled with harmony, good health, success, progress, financial gratifications and happiness. It is also appropriate that one cleans and dresses up in lighter colored attire before the ritual.


This practice of inviting the God of Wealth applies to all around the world and you should observe this in your respective local times. There is no religious attachment and not tied to any one specific faith or belief.

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