Lunar New Year is one of the most significant celebrations in many Asian cultures, particularly in China, Vietnam, Korea, and other countries influenced by Chinese traditions. It is a time of reunion, reflection, and renewal, marked by vibrant festivities, ancestral honor, and cultural symbolism. Among the many traditional foods served during this auspicious time, fish and tangerines hold special significance due to their association with prosperity, abundance, and good fortune.
In this article, we will explore the cultural, linguistic, and historical reasons behind the belief that fish and tangerines bring luck during the Lunar New Year. We will delve into their symbolic meanings, the ways they are prepared and presented, and their deep-rooted importance in Asian customs.
The Symbolism of Fish in Lunar New Year Celebrations
Fish plays a crucial role in Lunar New Year feasts across many Asian cultures. The Chinese word for fish, “鱼” (yú), is a homophone for the word “余” (yú), which means surplus or abundance. This linguistic connection forms the basis of the belief that eating fish during the New Year will bring wealth and prosperity in the coming year.
Abundance and Prosperity
The phrase “年年有余” (nián nián yǒu yú) translates to “May you have abundance year after year.” Since “yú” sounds the same as fish, it reinforces the tradition of serving fish at the New Year’s Eve dinner, signifying financial stability and success.
How Fish Is Served
Fish is typically served whole, symbolizing unity, completeness, and a prosperous beginning and end. It is often steamed and garnished with scallions, soy sauce, and ginger to enhance its flavor while maintaining its natural taste.
Additionally, different types of fish have their own specific meanings:
Carp (野鱼 yě yú): Associated with career success and rising status, as the Chinese word for “carp” sounds similar to “profit.”
Catfish (龙鱼 lóng yú): Represents wealth and prosperity due to its association with the phrase “有餐” (yǒu cān), meaning “to have meals,” implying abundance of food.
Silver Pomfret (银鳗 yín chèn): Symbolizes wealth due to its silver color, which resembles money.
Customs Related to Eating Fish
Certain customs dictate how fish should be eaten to maximize luck:
Leaving Some Fish Uneaten: Some families intentionally leave a portion of the fish uneaten to symbolize having extra fortune carried over to the next year.
Proper Placement: The head of the fish should be pointed toward the eldest or most respected family member at the table to show reverence and wish them good fortune.
Avoid Flipping the Fish: In some regions, particularly among fishermen, flipping the fish is avoided as it symbolizes a capsized boat, which is considered bad luck.
The Significance of Tangerines and Oranges
Tangerines, oranges, and other citrus fruits are also integral to Lunar New Year traditions due to their bright color, symbolism of wealth, and linguistic associations with good fortune.
Linguistic Significance
The word for “tangerine” (柠檬 jú) sounds similar to the word for “luck” (吉 jí) in Chinese, making it an auspicious fruit to have during the New Year. Additionally, “orange” (橙 chéng) sounds like “success” (成 chéng), reinforcing positive associations.
Symbol of Wealth and Prosperity
Tangerines and oranges are often given as gifts or displayed in homes to attract good fortune. Their round shape and golden color resemble coins, further linking them to wealth and financial success.
How Tangerines and Oranges Are Used in Lunar New Year Celebrations
Gift-Giving Tradition: It is common to present tangerines in pairs when visiting friends or family during the New Year, as pairs symbolize harmony and balance.
Decorative Use: Many families place bowls of oranges and tangerines around the home, especially near entrances, to welcome prosperity.
Ritual Offerings: In many households, these fruits are offered on altars to honor ancestors and seek their blessings for the coming year.
Comparing Fish and Tangerines: Why They Are Essential for Good Luck
Both fish and tangerines are considered symbols of good fortune, but their significance stems from different aspects:
Fish represents abundance, surplus, and prosperity, emphasizing financial stability and career success.
Tangerines symbolize wealth, luck, and happiness, fostering general well-being and harmony.
Together, these foods create a well-rounded representation of prosperity and luck, which is why they are consistently included in Lunar New Year celebrations.
The Cultural Impact Beyond China
While these traditions are deeply rooted in Chinese culture, they have influenced other Asian Lunar New Year celebrations:
Vietnam (Tết Festival): Fish is also a popular dish during Tết, and kumquats, similar to tangerines, are used as decorations to bring luck.
Korea (Seollal): While citrus fruits are less prominent, fish is often served to wish for prosperity.
Japan (Shōgatsu): Although Japan follows the Gregorian calendar for New Year celebrations, fish (especially herring roe) is eaten for fertility and good fortune.
Conclusion
Fish and tangerines are not just delicious components of the Lunar New Year feast but are deeply embedded in cultural traditions that emphasize abundance, prosperity, and luck. Their significance is a testament to the importance of symbolism in Asian customs, where food plays a vital role in expressing hopes for a prosperous future.
By continuing to honor these traditions, families pass down centuries-old beliefs that reinforce unity, gratitude, and optimism for the year ahead. Whether through a perfectly steamed fish or a bowl of bright tangerines, these foods serve as powerful reminders of the blessings and opportunities that Lunar New Year brings.
