What does the custom of "shabby pots" mean?

"Breaking the old basin" is a traditional custom in China, which is usually held on Lunar New Year's Eve or the first day of the first month. This custom originated from ancient folklore and superstition, and has rich cultural connotation and symbolic significance.

According to legend, in ancient times, there was a fierce monster called Nian Beast, which came out to eat people and livestock in the village every New Year's Eve. The villagers found that monsters were afraid of fire, noise and red, so they began to use various methods to drive away Nian beasts, including smashing old pots.

The specific way to break the old pots is that on New Year's Eve or at midnight on the first day of the first month, villagers will gather in the central square or street of the village, each holding an empty ceramic pot and throwing it on the ground at the same time. This process is accompanied by loud sounds and broken sounds, forming a noisy and lively atmosphere.

The custom of breaking old pots has several meanings. First of all, the sound of smashing the old basin and the broken basin can produce huge sounds and sparks. These are the factors that Nian beast is afraid of, which can drive it out of the village and protect the safety of the villagers. Secondly, the process of dilapidated pots symbolizes the end of the old year and the beginning of the new year, which means to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, break bad luck and meet new hopes and opportunities. In addition, throwing away the old basin also means to ward off evil spirits and pray for a bumper harvest and peace.

With the passage of time, throwing old pots has gradually evolved into a folk entertainment activity. Nowadays, many places will hold old pot throwing competitions, which attract many tourists and spectators. During the competition, participants will smash pots in various ways to show their skills and strength. This kind of activity can not only inherit and carry forward traditional culture, but also increase people's sense of entertainment and participation.

Generally speaking, the custom of "smashing old pots" is an important part of China traditional culture, which contains rich symbolic significance and cultural connotation. By smashing pots, people can drive away bad luck, meet new hopes and opportunities, and at the same time increase the festive atmosphere and entertainment of the festival. This custom is not only a traditional way to celebrate, but also a kind of inheritance and expression of folk culture.