What did folding willow mean in ancient times?

The custom of "folding willows" has been passed down in the history of China for thousands of years. In ancient times, folding willows was often used as a symbol to express the feelings between lovers. Especially in spring, when the willow branches are green, people begin to fold them one by one to show their love. In ancient poetry, you can often see the description of folding willows, such as Bai Juyi's "Farewell to Ancient Grass" in the Tang Dynasty, "I advise you to make more wine and go out to Yangguan for no reason." Send Gu Yuan away, and I will break my willow and never look back. "That poem.

Besides expressing love, there is other meaning in the history of China. For example, in wartime, soldiers often use willow branches to mark their camps, indicating their belonging. At the same time, folding willows is also considered to have the magical effect of exorcising evil spirits and enhancing auspiciousness, so some people will plant willows at home to resolve the ominous atmosphere.

Today, although the custom of folding willows has gradually faded, there are still some places that still maintain this ancient tradition. For example, Zhenjiang City, Jiangsu Province holds a grand folding willow culture festival every spring, attracting a large number of tourists to watch and participate. This traditional cultural activity not only shows the unique charm of China traditional culture, but also becomes the carrier of cultural inheritance, allowing more people to understand and experience the cultural heritage left by their ancestors.