RED ENVELOP GIFTS UNDER CHINESE TRADITION

2007-05-02 10:04:19

( Hobbies )



Red envelop in Chinese tradition refers to monetary gift put in a red envelop that is given during weddings, New Year, birthdays and other holidays celebrated in the Chinese calendar. It is specifically red in color since it is the color of good luck based on Chinese belief. Lucky symbols decorate red envelops to wish people who receive it good luck and increase wealth.

Red envelop is given to children during New Year by their parents, grandparents, relatives and elder neighbors as gifts to wish them prosperity in the coming year. Some corporations are practicing giving year end bonuses enclosed in red envelops to stay attune with Chinese belief of good luck and prosperity.

Chinese belief further mandate that the amount of money contained in a red envelop must be in even number to show that you are wishing those you give it to good fortune and good life. Amount indicated in odd numbers represent the gift given during funerals among Chinese.

The amount of money put in a red envelop depends on the occasion that you will give it and to whom. The age of children that you will give it to determines the amount that you will put in red envelops. Younger children will receive smaller amount of money as gift while older children will receive higher amount of money. Monetary gift for teenagers must be substantial enough to buy them things they want.

Red envelop for weddings must contain an amount that is enough to buy a decent gift for the newly married couple. Usually well wishers who are close relatives of the couple put higher amount of money inside the red envelop.

The amount of money put in a red envelop for birthdays is not much important during birthdays since it is not much of an event compared to weddings or new years. Some Chinese bring actual gifts for birthday celebrants instead of red envelop.

The amount of money that you put in a red envelop must coincide with your financial abilities to provide monetary gift. It is not practical to give too much while you are financially constraint. The most important thing in giving red envelop is your inner wish of good luck to people you will give it.


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