The origin of Qingming Festival

The two characters "Qingming" originally referred only to the name of a festival. It is stated in the ancient Chinese astronomical calendar texts: This is saying that fifteen days after the Spring Equinox comes the Qingming Festival. Why is it called Qingming? It's because the weather is fresh and clear at this time of year. The scenery is bright and clear. Qingming initially was just an solar term. It became a festival commemorating ancestors. Related to a legend of Wakkanai season More than two thousand years ago, during the Spring and Autumn period There was a country called the State of Jin. The prince of Jin, Chong'er, often helped the people. But he was framed by his wicked stepmother. Poor Prince Chong'er and several loyal ministers Escaped together from the State of Jin They ran and ran. Fled to a desolate place The young master is exhausted and starving. Fainted on the ground At this moment, one of the ministers Through this, it is inferred A bowl of steaming hot meat soup was brought over. He said Lord Chong'er's Son You drank the soup. You'll have strength then. After Lord Chong drank the meat soup I'm finally regaining my strength gradually. He said This meat soup is absolutely delicious. The other ministers laughed and said These are all due to the merit of this promotion. Or is he the smartest after all? Suddenly, Prince Shujiro I saw his thigh bleeding profusely as he pushed. He immediately understood. Where did that meat broth come from? He was moved and used this as an excuse to justify it. I will surely repay you properly in the future. Later Gongzi Chong, with everyone's help, Overcoming countless difficulties I have finally become the ruler of Jin State. Everyone called him Duke Wen of Jin. Lord Wen of Jin rewarded those loyal ministers. yet uniquely omitted using this to push Someone immediately reminded him. Thus, his loyalty is so profound. Why wasn't he rewarded? Lord Wen of Jin felt deep remorse. Wish to bestow upon him a high-ranking official position as a reward. But Thus, I don't want to hold office. Then He moved to a mountain with his mother. Live a quiet life That mountain is very large and extensive. Jin Wen Gong spent a great deal of time Many people are looking for this to promote it. Yet there was no news from any of them. Lord Wen of Jin said with great vexation, Mount Mian is so huge. Where on earth am I supposed to find him? Then Someone told Duke Wen of Jin, I've been unable to find him all along. Let's try a different approach. Lord Wen of Jin asked What method Come on, tell me! A minister who upholds propriety and righteousness says We can ignite the mountain from three directions. Then leave one direction unignited. That means it will definitely come out from that exit. Lord Wen of Jin arrived at Mianshan. Make people start setting the mountain on fire The huge fire almost burned down the entire mountain. The little animals were all frightened and ran out in a panic. Yet I did not see the shadow of the one who pushed. After the fire went out Jin Wen Gong sent someone to urgently search for the opportunity to advance. Finally Beneath a charred willow tree Found a building that isn't moving; thus, inferred With his mother Jin Wen Gong deeply regretted and felt great sorrow. He kept bursting into loud sobs. The attendant of Duke Wen of Jin discovered that there was a cavity in the willow tree A piece of fabric for clothing It says a poem above. Cutting flesh to offer to my lord, with a heart devoted to loyalty. I wish my lord may always remain clear-minded and wise. By this inference, it means If you want to repay me Be a righteous and wise ruler. Lord Wen of Jin deeply regretted mistakenly burning Ji Ci. To commemorate this promotion February 23rd of the lunar calendar This day was established as the Cold Food Festival. On this day, the people throughout the country are not allowed to light fires or cook meals. Can only eat cold food The following year February 24 On this day, Duke Wen of Jin was paying respects at the gravesite. Discover the willow tree that had been burned Miraculously, he came back to life. He gently bent down a willow branch. Wrapped around its own head Later, Duke Wen of Jin designated the day after the Cold Food Festival. Set as Qingming Festival The common people throughout the world also followed the example of Duke Wen of Jin. Begin the grave sweeping by folding willow branches This custom has continued to this day.