An Ancient Festival Rooted in the Hearts of Xihe's Women
In the lush valleys of Xihe County (西和县) , nestled along the banks of the Western Han River, an age-old tradition comes alive each year between the last day of the sixth lunar month and the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. The Begging Festival is a vibrant celebration of craftsmanship, love, and hope. Its long duration, large scale, high participation, and complete preservation of folk customs are rare in China. This festival is deeply rooted in the folklore and customs of the region, and its cultural connotation is even more soothing. It speaks of the love of nature, the filial piety of the mother and the son, and the awe of all things.
Unlike many other festivals that have faded into obscurity or transformed beyond recognition, the Begging Festival of Xihe has preserved its essence. It's a week-long event marked by songs, dances, and various traditional activities that bring together the young and the old, the past and the present.
Crafting Futures with Needles and Thread
During the festival, young women in Xihe participate in various activities to pray for a happy life in the future. The lyrics of ancient songs sung during the festival also revolve around the art of needlework, which is a skill that has been handed down from generation to generation. Whether it is embroidery or creating practical items such as clothing and bedding, it not only shows the unique sewing skills of the girls in Xihe County but also enables many farmers in Xihe County to embark on the road of prosperity.
The festival is also a time for socializing, making new friends, and deepening bonds with old ones. In the past, the Begging Festival was often regarded as a matchmaking festival for men and women in the past. The ancient songs they sang during the festival reflect the dual desire for needlework skills and love, and the lyrics also hint at the girls' expectations and longing for love.
The older women, many of whom have celebrated the Begging Festival since their youth, play a crucial role in guiding the younger generation. They pass down not only their skills but also their wisdom, teaching the girls about patience, perseverance, and the importance of tradition. For these women, the festival is a bittersweet reminder of the passage of time. The songs they sing are filled with memories of their youth, of dreams realized and lost, and of the unchanging rhythms of life.
A Festival of Joy, Reflection, and Farewell
As the festival draws to a close, the mood shifts from exuberance to reflection. The final night, marked by the ritual of "Sending Off the Clever Goddess," is tinged with melancholy. The young women, who have spent the past week immersed in the festival’s activities, must now bid farewell to the goddess who has watched over them. They gather by the river, singing songs of parting, their voices mingling with the sounds of the water and the night.
The Begging Festival is more than just a celebration of tradition; it's a celebration of life itself. It's about embracing the present while honoring the past, finding joy in the simple things, and finding strength in the face of life's challenges. For the women of Xihe, the festival is a reminder that they are part of something greater and that their lives are woven into the rich tapestry of their community's history.
In the end, the Begging Festival is a testament to the enduring power of tradition and how it shapes our lives and our identities. It's a celebration of the bonds that connect us, of the dreams that inspire us, and of the memories that sustain us. As the festival comes to a close and the last song is sung, the women of Xihe return to their daily lives, carrying with them the spirit of the Begging Festival, a spirit that will continue to guide them through the years to come.
