The 'Magical Full Moon' of the 'Chinese Moon Lantern Festival' on September 12th, 2011
"Under the spell of the mid-autumn full moon, lovers are drawn irresistibly together." If you have a sweetie, take a moment to enjoy the moonlight together. And if you don't have someone, this full moon is considered very magical. You can express your wishes to bring about someone special into your life. This is the night the ancient Chinese tradition celebrates the full moon of the 8th lunar month with the 'Moon and Lantern Festival.’
In 2011 this full moon falls on September 12th. September 12th is the official Lantern festival. How wonderful to celebrate this time as a "Night of love and well-rounded family togetherness.” All you need is a moon cake (sweets in a round shape, preferably with filling, if you can't get moon cakes) and a lantern.
Goddess Chang’e and the Jade Rabbit
According to tradition, the Jade Rabbit pounds medicine, together with the lady, Chang'e, for the gods. Others say that the Jade Rabbit is another embodiment of Chang'e herself. The dark areas at the top of the full moon may be construed as the figure of a rabbit. The animal's ears point to the upper right while, at the left, are two large circular areas representing its head and body. In this legend, three fairy sages transformed themselves into pitiful old men and begged for food from a fox, a monkey and a hare. The fox and the monkey both had food to give to the old men but the hare, empty-handed, jumped into a blazing fire to offer his own flesh instead. The sages were so touched by the hare's sacrifice and act of kindness that they let him live in the Moon Palace where he became the "Jade Rabbit.”
ENJOY! Lanterns in Chinese tradition represent guidance, and are considered "signposts for guests and spirits of ancestors, to guide them to the lunar celebrations".
Article written by Marina Lighthouse, courtesy of Feng Shui Shopper. Visit FengShuiShopper for all of your feng shui shopping needs! Thank you Marina!
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