The Chinese red envelope is commonly known as hong bao in Mandarin and lai see in Cantonese. These vibrant red packets, typically filled with money, are a cherished tradition, especially popular among children during festive occasions like Chinese New Year.
Understanding the Chinese Red Envelope (Hong Bao / Lai See)
Chinese red envelopes are a significant cultural symbol, particularly recognized during the Lunar New Year celebrations. For children, receiving these shiny packets filled with money on New Year's Day is one of the most anticipated and favorite traditions. Kids of all ages quickly learn the words for these special envelopes, understanding their importance and the joy they bring.
The names for the red envelope vary slightly depending on the Chinese dialect:
| Term | Language | Pinyin/Romanization | Literal Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 红包 | Mandarin | hong bao | Red Packet |
| 利是 | Cantonese | lai see | Lucky Money / Red Packet |
While "hong bao" is widely recognized, particularly in mainland China and among Mandarin speakers, "lai see" is the common term used in Hong Kong, Macau, and among Cantonese-speaking communities worldwide.
Cultural Significance and Occasions
The tradition of giving red envelopes goes beyond just presenting money; it's a gesture of:
- Good luck and blessings: The red color symbolizes good fortune, prosperity, and happiness in Chinese culture, while the money inside is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good wishes for the year ahead.
- Protection: Historically, the money was sometimes called "ya sui qian" (压岁钱), meaning "money to suppress sui," referring to a mythical beast or evil spirit that preyed on children on New Year's Eve.
- Passing on well wishes: It's a way for elders and married couples to bestow good fortune upon younger, unmarried individuals.
Red envelopes are not exclusively for Chinese New Year. They are also traditionally given on various other auspicious occasions, including:
- Weddings: Given to the bride and groom as a blessing for their new life together.
- Birthdays: Especially for elders, as a token of respect and wish for longevity.
- Graduations: To congratulate and wish success to graduates.
- Baby showers/births: To welcome a new baby and wish health and happiness.
The amount of money inside typically depends on the relationship between the giver and the recipient, and it's customary to give new, crisp banknotes, often in even numbers, avoiding the number four (四), which sounds similar to "death" (死) in Mandarin.
To learn more about the broader context of these traditions, you can explore general information about Chinese New Year traditions.
