"Ly Ruou Mung," also known as the New Year's Toast, is a traditional Vietnamese custom that holds cultural significance during the celebration of Tet, the Vietnamese New Year. Here are some interesting facts about this tradition:
Symbolism: The act of toasting during Tet symbolizes unity, respect, and good wishes for the upcoming year. It's a gesture of goodwill and a way to express gratitude and hope.
Traditional Beverages: The toast is often made with traditional Vietnamese alcoholic beverages like rice wine or liquor. The choice of drink may vary among regions and families.
Respect for Elders: The younger members of the family initiate the toast, expressing their respect for the elders. It's a way of acknowledging the wisdom and guidance of the older generation.
Wishing Prosperity: During the New Year's Toast, people commonly express wishes for prosperity, health, happiness, and success in the coming year. It's a time for positive affirmations and well-wishing.
Ceremonial Practices: The toast is often part of larger ceremonial practices during Tet. Families may have specific rituals, including offering prayers to ancestors, decorating homes, and preparing special meals.
Community Celebrations: While the New Year's Toast is often a family affair, communities also come together for larger celebrations. Public events, parades, and firework displays are common during Tet.
Lunar New Year Timing: Tet is based on the lunar calendar, so the date varies each year. It usually falls between late January and mid-February, marking the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.
Decorations and Symbols: Homes are adorned with various decorations symbolizing good fortune and luck. Traditional symbols like the peach blossom, kumquat trees, and the five-fruit tray are common during Tet.
Gift-Giving: Tet is a time for exchanging gifts as a gesture of goodwill. Red envelopes, called "li xi," containing money, are often given to children and unmarried individuals to bring luck and prosperity.
Cleaning and Purification: Before Tet, homes are thoroughly cleaned to remove any bad luck associated with the previous year. It's a time for purification and starting fresh.
Understanding the cultural context of Ly Ruou Mung provides insight into the rich traditions and customs associated with the Vietnamese New Year celebration.