Long ago, the Emperor of Heaven sent a monster, the Nian, to destroy the world on New Year because he was angry that people weren’t taking care of their animals properly. Everyone was very frightened. Each family had a farewell feast on New Year’s Eve and waited through the night for the world to end.
Finally, day came and there was still no sign of the monster. The people realized the Emperor of Heaven had forgiven them and rushed outside to say congratulations to all their friends and neighbours. On New Year’s Day, people still greet one another in this way, congratulating them on surviving into the new year.
Long ago, the Emperor of Heaven sent a monster, the Nian, to destroy the world on New Year because he was angry that people weren’t taking care of their animals properly. Everyone was very frightened. Each family had a farewell feast on New Year’s Eve and waited through the night for the world to end.
Finally, day came and there was still no sign of the monster. The people realized the Emperor of Heaven had forgiven them and rushed outside to say congratulations to all their friends and neighbours. On New Year’s Day, people still greet one another in this way, congratulating them on surviving into the new year.