As the Chinese New Year is being celebrated, Kevin has mentioned the happy tradition of receiving Ang Pow, little red envelopes with money. These envelopes are also given during other celebrations, such as weddings. The color red symbolizes good luck; a white envelope would be used for a funeral. There is also meaning attached to numbers--8 is a lucky number, while 4 is very unlucky because the pronunciation sounds like death. Usually the amount in Ang Pow is an even number, while the amount given at a funeral is an odd number.
The Malay Muslims have adapted the tradition except they use the color green, which is associated with Islam.
Happy Chinese New Year, everyone!
One of my friends that adopted two kids from China did a really cute celebration with her kids and gave them the little red envelopes. Thinking we might do something next year.
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