In Chinese mythology, the world was created by Nǚwā (女娲). Sheep were created on the 4th day.
- Lunar date
January 4th (正月初四 / zhēng yuè chū sì)
- Solar (Gregorian) date
February 15th, 2021
- Activities & traditions
The god of wealth is prayed to on this day. Offerings include three types of meat, fruits and wine. At midnight, people will welcome the god in by opening the windows and eating and drinking until daybreak.
- Food
The welcoming of five gods (接五路 / jiē wǔ lù) requires three tables of food. The first has kumquats and sugarcanes for a sweet life and successful road; cakes are on the second table. The third table has the main course of whole pig, whole chicken, whole fish and soup.
- Superstitions & beliefs
It’s forbidden to slaughter sheep on this day. Fair weather is a sign that the sheep will be healthy this year and the family will have a bountiful harvest.