Awakening of Insects is the third solar term in the twenty-four solar cycle, usually occurring on March 5th or 6th annually. At this time, the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 345°, the first spring thunder rumbles, awakening hibernating insects and animals from their slumber, hence the name "Awakening of Insects." It marks the formal beginning of mid-spring, presenting a vibrant scene of "spring thunder sounds, all things grow" in nature. In terms of phenology, Awakening of Insects exhibits vivid changes described as "peach trees bloom, orioles sing, and hawks transform into doves." In traditional agrarian civilization, this solar term signifies the critical point when spring plowing is in full swing, as the farming proverb states: "When Awakening of Insects arrives, the hoe never rests," emphasizing the urgency and importance of agricultural activities at this time.
Historically, the Awakening of Insects period nurtured rich customs that combined warding off evil with health preservation. The tradition of "Sacrificing to the White Tiger" was widely practiced among the people, where people would worship a paper tiger and smear its mouth with meat, symbolically preventing the tiger from harming people, praying to avoid disputes and malicious individuals. Correspondingly, the custom of "Beating the Scourge" (or "Beating the Little Man") prevails, particularly in Guangdong region, where people beat paper-cut figures to release pent-up emotions and dispel bad luck, expressing hopes for a smooth life. Additionally, "Eating Pears" is the most representative dietary custom of Awakening of Insects, as "pear" (li) shares a homophone with "departure," symbolizing distancing oneself from illness and disaster; meanwhile, the dry spring climate makes pears effective for moistening the lungs and relieving coughs, reflecting the wisdom of seasonal health preservation. These customs represent both responses to potential risks in natural changes and cultural expressions of ancient people regulating body and mind while praying for well-being.
By Yuan Ruichen
