A Discussion on Chinese Customs

Author: Qi Rushan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-12-01
Features: The beauty of old Chinese customs is truly nostalgic. In the past, education was far less widespread than today, and the legal system was even less strict. However, virtues such as diligence, simplicity, and integrity in customs were far superior to those of today. Thus, this book was written. Qi Rushan states at the outset: "I want to write about the good old customs for everyone to see. Not only will it be very interesting, but it may also help to remedy the frivolous atmosphere of today." The words are sharp, yet sincere. Indeed, the New Year celebrations, house-building, weddings, gift-giving, and other scenes described by Qi Rushan are particularly amusing, allowing readers to enjoy them freely; his works like Good Customs in Farming and Business Integrity demand careful reflection to understand how "customs" become "culture"! Qi Rushan was deeply concerned about the role of customs as culture, making it the core theme of the "Miscellaneous Writings" volume, which aims to "educate through entertainment." Delving into Chinese painting, Chinese opera, Chinese women, and other topics, it taps into the national aesthetic psychology, effectively turning cultural education into a practical experience. A Discussion on Chinese Cuisine is included as a grand custom centered around the idea of "food as heaven." It teaches people to cook while allowing them to savor the experience, evoking a sense of transcendence when inspiration strikes.