China
2022.06.05 16:06 GMT+8

Grain in Ear: A pun on 'Busy Planting' in Chinese

Updated 2022.06.06 12:50 GMT+8
CGTN

This Monday marks Mang Zhong, or "Grain in Ear" in English, the ninth solar term of the year and the third one of the summer on the Chinese lunar calendar. / CGTN Xing Cheng

Grain in Ear, also known as Mang Zhong, begins on June 6 this year. The arrival of Grain in Ear signifies the ripening of crops such as barley and wheat. It is also a busy period for farmers.

What cultural ceremonies take place on this day? Let's check it out ↓↓↓

The word Mang Zhong is a pun on "busy planting" in Chinese, which is also an accurate description of farmers’ lives during this period.

"Busy" is the keyword. From the north to the south, farmers have been busy planting various crops, according to the conditions of their fields.

It's not a sentimental ceremony, however, as the flowers of the summer season are ready to bloom.

Grain in Ear is widely known and was recorded in the classic novel "A Dream of the Red Mansions" by Cao Xueqin during the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). The book is one of the best-known classics in Chinese culture.

That's all for Grain in Ear. The next solar term is the Summer Solstice. On this day, summer is a hot and delightful time of the year often associated with rest and recreation, so stay tuned!

Calligraphy Social Influencer: Qiu Yu

Video Editor and Script Writer: Qiu Yu

Cover Designers: Jia Jieqiong, Xing Cheng

Copy Editors: Mark and Ellie

Chief Editor: Zhang Xiaohe

Executive Producer: Liu Yuqi

Supervisor: Zhang Shilei

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