Laba Festival: the Start of the Chinese New Year Celebration

The video discusses the Laba Festival, its historical origins, and its evolution over time. Initially a ritual to honor agricultural deities, it later merged with Buddhist traditions celebrating Buddha's enlightenment. The festival is marked by making Laba Congee, a dish with symbolic ingredients. The video also reflects on the loss of traditional culture during the Cultural Revolution and aims to inspire viewers by sharing traditional Chinese values.

What marks the beginning of Chinese New Year preparations?

• Laba Festival

• Mid-Autumn Festival

• Spring Festival

• Dragon Boat Festival

What was the original purpose of the 'Law Day' ritual?

• To celebrate the harvest

• To honor agricultural deities

• To mark the emperor's birthday

• To commemorate a historical battle

Who is associated with the story of enlightenment that influenced the Laba Festival?

• Confucius

• Laozi

• Shakyamuni

• Mencius

What does the term 'Laba' refer to in the context of the festival?

• The 7th month and the 7th day

• The 12th month and the 8th day

• The 1st month and the 15th day

• The 5th month and the 5th day

What is the main custom associated with the Laba Festival today?

• Dragon boat racing

• Making and eating Laba congee

• Performing lion dances

• Lighting lanterns

During which dynasty did the Laba Festival and Law Day merge into one holiday?

• Tang Dynasty

• Song Dynasty

• Qing Dynasty

• Ming Dynasty

What is the significance of the 'Eight Treasures' in Laba congee?

• They symbolize the seven treasures of Buddhism

• They signify the eight directions

• They represent the eight deities

• They are a tribute to the emperor