Ancient Chinese Fasting Rituals and Practices
10·7 Qi (1), there must be bright clothes (2), cloth. Qi must change food (3), and live must move (4).
[Annotation]
(1) Qi: the same as Zhai.
(2) Mingyi: a bathrobe worn after bathing before the fast.
(3) Bianshi: changing one’s usual diet. Refers to not drinking alcohol or eating things with pungent flavors such as onions and garlic.
(4) Ju bixianzuo: refers to moving from the inner room to the outer room and not sharing a room with one’s wife and concubines.
Translation:
When fasting and bathing, one must have a bathrobe made of cloth. When fasting, one must change one’s usual diet and move to a different place to live (not sharing a room with one’s wife and concubines).
Fasting has been an essential part of various cultures and religions worldwide, including ancient China. The practice of fasting in ancient China wasn’t merely about abstaining from food; it was a holistic approach that involved meticulous rituals and lifestyle changes. Let’s delve into the intricacies of ancient Chinese fasting rituals and their cultural significance.
The Essence of Fasting in Ancient China
In ancient Chinese culture, fasting, referred to as “齐” (qí), was a sacred practice often undertaken before significant events or ceremonies. The rituals associated with fasting were detailed and purposeful, emphasizing purity and discipline.
Ritual Attire: The “明衣” (Ming Yi)
One of the critical aspects of fasting was the attire. After a ritualistic bath, it was customary to wear “明衣” (ming yi), a special robe made of plain cloth. This garment symbolized purity and was worn to show respect and devotion. The emphasis on wearing simple, unadorned clothing underscored the importance of humility and the renouncement of vanity during the fasting period.
Dietary Changes: Abstinence from Stimulating Foods
During fasting, it was essential to modify one’s diet significantly. This practice, known as “变食” (bian shi), involved abstaining from foods and beverages that could be stimulating or impure. Items such as alcohol, garlic, and onions were avoided. This dietary change was believed to cleanse the body and mind, allowing individuals to achieve a higher state of spiritual awareness and readiness for the ceremonies to come.
Living Arrangements: Relocation for Purity
Another notable practice was “居必迁坐” (ju bi qian zuo), which required individuals to change their living arrangements. Those undertaking the fast would move from their inner quarters to an outer room, and abstain from sharing a bed with their spouses. This separation was meant to maintain a state of physical and mental purity, free from distractions and temptations.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
The fasting rituals in ancient China were more than just physical acts; they were deeply intertwined with the spiritual and cultural ethos of the time. These practices were believed to purify the body and soul, making an individual worthy of participating in sacred rituals and ceremonies. The discipline and self-control required for fasting were seen as virtues that reflected one’s dedication and reverence towards the divine and the ancestors.
Modern Reflections
Today, while the specific rituals of ancient Chinese fasting might not be widely practiced, the principles behind them still resonate. Modern practices of mindfulness, detox diets, and retreats share similarities with these ancient traditions, focusing on purification, discipline, and spiritual growth.