The origin of China's Thanksgiving Day is related to a story of gratitude

What is the origin of Chinese Thanksgiving? China's Thanksgiving Day is also called Qingming Festival, which was recorded as early as the Spring and Autumn Period. Next, let’s take a closer look at it.

The Origin of Chinese Thanksgiving

Jie Zitui cuts meat

The origin of China's Thanksgiving Day is related to a story of gratitude. During the Spring and Autumn Period, Prince Chong'er of Jin fled abroad with his officials to escape persecution. During the escape, they found themselves in a deserted place. Everyone was tired and hungry, and couldn't find anything to eat. Prince Chong'er of Jin almost collapsed from hunger. When everyone was extremely anxious, the minister Jie Zitui quietly cut a piece of meat from his thigh, cooked a bowl of broth for the prince to drink, and Chong'er gradually recovered his spirit. When Chong'er found out that the meat was cut from Jie Zitui's own leg, he shed tears.

Chong'er repays his gratitude

Nineteen years later, Chong'er became the king, known as Duke Wen of Jin in history. After he ascended the throne, he rewarded the meritorious officials who had accompanied him in exile, but he forgot Jie Zitui. Many people felt sorry for Jie Zitui and advised him to ask the king for reward. However, Jie Zitui despised seeking rewards, and he packed his bags and went to live in seclusion in Mianshan with his mother. When Duke Wen of Jin heard this, he was ashamed and personally led people to invite Jie Zitui. But Jie Zitui had already left his original place and lived in Mianshan.