Tuesday, February 19, 2008

China's Rice Culture


For a thousand of years, rice has sculpted much of Chinese culture. The Chinese have been industriously nurturing their land. Blood and sweat and tears have been invested by these diligent people in their aim to get good harvests. With their dedication and hard work in agriculture, China has now achieved several accounts for its stable rural essence.

In countless folktales, rice is enjoyed by gods and mortals alike, and it is considered by many to be the only grain that can link the heavens with the earth. Such beliefs have inspired numerous festivals, rituals and traditions. Many of which are nearly requisite occurrences wherever rice crops are planted. The green, terraced patties that cultivate this grain often hold both cultural and spiritual significance, even among those for whom rice is an everyday sight and source of living. And although effectiveness is not scientifically proven, rice is believed by some to have powerful medicinal properties.