The Story of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl
Once upon a time, a kind-hearted cowherd, Niulang, lived a humble life with his loyal ox. Unbeknownst to others, this ox was no ordinary animal. It was once a celestial being who had been banished from the heavens.
One day, the ox, sensing an opportunity to repay Niulang for his kindness, guided him to a hidden lake where celestial maidens were bathing. Among them was Zhinü, the beautiful weaver girl, who was a granddaughter of the Jade Emperor and a skilled weaver of the heavenly clouds.
Niulang and Zhinü fell deeply in love and soon got married. They lived happily on Earth, and Zhinü willingly left her celestial duties to be with her beloved husband. Together, they had two children and built a peaceful life.
The Separation of the Lovers
However, their happiness was short-lived. When the Jade Emperor discovered that Zhinü had abandoned her duties, he became furious and ordered the Queen Mother of the West to bring her back to the heavens. With immense sorrow, Zhinü was taken away, leaving Niulang heartbroken.
Seeing Niulang’s despair, his ox revealed a secret. If Niulang wore its magical hide after it passed away, he could fly to the heavens. Heartbroken but determined, Niulang followed the ox’s advice and ascended to the sky with his children. Just as he was about to reach Zhinü, the Queen Mother of the West used her hairpin to create the Milky Way, forming a vast celestial river that separated the lovers forever.
The Reunion on the Seventh Night
Moved by their unwavering love, a flock of magpies took pity on them and formed a bridge across the Milky Way, allowing the couple to reunite once a year. From then on, Niulang and Zhinü meet on the seventh night of the seventh lunar month, a day celebrated as the Qixi Festival in China, symbolizing love, devotion, and longing.
Cultural Significance of Qixi Festival
The Qixi Festival, also known as Double Seventh Festival, is widely celebrated across China and other East Asian countries. Traditionally, young women pray for wisdom and good marriages, while couples honor the legendary lovers by making romantic wishes under the night sky.
The tale of The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl is a touching reminder that love transcends time and space. Whether seen as a myth or a poetic metaphor for devotion, this story continues to inspire lovers worldwide.
No comments:
Post a Comment