Introduction: The Meaning of Taboos at the Beginning of the Year
In Vietnamese culture, the first days of the new year (especially the first day of Lunar New Year) are considered sacred, believed to set the tone for the entire year. Folk wisdom holds that what happens on these days influences the days to come, so people pay great attention to words, actions, and even the dishes served on the family altar. Avoiding certain foods stems not only from folk experience but also reflects a philosophy of life and aspirations for luck and avoidance of misfortune.
Commonly Avoided Foods
1. Duck Meat: Avoiding Bad Luck and Separation
Duck meat is often avoided at the start of the year, especially in the North. The Chinese character for duck (鸭) sounds like "oppress" (压), and the dark color of ducks is associated with bad luck. Folk sayings suggest duck is for bidding farewell to the old year, not welcoming the new one. Some regions avoid duck to prevent family members from "flying away" like wild ducks.
2. Squid: Fear of Blackness
Squid is avoided because its black color (ink) symbolizes darkness and misfortune. Eating squid at the start of the year is thought to bring obstacles and financial losses. Despite being a versatile ingredient, it is kept off the Tet feast table.
3. Banana: Avoiding Failure and Hardship
The word for banana (chuối) sounds like "chúi" (to stoop, to stumble), implying difficulties or falling. Some regions avoid eating bananas during the new year, although bananas still appear on the five-fruit tray as a symbol of fullness. This shows that taboos are often local and multi-layered.
4. Shrimp: Fear of Setbacks
Shrimp have a curved shape and swim backward, leading to the belief that eating them causes work to regress or become trivial. Some also avoid shrimp because they molt, symbolizing unfavorable changes.
5. Snail: Avoiding Tangles and Toil
Snails are avoided because their spiral shells suggest tangled problems. Eating snails requires time and effort, seen as inviting hardship. In folklore, snails are also associated with slowness and bad luck.
6. Fertilized Duck Egg: Avoiding Chaos
The word "lộn" (to turn upside down) in trứng vịt lộn suggests disorder and instability. Eating it at the start of the year is believed to bring upheaval. Some also avoid regular duck eggs for fear of breakage symbolizing bad omens.
7. Black or Bitter Foods
Foods with black color (like blood pudding) or bitter taste (like bitter melon) are also taboo. Black is linked to bad luck, bitterness to hardship. Red, yellow, and sweet foods are preferred for their auspicious meanings.
Cultural and Psychological Perspectives
These taboos originate from associative thinking, wordplay, and oral traditions passed down generations. Regional differences are significant: some areas avoid duck, others do not; bananas are avoided in the North but valued in the South. Thus, taboos are flexible cultural products, not absolute rules.
Psychologically, avoiding certain foods provides a sense of control and reduces anxiety about the uncertain future. It also strengthens community bonds through shared rituals. Modern psychology suggests ritualistic behaviors can boost confidence, even without scientific basis.
Regional variations reflect the diversity of Vietnamese culinary culture, reminding us not to impose a single belief nationwide.
Conclusion: To Avoid or Not?
From a modern viewpoint, these taboos lack scientific evidence and should not become mental burdens. However, if they bring peace of mind and joy, they are culturally valuable choices. The key is balance, not letting prohibitions ruin the happiness of family gatherings. Whether you observe them or not, real luck comes from preparation, effort, and a positive attitude.
In today's integrated world, many young families are more flexible, focusing on food safety and nutrition while still respecting traditions. Consulting elders can help harmonize modern and traditional values.
In summary, New Year food taboos are a fascinating part of Vietnamese folklore, reflecting hopes for a peaceful and lucky year. Though not scientific, they are preserved as spiritual heritage connecting generations. Understanding their origins helps us view these customs with an open mind, preserving identity while adapting to modern life.
