Jingzhe, the third solar term of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar, marks the beginning of mid-spring. It occurs when the sun reaches the celestial longitude of 345° on the Gregorian calendar, typically falling on March 5th or 6th. During this period, yang qi (positive energy) rises, temperatures warm up, spring thunder starts to rumble, and rainfall increases, bringing vibrant life to all creatures.
The saying goes, “When spring thunder roars, all things grow.” Jingzhe signifies the return of spring to the earth, with the first rumbles of spring thunder awakening hibernating insects from their underground slumber.
Ancient Chinese divided Jingzhe into three pentads (or climate phases): “The first pentad marks the beginning of peach blossoms; the second, the singing of the canggeng (yellow oriole); and the third, the transformation of the hawk into the dove.” These describe the arrival of mid-spring, a time when peach blossoms turn red, pear blossoms turn white, yellow orioles sing, and swallows fly. Among them, “the beginning of peach blossoms” signifies the first pentad of Jingzhe, marking the start of peach blossoms, which symbolizes the beginning of spring’s bloom.
The blooming of peach blossoms not only adds color to nature but also signifies good fortune, beauty, new beginnings, and vitality.
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