What Is the Lucky Money Tradition?

The lucky money tradition, also called mung tuoi, involves giving red envelopes with money for good luck. During Lunar New Year, lucky money is given to children, elders, and loved ones. It carries wishes of fortune, happiness, and a prosperous new year. Red envelopes symbolize luck, joy, and positive energy in Eastern culture.

The Lunar New Year Lucky Money Tradition Brings Luck and Prosperity

The lucky money tradition during Lunar New Year is a cherished cultural practice. It exists not only in Vietnam. The tradition is also found in China, South Korea, and Japan.

Origins of the Lunar New Year Lucky Money Tradition

The lucky money tradition has existed for a long time in Asia. It appears not only in Vietnam. It is also found in China, Japan, and South Korea. Many sources trace its origin to China. The tradition is linked to a folktale about warding off evil spirits.

Where did the lucky money tradition originate?

According to Chinese legend, a demon named Sui appeared on New Year’s Eve. Sui was believed to frighten and harm children. To protect them, parents placed coins in red envelopes under children’s pillows. They believed red color and coin sounds could scare away evil spirits. This practice later became the lucky money tradition during Lunar New Year. It symbolizes wishes for luck, safety, and peace, especially for children.

The Origin of the Lunar New Year Lucky Money Tradition

The lucky money tradition spread across East Asia, including Vietnam, becoming an essential cultural practice during Lunar New Year.

The Lucky Money Tradition of the Chinese People

The Chinese lucky money tradition shares similarities with Vietnam and China. However, it has its own distinctive features. Chinese people pay close attention to the amount of lucky money given. They prefer auspicious numbers like eight for wealth and nine for longevity. The appearance of red envelopes is also very important. They must always be neat, elegant, and visually appealing.

The Meaning of the Lunar New Year Lucky Money Tradition

For Vietnamese people, the lucky money tradition holds special meaning. The term “li xi” comes from the Sino-Vietnamese word loi thi. It means bringing good fortune and luck. Giving red envelopes is more than giving money. It conveys wishes for health, prosperity, and peace in the new year.

The Meaning of the Red Envelope

Red symbolizes luck and prosperity in East Asian culture. Therefore, lucky money envelopes are usually red or bright gold. These colors represent wealth, success, and abundance. Red envelopes also symbolize protection from bad luck and the arrival of good fortune.

The Meaning of Giving Lucky Money During the Lunar New Year

The Meaning of Giving Lucky Money

Lucky Money Meanings:

Lucky money for children shows love and wishes for good behavior, academic success, and good fortune.

Lucky money for elders expresses respect, gratitude, and wishes for health and longevity.

In businesses, lucky money motivates employees and wishes for prosperity in the new year.

The Custom of Giving Lucky Money in Vietnam

In Vietnam, lucky money giving is a distinctive tradition that takes place right after New Year’s Eve. Adults give lucky money to children with good wishes for happiness and success. Children give lucky money to grandparents and parents to show gratitude and wish them good health.

Lucky Money Tradition During Tết in Vietnam

During early-year gatherings, lucky money is exchanged along with New Year greetings. The tradition is simple yet deeply meaningful in spiritual value. The amount of money matters less than the affection and blessings it represents.

Things to Keep in Mind When Giving Lucky Money During Tết

Although lucky money carries positive meanings, there are several important things to consider to ensure cultural appropriateness:

1. Color of the Lucky Money Envelope

Lucky money envelopes are usually red or gold, symbolizing luck and prosperity.
Avoid black or white envelopes, as they are associated with bad luck or funerals in East Asian culture

Red Lucky Money Envelopes Symbolize Luck and Prosperity

2. The Amount of Lucky Money

The amount of lucky money does not need to be large, but it should be a “lucky” number. Common choices include 50,000 VND, 100,000 VND, or 200,000 VND. Avoid amounts like 40,000 VND, as the number four is associated with bad luck.

Giving Lucky Money with New Year Wishes

3. How to Give Lucky Money

Lucky money should be given with both hands to show respect, especially to elders. Accompany it with simple, meaningful wishes like “Happy New Year” or “Good health and prosperity.” It is best given on the first morning of the New Year for a lucky beginning.

4. Receiving Lucky Money