At a time before the world knew what science was, there were many beliefs regarding the moon. It is said that if one were to gaze at the moon at its brightest, he will be reduced to insanity by the lunar power. At another period of time, people were known to worship the moon. It is called animism, where natural objects and living things were revered like gods. Today, gruesome stories of some human breaking out hideously into werewolves upon full moon, make movie blockbusters. Indeed, the moon has long held the fascination of man.
In Malaysia, the Chinese celebrate the Mooncake Festival (known as Mid-Autumn Festival in China) in honour of the moon. They believe that the moon symbolises the fullness of life, thus, on the day it shines brightest, thanksgiving prayers are offered.
Below are some well-known legends of the Moon passed down through generations in Chinese history.
The Moon Princess
The story is set around the Tang Dynasty (circa 618 AD). It is said that the Earth once had 10 Suns circling around it, and each took turns illuminating the Earth. However, one day, all 10 Suns appeared together and naturally, the Earth got too hot.
Into the picture comes a tyrannical archer Hou Yi, who succeeds in shooting down nien of the Suns with his bow and arrow.
He then steals the elixir of life from the Goddess of Western Heaven but his wife, Chang Er, drinks it in a bid to save the world from her husband. After drinking it, she is seen floating away to the Moon. Hou Yi is unable to shoot down the Moon due to his love for his wife. It is said the Chang Er can be seen at her most beautiful on the night of the brightest harvest moon, which is the 15th day of the eighth lunar month.
The Rabbit
In this famous legend, three fairies transformed themselves into poor old men and begged for alms from a fox, a monkey and a rabbit. The fox and monkey shared what they had but the rabbit, who had nothing, willingly offered his own flesh. He then proceeded to jump into the fire to roast himself. The old men were so touched, they restored the rabbit and let him live in the Moon Palace where he is now known to as the Jade Rabbit.
The Mooncake
The origin of Mid-Autumn Festival dates back many centuries, in ancient China. Through the passage of time, many colourful tales about the origin have evolved. One popular legend, passed down from grandmothers to children and retold each year, evolves around the overthrow of the Mongol rulers in China.