Why is 7 a Bad Number in China?
In Chinese culture, numbers play a significant role in various aspects of life, including superstition, spirituality, and even business. Among the various numbers, one number stands out as particularly unfortunate – the number 7. Why is 7 a bad number in China? This article will delve into the reasons behind the taboo surrounding this number.
Lucky and Unlucky Numbers in Chinese Culture
Before exploring the reasons behind the unluckiness of 7, it is essential to understand the concept of lucky and unlucky numbers in Chinese culture. In Chinese tradition, numbers are categorized into two groups: lucky numbers (福数, fú shù) and unlucky numbers (祸数, huò shù). Lucky numbers are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity, while unlucky numbers are associated with misfortune and bad luck.
The 7th Month: A "Ghost Month"
One of the primary reasons 7 is considered an unlucky number is the 7th month, also known as the "Ghost Month." This month is believed to be a period when the gates of hell are opened, and the spirits of the dead return to earth. The 7th month is also associated with the Chinese New Year’s Day, which is considered an inauspicious time. This belief may have originated from the ancient Chinese practice of honoring the dead, which involves offerings and sacrifices.
"Qī" (Seven) Sounds Like "Killing"
Another reason 7 is considered an unlucky number is that the Chinese character for 7, "qī" (), sounds like the word for "killing" or "murder" (****, qī). This homophone creates a negative association with the number 7, making it an unfavorable number.
Unlucky Buildings and Floors
In many Chinese cities, buildings and apartments with a 7th floor or 14th floor (considered double unlucky) are rare or nonexistent. This is due to the fear of bad luck and misfortune associated with these numbers. In some cases, the absence of a 7th floor is a deliberate design choice to avoid the perceived bad luck.
Number 7 in Other Cultures
It’s interesting to note that the concept of number 7 being unlucky is not exclusive to Chinese culture. In many other cultures, 7 is considered an unlucky number. For example, in Japanese culture, the number 7 is considered unlucky because it sounds like the word for "swindle" or "cheat."
Table: Unlucky Numbers in Chinese Culture
| Number | Chinese Character | Associated Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | (sì) | Death |
| 6 | (liù) | Sickness or Poverty |
| 7 | (qī) | Killing or Murder |
| 9 | (jiǔ) | Reverse or Backward |
In Conclusion
In Chinese culture, the number 7 is considered an unlucky number due to its association with the "Ghost Month," the homophone "killing" or "murder," and the avoidance of buildings and floors with this number. These superstitions have led to the widespread perception of 7 as a negative number. Understanding the cultural significance of numbers in China can help foreigners navigate this complex and fascinating aspect of the culture.
Additional Reading:
- For a deeper understanding of the Chinese calendar and its significance, read this article.
- To learn more about Chinese superstitions and their impact on daily life, read this article.
- For an exploration of the cultural significance of numbers in other Asian cultures, read this article.