Although there are different opinions about the origin of Torch Festival, its origin is most directly related to the worship of fire. Its purpose is to use fire to repel insects and protect crops. Torch Festival is called "Du Ze" in Liangshan Yi language, which means "offering fire". In the two sacrificial songs "Sacrificing Vulcan" and "Sacrificing Pots and Sacrificing Stones", there are descriptions of the miracle of Vulcan Ayidiegu. The original form of Torch Festival, in short, is the ancient fire worship. Fire is a symbol of the Yi people's pursuit of light. In the Yi area, the worship and sacrifice of fire are very common. On June 24th, the first day of the first month, a housewife chose the fattest piece of meat and threw it into a burning fireplace, praying for Vulcan's blessing. In Yongren County, the Yi people sacrifice fire on the second or third day of the first month, which is called "Vulcan Meeting". Liangshan Yi people regard the fire pit as a sacred place where Vulcan lives, and it is forbidden to touch and cross it. On festivals, young men and women of all ethnic groups light torches made of pine, go to the fields in the village for activities, sprinkle rosin on the torches while walking, or hold rallies, sing and dance, or race horses, bullfights and wrestling. In modern times, people use the opportunity of parties to socialize or meet lovers, and conduct business activities on festivals. China ethnic customs 1 zu
Among the traditional festivals of ethnic minorities in China, the Torch Festival of Yi nationality is one of the most attractive festivals, enjoying the reputation of "the first festival of ethnic customs in China" and "Oriental Carnival Night".
meaning
During the Torch Festival, four activities, such as sacrifice, literature and sports, social communication and product exchange, are the concentrated expression of the tight and complete cultural system of the Yi people. The Yi Torch Festival has a long history, broad mass base, wide coverage and far-reaching influence. Torch Festival fully embodies the national character of Yi people who respect and worship fire, and retains the ancient information about the origin and development of Yi people, which has important historical and scientific value. Torch Festival is one of the most symbolic symbols in traditional Yi culture, and it is also the carrier of traditional Yi music, dance, poetry, diet, clothing, farming, astronomy, worship and other cultural elements. Torch Festival is of great significance for enhancing the national identity of Yi people and promoting social harmony. At the same time, the Torch Festival has played a practical role in the communication between the Yi people and all ethnic groups and in promoting national unity.