(TAP) - As the last cold winds of the season gradually subside, peach blossoms shyly burst into pink across Northern Vietnam, carrying with them fresh vitality and hopes for a peaceful new year. Amid the gentle turning of heaven and earth, their rosy hue appears like a gentle herald of Tet, both familiar and sacred in the memories of generations.
Every Tet, as spring returns, peach blossoms show off their vibrant colors across Northern Vietnam. Source: mrduong.vn
For a long time, peach blossoms have held a special place in the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people, especially among those in the North whenever spring returns. According to folk beliefs, their soft pink color symbolizes renewal, dispels the bitter cold of winter, and opens a new cycle of life for all things.
An ancient legend tells of two deities, Tra and Uat Luy, who resided in a great peach tree on Mount Loc Thap and possessed the power to suppress evil spirits. In the final days of the year, when the gods temporarily left the mortal world, people would place peach branches in their homes to retain their protection, so that evil might withdraw in fear, making way for peace to enter every household.
Beyond its spiritual meaning, peach blossoms also remind people of resilience in the face of challenges. After enduring the cold days of winter, each bud quietly gathers its strength and patiently waits for spring to bloom. This image reflects the determination to overcome difficulties and the belief in a brighter tomorrow after dark days.
In addition, in the cultural tradition of the East, peach blossoms are associated with the classic tale of the “Oath of the Peach Garden,” symbolizing loyal and lasting friendship between people. Therefore, a peach branch at Tet is not merely a decoration. Its gentle blossoms also convey a message of harmony, connecting generations within a family.
Peach blossoms in spring - A symbol of peace in Northern Vietnam. Source: flosa.vn
If the South places its hopes in the brilliant yellow apricot blossoms, the North regards peach blossoms as the soul of spring. Peach flowers carry a soft pink hue, symbolizing peace and renewal; apricot blossoms wear a warm golden color, representing prosperity, good fortune, and enduring strength. Though different in color and rooted in different regions, both share the same aspiration: a full and prosperous new year, and harmony within every family. This cultural blending allows peach blossoms to appear in the South and apricot blossoms in the North, enriching Tet across Vietnam while preserving its essential spirit.
Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, moments spent tending peach blossoms become a rare opportunity to slow down. Grandparents recount old stories, children listen, and the whole family prepares the home to welcome spring. In the delicate beauty of the blossoms, the weariness of a long year seems to subside, giving way to a sense of peace and renewed hope.
Therefore, peach blossoms during Tet go far beyond simply decorating living spaces. These flowers preserve cultural memories, enrich spiritual life, and connect people to their roots. Even as time passes, the blossoms quietly bloom each spring, a gentle reminder of the Vietnamese spirit, of faith, and of the enduring continuity of life.
Xuan Mai