朋友的红包祝福的句子: A Guide for International Students

As an international student, you may find yourself in the middle of Chinese culture, especially during festivals and special occasions. One unique aspect is the tradition of sending red envelopes (hongbao) with monetary gifts and heartfelt wishes. This article aims to help you navigate this custom by providing examples of messages that you can include when giving red envelopes to your friends.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Red Envelopes
• Cultural Importance and History
• When to Give Red Envelopes
• How Much to Put in a Red Envelope
• Writing Messages in Red Envelopes
• Examples of Wishes and Messages
• Digital Red Envelopes (WeChat)
• Conclusion

Introduction to Red Envelopes

Red envelopes, also known as hongbao, are small, red envelopes filled with money and given as a gift during special occasions such as Chinese New Year, weddings, or other celebrations. They symbolize good luck and prosperity. For international students, understanding this tradition can help you connect more deeply with your Chinese peers and the local community.

Cultural Importance and History

The practice of giving red envelopes dates back centuries in China. Traditionally, elders would give red envelopes to younger generations as a way to pass on blessings and good fortune. Over time, the tradition has evolved to include friends and colleagues. Today, it's common to see red envelopes exchanged at various life milestones, not just during Chinese New Year.

When to Give Red Envelopes

Knowing when to give red envelopes is crucial. Here are some common occasions:

• Chinese New Year: The most traditional time to exchange hongbao.
• Weddings: Guests typically bring red envelopes filled with cash as a wedding gift.
• Birthdays: Giving a red envelope is a thoughtful gesture, especially for significant birthdays.
• Graduations: Celebrate academic achievements with a monetary gift and words of encouragement.

How Much to Put in a Red Envelope

The amount of money you put in a red envelope can vary widely. As a general rule:

• Chinese New Year: For close friends, consider amounts like 50, 100, or 200 RMB.
• Weddings: The average contribution is around 200-1000 RMB, depending on your relationship with the couple.
• Birthdays: A smaller amount, such as 20-100 RMB, is appropriate for close friends.
• Graduations: Celebrate achievements with a meaningful sum, often between 50-200 RMB.

Note: It's considered unlucky to include odd numbers or the number four (which sounds like "death" in Chinese).

Writing Messages in Red Envelopes

Adding a personal touch to your red envelope by writing a message inside is a thoughtful gesture. Here are some tips:

• Keep it short and sweet. A few words are enough to convey your well-wishes.
• Use formal language, even if you're close friends, to show respect.
• Include a greeting followed by your wishes or blessings.

Examples of Wishes and Messages

Here are some examples of what you might write in a red envelope:

• For Chinese New Year: "Wishing you a prosperous Year of the Rabbit!"
• For Weddings: "May your marriage be blessed with love and happiness."
• For Birthdays: "Happy birthday! May your year ahead be filled with joy and success."
• For Graduations: "Congratulations on your graduation! Best wishes for your future endeavors."

Digital Red Envelopes (WeChat)

In today's digital age, it's common to send digital red envelopes through platforms like WeChat. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the WeChat app.
2. Go to the Payments section.
3. Select Red Envelope.
4. Choose the amount you want to send and add a message.
5. Send the digital red envelope to your friend.

Digital red envelopes are convenient and a fun way to share the tradition with friends who might be far away.

Conclusion

Understanding the tradition of giving red envelopes is a valuable skill for international students living in China. Whether it's for Chinese New Year, a wedding, or any other special occasion, the right words and the right amount can make all the difference. Remember, the most important part is the thought and the good wishes you convey. So, next time you have a reason to celebrate, grab a red envelope and spread some joy!