In some East Asian countries, particularly China, a red envelope, or also known as the red packet, is usually given during special occasions and holidays. It is usually a monetary gift.
If you have recently joined a family that gives red envelopes, you may be wondering if it is appropriate to give them. The answer is yes. While the receiving family members may not be expecting it, giving one will endear you to the family.
The amount to give depends on your financial situation and the child's family's. Generally, best practice is to directly ask a family member close to your age how much they plan to give. Match that amount--do not give more as it can be an embarrassment to that person.
Timing is critical. During the Lunar New Year, red envelopes are usually presented at family or even social gatherings. The red actually symbolizes good luck and believed to ward off and send away evil spirits. In China, in trying to keep off with their tradition, couples who are newly-wed are expected to be totally generous with regards to the amount inside the red envelopes; this connotes a blissful married life.
Also, keep Chinese number superstition in mind, as it extends throughout East Asia. It is a Chinese belief that the amount of money that should be inside the envelope must end with an even digit and odd-numbered amount are associated with funerals. For example, 168 or 88 are considered lucky numbers, so you may give $168 or $88. For weddings, the amount that should be given to the newly-weds should almost cover the overall cost of the attendees and to offer goodwill to the couple. It is even considered rude to give a low amount on such an occasion.
In some other customs, the giving of these Chinese New Year envelopes are also seen and practiced; it has also been called in a lot of different terms. In Vietnam, for one, these envelopes are called "li xi"; in Thailand, they are called "ang pow"; in Myanmar (or Burma) they refer to the envelope as "an-pao"; while in South Korea, although the envelope is not red but white, they call it "sae bae ton."
In Japan, it is given to children during the New Year period; although they also used white envelopes. In the Philippines, Chinese Filipinos also exchange "ang pao" during their Chinese New Year.
Whatever name or reasons, these Chinese New Year envelopes are certainly meant to give good luck to the recipient. I believe that we should also do this so that we can share whatever good luck and fortune we have. This way the charm, and the culture, will be passed from one generation to the next. For as long as you believed, nothing is wrong with the act of giving.
Brian Sutherland is an enthusiast of all Chinese cultural elements. He sells Chinese toys such as Chinese yoyo and contact juggling supplies. Come visit JugglingStore.com and see them for yourself!
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