The three great joys in life are: becoming a successful candidate on the imperial examination, a night of blooming flowers and candles in the bridal chamber, and meeting old acquaintances in a foreign land. In the eyes of ancient people, achieving fame and fortune, building one's own family, and meeting old friends in a foreign land are three very joyful and celebratory events.
1. When achieving success in the imperial examination
In ancient times, many people studied hard for many years in the hope of having a bright future and changing their destiny. So achieving success in the imperial examination is the only legitimate way to enter the officialdom and obtain official positions. So becoming a successful candidate in the imperial examination is the first great joy of life.
2. Night of Flowers and Candlesticks in the bridal chamber
On the night of bridal candles and flowers, it means that two people have formed their own families. In ancient times, it was not only required to be of equal social status, but also to receive betrothal gifts and dowries. Before getting married, it was also necessary to choose an auspicious day and hold a banquet to entertain relatives and friends. People attach great importance to this and consider it the second greatest joy in life New couple's wedding couplet
Image source: Tianyi Sky Banquet Hall
3. Encountering old acquaintances in a foreign land
In ancient times, transportation was extremely inconvenient, and travelers could only return home once after being away for many years. Encountering an old acquaintance in a foreign land is bound to be filled with excitement, as if seeing family. So for them, this is a great joy, and meeting old acquaintances in a foreign land is naturally listed as the third greatest joy in life.
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