Grain In Ear, also known as Mangzhong in Chinese, is the ninth of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar. It falls around June 6th each year and marks an important transitional period in agricultural activities. But what does Grain In Ear really mean? Let’s delve deeper into its significance and cultural implications.
grain in the ear meaning
Grain In Ear, known as “Mangzhong” in Chinese, is the ninth solar term among the twenty-four solar terms. It is the third solar term in summer and marks the beginning of the month of Wu in the Chinese sexagenary cycle. Specifically, it falls between June 5th and 7th in the Gregorian calendar. The literal meaning of “Grain In Ear” is “when grains with awns can be sown, after which it becomes ineffective.”
During the Grain In Ear period, the temperature significantly rises, rainfall increases, and the air becomes humid. These conditions are favorable for planting crops such as late rice and other cereal crops. In traditional agricultural practices, Grain In Ear serves as a crucial demarcation for farming activities, as the survival rate of crops planted after this period gradually decreases. It reflects the ancient agricultural culture’s understanding of seasonal changes and the appropriate timing for planting.
Grain In Ear holds great significance in farming practices. According to the lunar calendar, it is said, “When the stars are in the constellation of ‘si,’ it is Grain In Ear. At this time, grains with awns can be sown, but after this period, it becomes ineffective, hence the name Grain In Ear.” This means that Grain In Ear is suitable for planting cereal crops with awns, and it marks the point where sowing becomes ineffective afterward. The folk saying “Don’t plant after Grain In Ear, planting again is useless” emphasizes the importance of timing in agricultural activities. Grain In Ear is a busy farming period, often referred to as the “busy planting” season.
Grain In Ear is a critical time for agricultural activities, as it signifies the cultivation of rice in the south and the harvesting of wheat in the north. Farmers engage in various farming tasks during this period, ensuring the success of their crops. It is a time of intense agricultural labor and meticulous cultivation practices. The arrival of Grain In Ear carries the anticipation of a bountiful harvest and the hopes for agricultural prosperity.
In summary, Grain In Ear is a significant solar term that marks the beginning of the summer season and plays a crucial role in the timing of agricultural activities. It signifies the optimal period for sowing cereal crops with awns, highlighting the importance of proper timing for farming success. The translation of “芒种” into English is “Grain In Ear,” capturing the essence of this agricultural milestone.
when to use grain in ear？
The term “Grain In Ear” refers to a specific solar term in the Chinese calendar that marks the optimal timing for sowing certain crops. In the Gregorian calendar, Grain In Ear falls between June 5th and 7th each year. It is important to note that the specific dates may vary slightly, depending on the year and the region.
During the Grain In Ear period, the temperature rises, rainfall increases, and the air becomes humid. These conditions create an ideal environment for the growth of certain crops, particularly those with awns or grains. Traditional Chinese agricultural practices suggest that Grain In Ear is the suitable time for sowing grains like rice, corn, and other cereal crops.
The concept of Grain In Ear is deeply rooted in Chinese farming traditions and is based on the observation of seasonal changes and the ideal conditions for crop growth. Farmers in China have historically followed the solar terms to guide their agricultural activities, including planting, nurturing, and harvesting crops.
However, it’s important to note that the timing of agricultural activities, including planting, can also be influenced by local climate, soil conditions, and crop varieties. Therefore, farmers may adjust their planting schedules based on specific regional factors and their own experience.
In summary, Grain In Ear is traditionally used as a guide for farmers to determine the appropriate time for sowing cereal crops with awns. It signifies the period when temperature, rainfall, and humidity are favorable for crop growth. By aligning their farming activities with this solar term, farmers aim to optimize their chances of a successful harvest.
grain in ear history
Grain In Ear, known as “Mangzhong” in Chinese, is the ninth solar term out of the twenty-four solar terms in the Chinese calendar. It is the third solar term of the summer season and marks the beginning of the “Wu” month in the Chinese lunar calendar. During this period, the sun reaches a celestial longitude of 75 degrees, usually occurring between June 5th and 7th in the Gregorian calendar.
The term “Grain In Ear” carries the meaning of “grain crops with awns can be sown, and once this period passes, it becomes ineffective.” The temperature significantly rises during this period, accompanied by abundant rainfall and high humidity, creating favorable conditions for planting late rice and other cereal crops. In traditional farming culture, the Grain In Ear solar term serves as a division point for agricultural activities, as the survival rate of crops decreases after this period. It reflects the ancient farming wisdom regarding the appropriate timing for planting.
Grain In Ear holds great significance in agriculture. According to the lunar calendar, it is said, “When the constellation reaches the position of ‘Si’ (referring to the zodiac sign), it is Grain In Ear. This is the time when grains with awns can be sown, and once this period passes, it becomes ineffective.” The saying “Do not sow after Grain In Ear, as further planting is futile” emphasizes the importance of adhering to this specific timing. Grain In Ear is a busy period for farming activities and is often referred to as the “busy sowing” season. In the southern regions, it is the time for transplanting rice, while in the northern regions, it marks the harvest of summer crops like wheat.
The term “Grain In Ear” was first recorded in the book “Zhou Li” during the Han Dynasty, stating, “Grain grows from the marsh grass, and the time for sowing is Grain In Ear.” In the Yuan Dynasty, scholar Wu Cheng compiled the book “Yue Ling Qi Shi Er Hou Ji Jie” and described Grain In Ear as “the fifth month solar term when grains with awns can be sown.” The book “Tong Wei Xiao Jing Yuan Shen Qi” mentioned, “On the fifteenth day after Xiaoman (another solar term), when the constellation reaches ‘Si,’ it is Grain In Ear, the solar term in May. It means that grains with awns can be sown. Grain In Ear refers to the time when grains with awns can be sown.” The Qing Dynasty scholar Chen Sanmo also explained in his book “Sui Xu Zong Kao,” stating, “Grain refers to the top of the grass, and ‘Zhong’ means sowing. Grain In Ear means that grains with awns can be sown at this time. It is the solar term of May!” In other words, Grain In Ear signifies the period when grains with awns can be sown. In regions where rice cultivation is prevalent, this term mainly refers to rice planting, while in the northern regions with dryland agriculture, it signifies the ripening of wheat. Therefore, Grain In Ear encompasses both the planting of rice in the south and the harvest of wheat in the north.
grain in ear astronomical calendar
Grain In Ear, the ninth solar term out of the twenty-four solar terms in the Chinese calendar, is the third solar term of the summer season and marks the beginning of the “Wu” month in the Chinese lunar calendar. It falls between the solar terms of Xiaoman (Grain Rain) and Xia Zhi (Summer Solstice). Each year, Grain In Ear occurs between June 5th and 7th in the Gregorian calendar, when the handle of the Big Dipper points towards the southeast, and the sun reaches a celestial longitude of 75 degrees.
Grain In Ear represents a transitional period between Xiaoman and Xia Zhi. As we approach the summer solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun gradually moves closer to its northernmost position in the sky. During the Grain In Ear period, the days become longer, marking the peak of daylight hours in the Northern Hemisphere. Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, it represents the shortest days of the year.
grain in ear meteorological
The Grain In Ear solar term is characterized by a significant rise in temperature, abundant rainfall, and high humidity. During this period, hot weather is frequent, and the air becomes humid and often muggy. Whether in the southern or northern regions of China, the possibility of experiencing hot weather is high. In the southern part of China, such as the Pearl River Delta and Jiangnan region, the southeast monsoon brings stable rainfall, marking the onset of the plum rain season. However, in the northern regions of China, the rainy season has not yet arrived during the Grain In Ear period.
There are several weather-related sayings associated with the Grain In Ear solar term, such as “During Grain In Ear and Summer Solstice, you need someone to hold your hand while walking,” “If it rains during Grain In Ear, the water level will rise during the Dragon Boat Festival,” and “Grain In Ear and Summer Solstice are water festivals, but if there is no rain, it will be a dry day.”
During this period, except for some areas in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the northernmost part of Heilongjiang, most regions in China will have already experienced the heat of summer. People can generally expect hot summer weather during the Grain In Ear period.
grain in ear farming activities
The Grain In Ear solar term holds significant importance in agricultural cultivation as it guides farming activities. The term “Grain In Ear” signifies that grains with awns can be sown during this period, but it will be ineffective afterward. The climate characteristics of Grain In Ear include a significant rise in temperature and abundant rainfall, providing favorable conditions for both sowing and transplanting. Farming activities are divided by the Grain In Ear solar term, as the survival rate of crops planted after this period decreases gradually. Therefore, when the Grain In Ear arrives, it is crucial to seize the opportunity and promptly sow early-season crops and transplant rice. Delaying further would result in the shortening of the rice’s vegetative growth period due to the significantly increased temperature during the Grain In Ear period, making it more susceptible to drought and pest infestations. Ultimately, this would lead to lower yields during harvest in the autumn. In folk culture, Grain In Ear is referred to as the “busy sowing” period, as reflected in the saying, “Grain In Ear is busy; busy sowing.” This indicates that it is the busiest season for agricultural cultivation. There is a folk proverb that states, “If you don’t sow during Grain In Ear, sowing afterward is useless,” meaning that this period is relatively late for planting, necessitating prompt sowing. Agricultural production is closely tied to the rhythm of nature, and it reflects ancient farming culture’s understanding of seasonal changes.
Grain In Ear, also known as the “busy sowing” period in folk culture, is the time for sowing late-season crops such as rice. For most regions in China, Grain In Ear marks the busiest time of the year. The half-month from Grain In Ear to Summer Solstice is a peak period of sowing, transplanting, and managing seedlings for autumn-harvested crops. The saying, “Busy during Grain In Ear, planting late seedlings,” specifically refers to the busy season of transplanting rice seedlings. During the Grain In Ear period, crops such as rice experience vigorous growth and require substantial water supply. Moderate rainfall is highly beneficial for agricultural production. Ancient Chinese farming relied on precipitation from the sky and rivers on the ground to replenish water for crops, with agricultural activities primarily concentrated in regions with abundant rainfall and well-developed river systems. Even today, farmers in these regions engage in agricultural production according to the seasonal changes in temperature and precipitation. The Grain In Ear solar term marks the beginning of the Wu month in the Chinese sexagenary cycle, which falls during midsummer. It is a time when everything is growing vigorously, reaching its peak. From Grain In Ear until Major Heat, it is the peak season of rapid growth for all living things throughout the year.
grain in ear custom
Flower God
On the 2nd day of the 2nd lunar month, during the Flower Adorning Festival, people welcome the Flower God. As the Grain In Ear solar term approaches in May, many flowers start to wither and fall. In folk customs, on the day of Grain In Ear, people used to hold ceremonies to worship the Flower God and bid farewell, expressing gratitude and hoping to meet again in the following year. Although this custom no longer exists today, we can catch a glimpse of it in the famous novel “Dream of the Red Chamber” by Cao Xueqin. In the 27th chapter, it is described, “Those girls made sedan chairs and horses with flower petals and willow branches, and they were tied with colorful strings. Each tree, each flower had these things tied to them. The garden was filled with fluttering ribbons…” The phrase “千旄旌幢” (“thousands of banners and pennants”) implies the presence of shields and various types of ancient flags. It refers to the lively scene of bidding farewell to the Flower God in the grand households during the Grain In Ear festival.
An Miao (Safely Planting Seedlings)
An Miao is a farming custom in southern Anhui Province, dating back to the early Ming Dynasty. During the Grain In Ear period, after planting rice, people hold An Miao ceremonies to pray for a good harvest in autumn. Every household steams a dumpling made of fresh wheat flour, shapes it into various forms representing grains, livestock, fruits, and vegetables, and colors them with vegetable juice. These steamed dumplings serve as sacrificial offerings, symbolizing the wish for a bumper harvest of grains and the well-being of the villagers.
Mud Fight Festival
In the southeastern part of Guizhou Province, the Dong ethnic minority organizes the Mud Fight Festival around the Grain In Ear period every year. On that day, newlywed couples are accompanied by young men and women to collectively transplant rice seedlings while playfully engaging in mud fights. After the activity, they check the results, and the person with the most mud on their body is considered the most popular.
Cooking with Mei (Plums)
In the southern regions, May and June are the seasons when plums ripen, giving rise to the historical saying from the Three Kingdoms period, “Heroes are determined over a pot of plum wine.” Green plums contain various natural organic acids and abundant minerals, providing unique nutritional and health benefits such as blood purification, intestinal regulation, cholesterol reduction, fatigue elimination, beauty enhancement, pH balance regulation, and improved immune function. However, fresh plums are usually sour and astringent, making them difficult to consume directly. Therefore, the plums need to be processed through cooking, which is referred to as “煮梅” (cooking with plums).
Eating Jun Ta Cai
In the Ningbo region, there is a custom of eating Jun Ta Cai during the Grain In Ear period. Jun Ta Cai is a seasonal vegetable that grows around this time in the southern regions. Local people believe that Jun Ta Cai has the effect of clearing heat and detoxification, and eating it during summer can prevent heat rash.
The Three Phenological Signs
In ancient China, some literary works divided the 15 days of the Grain In Ear solar term into three phenological signs: the first sign is the birth of mantises, the second sign is the beginning of the shrike’s chirping, and the third sign is the silence of the reed warbler. It means that during the Grain In Ear period, mantis eggs hatch into baby mantises due to temperature changes. The shrike, which prefers shade, starts to appear on branches and chirps in response to the shade. However, the reed warbler, sensing the changing climate, gradually stops its singing.
grain in the ear keeps in good health
Chinese people have long emphasized the importance of health preservation, and one key principle is to “keep pace with the times.” During the Grain In Ear solar term, due to longer days and shorter nights, it is advisable to go to bed later and wake up earlier while ensuring sufficient sleep. Therefore, taking a short nap at noon to relieve fatigue becomes necessary. It is also important to adjust clothing according to the changing weather. As the saying goes, “Without eating Dragon Boat Festival rice dumplings, do not discard your winter clothes.” During the Grain In Ear period, the temperature may still fluctuate, so it is essential to keep warm to avoid catching a cold. Additionally, the weather during this period is hot, with frequent rainfall and high humidity. To nurture both body and mind, people should consume light and easily digestible foods.
During the Grain In Ear solar term, it is crucial to strengthen the body and prevent the occurrence of seasonal and infectious diseases such as heatstroke, mumps, and chickenpox. The key focus of health preservation during this time is on mental well-being. It is important to maintain a relaxed and joyful state of mind, avoiding anger, frustration, and melancholy, so that the flow of vital energy can circulate smoothly.
Meaning and symbol of Grain in Ear
The symbolic meaning of “Grain in Ear” is that it represents the time when grain crops, such as late rice, can be planted. The term “Grain in Ear” refers to the appearance of sharp prickles on the grain, indicating that the grain is approaching fullness and is ready to mature, symbolizing a bountiful harvest. Therefore, “Grain in Ear” signifies “the grains with prickles are ready to be harvested, and the rice with skills can be planted,” as the survival rate of crops decreases after this period of sowing.
“Grain in Ear” also symbolizes the arrival of the busy farming season. The seeds of mangoes are also known as “busy seeds.” People in the southern regions are busy planting rice, while those in the northern regions are busy harvesting wheat. There is a saying that goes, “Without sowing during Grain in Ear, supplementary sowing is futile,” meaning that Grain in Ear is the late sowing season and requires prompt action. Agricultural production is closely tied to the rhythm of nature, and mango seeds reflect the ancient agricultural culture’s understanding of the seasons.
The term “Grain in Ear” sounds similar to “busy sowing,” so it also implies a busy scene and represents the busiest period for farmers in the summer. Grain in Ear falls between June 5th and 7th each year, which is the time for late rice cultivation in the south and wheat harvesting in the north. Therefore, it is one of the more important agricultural solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar.
Some say: There are two kinds of radiance in the world, one is the sun, and the other is the appearance of people striving hard. Grain in Ear has been silently cultivating to show the richness of life to the world. Whether in the sweat-soaked fields or the bustling city streets, all the joys of the future depend on the hard work of the present.
Grain In Ear VS Start of Spring
“Grain in Ear” and “Start of Spring” are two different solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar.
“Grain in Ear” (芒种) falls around June 5th-7th and represents the time when grain crops are nearing maturity. It signifies the period when grains, particularly late rice, are filled with sharp prickles and are ready to be harvested. This solar term marks the arrival of the busy farming season, with people in different regions busy planting or harvesting crops. “Grain in Ear” symbolizes the hard work and anticipation of a bountiful harvest.
On the other hand, “Start of Spring” (立春) falls around February 3rd-5th and marks the beginning of spring in the Chinese calendar. It signifies the transition from winter to spring, when the energy of new growth and rejuvenation emerges. “Start of Spring” is associated with the awakening of nature, and it represents the time when farmers start preparing for the upcoming farming season, such as plowing the fields and sowing seeds.
While both solar terms are important in the agricultural calendar, they represent different stages of the farming cycle. “Grain in Ear” focuses on the maturation and harvest of grain crops in the summer, while “Start of Spring” marks the beginning of the agricultural year and the arrival of spring.
Grain In Ear VS Small Grain
“Grain in Ear” (芒种) and “Small Grain” (小满) are two different solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar that are associated with the growth of crops.
“Grain in Ear” typically falls around June 5th-7th and represents the stage when grain crops, such as rice and wheat, have developed small spikes or awns on their heads. It indicates that the grains are becoming plump and nearing maturity, symbolizing the approaching harvest season.
On the other hand, “Small Grain” usually occurs around May 20th-22nd, preceding the “Grain in Ear” solar term. It signifies the stage when the grains are small and just beginning to form. During this time, the crops are in the early stages of growth, and farmers need to pay close attention to their cultivation, ensuring proper irrigation and fertilization to support healthy growth.
While both solar terms are related to the growth of grain crops, they represent different stages within the crop’s development. “Small Grain” focuses on the initial growth and formation of the grains, while “Grain in Ear” marks the stage when the grains are nearly mature and ready for harvest.
Grain In Ear VS RainWater
“Grain in Ear” (芒种) and “Rain Water” (雨水) are two distinct solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar, each marking a specific period and associated agricultural activities.
“Grain in Ear” typically falls around June 5th-7th and represents the stage when grain crops, such as rice and wheat, have developed small spikes or awns on their heads. It indicates that the grains are becoming plump and nearing maturity, symbolizing the approaching harvest season. This solar term highlights the importance of timely cultivation and management practices to ensure a successful harvest.
“Rain Water,” on the other hand, usually occurs around February 18th-20th. It signifies the transition from winter to spring and marks the time when rainfall increases, melting snow and providing moisture to nourish the soil. The focus during this period is on the need for adequate water supply to support the germination and growth of spring crops.
While both solar terms relate to agricultural activities, they occur during different seasons and emphasize distinct aspects of farming. “Grain in Ear” emphasizes the maturation of grain crops and the imminent harvest, while “Rain Water” highlights the importance of rainfall and water supply for spring planting and crop growth.
Grain in Ear song
“Grain in Ear” is a song with lyrics by Jia Qi and music composed by Shang Xiaojin. It is performed by Zhao Fangjing and the band Yin Que Shi Ting. The song was released as a single on June 6, 2019, and later included in the album “Twenty-Four Solar Terms” released by Yin Que Shi Ting on April 4, 2020.
On January 11, 2020, the song won the award for the Most Popular Traditional Chinese-style Song on the 2019 Pop Music Chart.
So, what does Grain In Ear mean? It symbolizes the culmination of hard work, the promise of a bountiful harvest, and the interplay between humans and nature. It embodies the essence of agricultural traditions, cultural customs, and the profound wisdom passed down through generations. Grain In Ear reminds us of the intrinsic bond between humanity and the earth, urging us to cherish and respect the cycles of nature that sustain us.
