Ravens are considered a symbol of Halloween due to their association with the supernatural and Halloween Raven frequent presence in folklore, literature, and horror movies.Their sleek black feathers and sharp, intelligent eyes give them an appearance of being messengers from another world, contributing to their mysterious and eerie reputation.
This has established them as an iconic symbol for Halloween. But have you ever wondered why a significant number of ravens gather in Shenyang, the hometown of Aroma Halloween, especially during winter?
The Historical Significance of Ravens in Shenyang
Shenyang, located in Northeast China, about two and a half hours by rail from Beijing, is not only the origin of the Qing Dynasty but also a city with a unique historical connection to ravens. Shenyang has the largest concentration of Manchu people making up 51.26% of the Manchu population in China.
This connection dates back to an incident involving Nurhaci, the founder of the Qing Dynasty. As the story goes, Legend has it that Nurhaci, the founder of the Qing dynasty, once worked as a servant in the home of a Ming dynasty military official. One day, while bringing the official water to wash his feet, Nurhaci noticed that the official had three red moles under his foot. Impulsively, Nurhaci mentioned that he himself had seven red moles under his feet. This statement greatly surprised the official. In folk belief, having the Big Dipper (seven stars) under one’s foot was seen as a sign of a future emperor.
Fearing the prophecy, the military official decided to eliminate this potential threat to his power. Nurhaci, however, was unaware of this plot against his life. The official’s concubine, upon learning of the planned assassination, couldn’t bear to see Nurhaci killed unjustly. She helped him escape. When the official discovered this, he killed the concubine and sent his men to chase after Nurhaci.
The chase was grueling. Exhausted and unable to run any further, Nurhaci lay down, resigned to his fate as the pursuers closed in. Suddenly! A flock of ravens flew down and covered him, concealing his presence from his pursuers and saving his life.
In this way, Nurhaci narrowly escaped a near-fatal encounter. After his miraculous escape, he went on to fulfill the prophecy by establishing a powerful empire, just as foretold. This incident, where the ravens came to his aid, became a legendary tale passed down through generations.
As a result of this story, In gratitude, Nurhaci ordered the Manchu people to erect poles with containers to feed the ravens. This practice led to the Raven in Manchu folklore and established the raven as a protective and revered creature, in stark contrast to its ominous portrayal in Western culture. The raven came to be regarded as a sacred bird by the royal family of the Qing dynasty, revered as the “Divine Raven” that saved their ancestor.
Ravens in Modern Shenyang
Interestingly, large gatherings of ravens are not a common sight in Shenyang throughout the year.
They primarily flock to the city during winter due to the urban environment, which is warmer by about 3 degrees Celsius than the surrounding areas. The city’s tall buildings provide ideal shelter against the wind, making it an ideal haven for these birds.
Ravens, which coexist closely with humans, find survival easier in urban settings. Proximity to the Hun River solves their water needs, and it’s common to see them foraging during the day and returning to the city center at dusk.
The story of the raven in Shenyang is a fascinating blend of historical reverence and modern adaptation. These birds, which play a significant role in the Halloween imagery, also embody a cultural significance unique to Shenyang.
As Aroma Halloween, a manufacturer with deep roots in this region, we embrace the legend and mystique of the raven. It’s a symbol that not only enhances the spooky atmosphere of Halloween but also represents a rich historical legacy that continues to shape local traditions. As we supply Halloween decorations globally, we carry with us the story of the raven – a reminder of resilience, protection, and the intertwined relationship between folklore and reality.
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