奇速英语

教师节，致敬伟大的教育者！

Teachers’ Day is a day to recognize and thank teachers for their hard work throughout the year. In China, this holiday falls on September 10th each year and involves celebrating the contributions made by teachers by giving them gifts and conducting ceremonies to honor them.

Teachers’ Day in ancient China

China’s Teachers’ Day, while not officially recognized until the end of the twentieth century, has a long and fascinating history. The earliest celebration that resembles the modern holiday first took place, though not formally, over 2,000 years ago during the Han dynasty (202 BCE-220 CE). At that time, Teachers’ Day festivities were generally held on the 27th day of the eighth lunar month, a date widely believed to be the birthday of China’s most influential educator and philosopher, Confucius.

Emperors and officials celebrated the holiday by visiting regional Confucian temples, known as 孔庙 (kǒngmiào), thousands of which are open to visitors across China today. From the Tang dynasty (618-907 CE) to the Qing dynasty (1644-1912 CE), a formal Confucius Memorial Ceremony was held in provincial capitals around the country to mark the holiday, during which selected teachers were given a large bonus by the central government.

Celebrating Teachers’ Day today

Because teaching is generally regarded as an honorable profession in China today, it should come as no surprise that Teachers’ Day remains an important holiday. Although Teachers’ Day is not a public holiday in China, it is still observed in various ways. On September 10th, many teachers enjoy bonuses from school administrations or even a few hours off work. It is also common for students and families to gift teachers with cards and presents. Former students will also traditionally return to their former school and give presents to their favorite former teachers in order to mark the holiday.

Teachers’ Day is one important way to show that educators in the country are celebrated and respected. Remember, no matter where you are this Teachers’ Day, be sure to give thanks to the educators in your life for all that they do.