Chinese Numbers and Superstitions

Lucky Number VS Unlucky Number

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Just as Friday the 13th is deemed an unlucky day in Western cultures, Eastern traditions also have their own set of beliefs regarding numbers. While some may dismiss them as mere superstitions, these numerical beliefs play a significant role in festivals and everyday life among the Chinese community. Rooted in history, these superstitions have seamlessly woven into the fabric of contemporary culture, illustrating the enduring influence of these traditions.

Lucky Numbers

2 (二)

The number 2 (二), representing duality or 双 (shuāng), carries a positive connotation in Chinese culture, encapsulated by the idiom 好事成双 (hǎo shì chéng shuāng) - good things come in pairs. This belief underpins the tradition of presenting gifts in pairs, symbolizing double happiness (双喜 or 囍), a motif frequently seen in decorations at traditional Chinese weddings.

6 (六)

The number 6 (六) symbolizes smoothness and is often associated with the phrase 六六大顺 (liù liù dà shùn), wishing for everything to proceed without hindrance. The celebration of the 60th birthday, or 六十大寿 (liùshí dàshòu), holds particular significance as it marks a period in life where one is typically surrounded by a large, joyful family, including children and grandchildren, representing a time of pride and fulfillment.

8 (八)

The number 8 (八), pronounced as bā, is especially auspicious, as it sounds similar to 发 (fā) in 发财 (fā cái), meaning to become wealthy. Consequently, it's a favored number in expressions of good wishes, particularly during the Lunar New Year, with phrases like 八方来财 (wealth coming from all directions) and 八方鸿运 (fortune coming from all directions). The slang "888" is often used to wish wealth upon someone or oneself. Items bearing the number 8, such as car license plates and phone numbers, can fetch higher prices, with people willing to pay a premium for this lucky number.

Unlucky Number

Conversely, the number 4 (四) is widely regarded as the most unlucky number due to its pronunciation, sì, sounding similar to 死 (sǐ), the word for death. This similarity has led to a cultural tendency to avoid discussing death, considered an inauspicious subject. It's common to see buildings without a fourth floor or people avoiding dates with the number 4 (e.g., April 4th, 2004, or 4/4/2004) due to its perceived bad luck.

Though there's no scientific basis linking numbers to fortune or misfortune, these beliefs are deeply ingrained in the Chinese psyche. Awareness and sensitivity towards these numerical superstitions are considered important in daily life and gift-giving practices.