In ancient Chinese mythology, the legend of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess, is one of the most famous stories. This myth is closely related to the Mid-Autumn Festival. It is a tale of love, sacrifice, and longing that continues to be celebrated throughout Asia (but mostly China).

A long time ago, ten suns rose into the sky, making the Earth very hot and causing suffering. While the world was crying out for help, a great archer named Hou Yi took matters into his own hands. With his bow and arrows, he shot down nine of the suns, leaving only one to light the sky. As a reward, the Queen Mother of the West gave him a powerful elixir of immortality. This potion would allow him to live forever, but Hou Yi did not want to leave his wife, Chang’e, behind. Instead of drinking it, he hid the elixir in their home.

One day when Hou Yi was away, a greedy man named Feng Meng broke into their home to steal the potion. To protect it, Chang’e drank it herself. Immediately, she began to float into the sky. She rose higher and higher until she reached the moon, where she became immortal and has lived ever since. Hou Yi was absolutely devastated so on the night of the full moon, he would place her favorite foods outside and gaze at the sky, hoping to see her.

This act inspired the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time when families come together to admire the moon, eat mooncakes, and think of loved ones who are not on Earth anymore (Also known as dead). The festival celebrates unity, gratitude, and the hope of reunion.

The story of Chang’e is rich with symbolism. It speaks to deep emotional themes such as love and separation, and highlights the idea that great love may require great sacrifice. Her story is still told to this day and is still influencing traditions.

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