'Da Nao': The Internal Structure and Cultural Code of 'Re Nao'

摘要

The essence of the character “Nao” had already been fostered in the western Han Dynasty. It is the latter word of the expression “Re Nao”, which essentially refers to lively and bustling with excitement in folklore, maintains immensely prolific social functions. Re Nao (jollification) exists as an integral part in the internal structure of rite of passage or the adult rituals of transit. Re Nao aids in devising a warm atmosphere and reorganizing the living environment. It is the way to go through the threshold stage, which leads to the entrance to a new stage, while the ceremonial undertakings under this threshold stage help in eradicating pollution and restoring cleanliness. The internal mechanism of Re Nao includes the transitional ceremonies in the perilous double test of nature and society: while in the folk custom ceremony, the ritualistic suppressing and trapping of demons is completed by the shaman. Da Nao (causing chaos and noise) breeds danger to vitality and harmony or chaos for the coexistence of humans and gods.“Da Nao” and “Re Nao” are popular complementary representations of folk ceremonial activities. It was witnessed in the past, celebrations like New Year’s Eve, Lantern Festival, Fang Xiangshi (Chinese ritual exorcist—one who sees evil in all four directions), Tongzi (cosplay done by the villagers) and the festival demonstrating invisible transcendence of the world (world of ghosts) displayed fierce spirit and were eminently lively. It can be said that for the spiritual time and sacred space of the traditional society, it is vital to periodically perform the rites of “Da Nao—beheaded demon”: and perform the scenes of “Re Nao” ceremony through Da Nao rites to fulfill the purpose of purification.