Answer: Agriculture
Some extra relevant information:
The 24 solar terms are a traditional calendar system used in China to mark the changing of seasons and the agricultural activities associated with each period. These terms have been used for over 2,000 years and provide a precise measurement of the sun’s annual motion in relation to the Earth.
Each solar term is a two-week period that represents a specific astronomical event or natural phenomenon. They are determined by the movement of the sun and are divided into four main categories: the Start of the Seasons, the End of the Seasons, the Seasons in Between, and the Storing of Food.
The Start of the Seasons includes terms such as “Spring Begins” (Li Chun) and “Summer Begins” (Li Xia). These terms mark the beginning of key seasons and are important for farmers to plan their planting and harvesting activities.
The End of the Seasons includes terms such as “Autumn Begins” (Li Qiu) and “Winter Begins” (Li Dong). These terms signal the transition from one season to another and are significant for farmers to prepare for the upcoming changes in weather and agricultural tasks.
The Seasons in Between include terms such as “Grain Rains” (Gu Yu) and “White Dew” (Bai Lu). These terms represent specific weather conditions or natural phenomena that occur during the transitional periods between seasons. Farmers use these terms to guide their planting, irrigation, and pest control activities.
The Storing of Food includes terms such as “Great Heat” (Da Shu) and “Winter Solstice” (Dong Zhi). These terms indicate the time when people should gather and store food for the coming winter. It was crucial for agrarian societies to manage their food reserves to last through the colder months.
In addition to their practical agrarian significance, the 24 solar terms also have cultural and traditional meanings in Chinese society. They reflect the deep connection between Chinese people and the natural world and are often associated with specific customs and festivals.
Overall, the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar system serve the purpose of guiding agricultural activities and serving as a cultural compass, ensuring harmony with the rhythm of nature and promoting sustainable farming practices.