Traditional Gifts Before Red Packets Became Popular

Gifts before red packets play a significant role in the history of gift-giving, especially before the modern tradition of red envelopes (ampao), which is now commonly seen on social media. For content creators, entrepreneurs, and passionate cultural advocates, understanding ancient ways of giving not only inspires but also opens a deeper understanding of the true spirit of celebration. In a time where everything moves fast, looking back at traditional practices is a way to showcase the importance of tradition and create more meaningful connections with the audience.

Exploring the History and Meaning of Gifts Before Red Packets

• We will discuss how the tradition of giving gifts began before the concept of red packets.
• We will explore the types of gifts traditionally given in different Asian countries, especially in China, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Korea.
• This will be accompanied by stories, context, and reasons why gift-giving in the past had more personal and meaningful significance.

Before Red Packets: A Glimpse into Ancient Gift-Giving Cultures

Before red packets became common, gifts before red packets were simple yet full of meaning. In ancient cultures, giving was not centered around money. Instead, it was tied to prayers, traditions, and blessings. For example, in ancient China, giving food such as tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) symbolized family unity and togetherness. In some provinces in the Philippines, giving fruits like oranges or guavas represented luck, prosperity, and an abundant harvest for the following year.

During those times, every offering mattered. It was not given casually but with the right timing, intention, and recognition of the recipient’s status. Gifts were given on special occasions like weddings, baptisms, parents’ anniversaries, and even harvests or town festivals. Sometimes, offerings were also made to express gratitude, show respect, or mark a new chapter in life, such as a new business or home.

The process of giving included rituals that deepened the bond between the giver and the receiver. Occasionally, the gift would be personally delivered with stories or poems that reminded everyone of the importance of helping and unity within the community.

Types of Traditional Gifts Across Regions Before Red Packets

In every culture across Asia, gifts before red packets had unique forms. Although their purpose—giving blessings and respect—was similar, their form and symbolism differed.

In China, common gifts included jewelry or gold, especially during weddings. This signified wealth and a lifelong union. During Chinese New Year celebrations, giving food items like dried fruits, nuts, and candies was especially valued as they symbolized sweetness and success.

In the Philippines, before the concept of red envelopes from the Chinese, rice was one of the most traditional gifts. For instance, a farming couple in Nueva Ecija shared how delighted they were when neighbors would give them a sack of rice as a wedding gift. Sometimes, women received practical gifts like blankets, plates, or mats—items useful for starting a new phase in life.

In Vietnam, giving tea or jade was widespread. Meanwhile, in Korea, embroidered cloth or accessories for the traditional hanbok were common gifts for debutantes or newlyweds.

Gifts from Elders to the Younger Generation Before Red Packets

In stories passed down by grandparents, there’s often a part of the occasion where elders give gifts to children. Gifts before red packets often carried deep meanings. They were echoes of blessings from the older generation to the next, representing not only joy but also guidance and love.

It was common for elders to give simple toys made from wood, handcrafted by their own hands, or clothes they had sewn themselves. These weren’t expensive, but they were full of care. Sometimes, they would share bread, candy, or dried fruits that were hard to find during the rainy season. These gifts came with a reminder: “I’m thinking of you in a simple way.”

The role of godparents (ninong and ninang) was also significant. Instead of money, they would give the child items for studying, shoes, or food for the whole family. This was a form of cooperation and care—not just during Christmas or New Year, but during various stages of a child’s life. These gifts were considered legacies of value: kindness should be passed on, not forgotten.

Nature of Gifts Before Monetary Culture

In ancient China, money was not central to every transaction, and gifts before red packets carried more emotional and spiritual significance. For example, a bottle of homemade wine or preserved fruits could be a wedding gift, symbolizing goodwill and blessing. Sharing homemade snacks with neighbors during festivals was another way of offering a gift—one that represented community spirit and gratitude.

In some regions of China, bartering was also practiced. For instance, a family might give rice in exchange for vegetables or fish. This exchange was not only about fulfilling needs but also about strengthening the bond between people. It was more about the mutual recognition and trust shared between neighbors or friends than the actual goods exchanged.

Gifts in those times were heartfelt, given without expectation of anything in return, except the joy of connection and shared happiness. The process of selecting, preparing, and personally delivering a gift was an expression of a culture that valued emotional connection over material worth.

Influence of Time and Technology on the Evolution of Gifts

As time passed, the red envelope slowly emerged as a new form of gift-giving. Due to the spread of trade, urbanization, and technology, giving money became more practical. It was quicker, easier, and suited the fast-paced nature of life. In cities, it became a symbol of modern social interactions—something that could be easily sent without a personal face-to-face meeting.

Gifts before red packets gradually gave way to a cash-based system. Instead of bringing rice or baskets of fruit, many people now simply give red envelopes. In some ways, the rituals of wrapping gifts, sharing stories, and personally delivering them to the recipient’s home have disappeared. The opportunity for creating closer and more meaningful connections between the giver and receiver has also diminished.

However, this doesn’t mean that red envelopes are of lesser value. They’re merely a transformation in form, but the intent behind the giving remains—offering blessings and love. And in the digital age, the simple message that accompanies a red envelope can serve as a bridge to maintain the feeling of connection and respect.

Remaining Gift Traditions in Some Communities Today

Some communities in China still uphold the tradition of giving gifts before red packets. In rural areas, red envelopes are not as commonly used, and the practice of giving vegetables, fruits, or even homegrown flowers remains prevalent. At weddings, guests often bring staples such as bread, rice, eggs, and other practical items to support the newlywed couple.

In certain modern families, a blend of traditional and contemporary practices is observed. For example, a family may follow the custom of offering food to children before giving them a red envelope. Food is seen as a symbol of prosperity, while the red envelope represents financial support.

Many elders also believe that the essence of gift-giving should be revived, emphasizing the value of each offering, regardless of its size. They stress that the spirit of personal connection behind each gift should never be forgotten.

The True Value of Gifts Then and Now

The history of gifts before red packets highlights the depth of the gift-giving culture. Amid modernization, it is essential to reflect on why we give, not just for the value of the content, but for connection, respect, and sharing from the heart.

Red packets have become a part of our culture, but the tradition will be more meaningful if we also embrace the spirit of gifts from the past—simple, heartfelt, and rooted in our origins. Returning to the roots of gifts before red packets serves as a reminder that the most important gift is the display of care and remembrance for one another.