(THE CUSTOM OF DABBING A LIONäó_ EYES IN A SOUTH LION DANCE PERFORMANCE)

The Lion Dance is a traditional dance of the Chinese that is performed during celebrations or during festival seasons like Chinese New Year and events, be it cultural, religious or weddings. There are two types of lion dance; the North Lion and the South Lion. In Malaysia the South Lion Dance is the choice as it is more entertaining.

Drum music is played before the custom of dabbing the lion eyes begins as a sign of giving it soul and bravery. This custom begins by tying a ribbon to the lion that symbolizes good health and wealth.

The ingredients used are pamelo leaves with the purpose of dispelling bad fate, ginger to expel bad winds, red powder to evict bad soul and a white brush that signifies purity. These ingredients are placed on a red plate. Then, with the use of the brush, the ingredients are dabbed onto the lion eyes, ears, nose, mouth, body, both legs and forehead.

The Chinese believe that a lion that has not undergone this ritual is considered a wild lion, while a lion that has gone through it officially will bring good fate.