Wishing lamp – intangible cultural heritage

Wishing lanterns (also known as Kongming lanterns or sky lanterns) are traditional tools for praying and blessing. By igniting the candles or wax blocks inside the lantern, it generates lift and carries the written wishes into the night sky. Here is some information and instructions on how to make one:

I. Cultural Origin and Implication
Historical origin: It is said that it was invented by Zhuge Liang during the Three Kingdoms period. It was originally used for military communication and later evolved into a carrier for praying for blessings.
Symbolic meaning: It symbolizes harvest, success, and happiness, and is commonly seen during festivals such as Yuanxiao (Filled round balls made of glutinous rice-flour for Lantern Festival) and Mid-Autumn Festival.
Modern controversy: Due to the potential fire hazard, the use of fireworks has been banned in some areas.

 

许愿灯（又称孔明灯、天灯）是一种传统祈福工具，通过点燃灯内蜡烛或蜡块产生升力，承载书写的心愿飞向夜空。以下是相关信息和制作方法：

一、文化起源与寓意
历史渊源‌：相传由三国时期诸葛亮发明，最初用于军事通讯，后演变为祈福载体。
象征意义‌：象征丰收、成功与幸福，常见于元宵节、中秋节等节日。
现代争议‌：因存在火灾隐患，部分区域已禁止燃放。