As one of the oldest civilizations on earth, Chinese people have thousands of years of history and culture. Not surprisingly, Chinese traditions are often intertwined with religion and superstitions. You may have seen gold coins and bamboos that represent wealth and good luck; sometimes even the way furniture is arranged is steeped in the belief of energy forces around us.

Many times this can be a hard line to walk as a Christian, balancing the nuances of culture while honoring God and our faith. But don’t fret! We’ve rounded up some Christian-friendly Lunar New Year greetings to say to your friends and family. 

新年快樂 | Happy New Year

Cantonese: san1 nin4 faai3 lok6

Mandarin: xīn nián kuài lè

This is your standard greeting for anyone, anytime during the holiday season! You can’t go wrong with this one. 

身體健康 | (May you) Be Healthy

Cantonese: san1 tai2 gin6 hong1

Mandarin: shēn tǐ jiàn kāng

Who wouldn’t want to be wished good health? This is another classic new year greeting for everyone you meet. 

步步高升| (May you) Make Steady Progress

Cantonese: bou6 bou6 gou1 sing1

Mandarin: bù bù gāo shēng

Yet another commonly used phrase to wish people progress in their endeavors. For Christians, it holds an additional meaning as we press on with our eyes on Jesus. 

I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. 

Philippians 3:14 NLT

常常喜樂 | Rejoice Always

Cantonese: soeng4 soeng4 hei2 lok6

Mandarin: cháng cháng xǐ lè

Always be joyful.
1 Thessalonians 5:16

福杯滿溢 | (May your) Cup Overflow with Blessings

Cantonese: fuk1 bui1 mun5 jat6

Mandarin: fú bēi mǎn yì

You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 

Psalms 23:5 NLT

Now that you have these phrases in your vocabulary arsenal, ditch the “Gong Hey Fat Choy” and share God’s blessings with one another!