1. Historical Origins

The origin of the double happiness character (双喜) is widely attributed to a popular legend involving Wang Anshi, a renowned statesman and literary figure from the Northern Song Dynasty.

According to legend, the young scholar Wang Anshi encountered a poetic challenge on a revolving lantern at the Ma family's gate while traveling to the imperial examination. The inscription read: "The revolving lantern moves; the horse on it gallops. When the lantern goes out, the horse halts." The family sought a talented match for their daughter, promising her hand to whoever could complete the couplet. Later, during his exam interview in Bianjing, the examiner presented Wang Anshi with the second line inspired by the Flying Tiger Flag: "The flying tiger flag flutters; the tiger on it soars. When the flag furls, the tiger hides." Wang Anshi immediately recognized the perfect pairing and offered the Ma family's line as the first half, impressing the examiner with his wit.

After succeeding in the examination, Wang Anshi returned to the Ma family and used the examiner's line as his response to the lantern challenge, winning the daughter's approval. During their wedding, news arrived of his imperial exam success, creating a joyous double celebration. To commemorate the moment, Wang Anshi inscribed the linked "喜" (double happiness) character on red paper and attached it to the door, a gesture that originated the enduring tradition of displaying the red double happiness symbol during weddings and festive occasions.

2.Culture & Meaning

The double happiness character, also known as "囍," is a highly symbolic and auspicious icon in traditional Chinese culture, carrying profound cultural meaning and historical origins.

At its core, the character represents "double happiness arriving at the door," symbolizing the joyful wish for good things to come in pairs and happiness multiplied. This special symbol, formed by combining two "喜" (happiness) characters, features a balanced, symmetrical structure—steady and upright, resembling a man and woman standing side by side hand in hand. It signifies the union of marriage and the promise of a harmonious family life.

Structurally, the double happiness character contains four "口" (mouth) components, representing not only the joy of the couple but also the hope for many descendants and a thriving, happy family. In traditional Chinese wedding customs, a single "喜" character is often posted on the gate when a daughter marries out, while the double "囍" is used when a son brings a bride into the household. Passersby can immediately recognize that a joyful celebration is taking place by observing these symbols.