Raising the Ridgepole (Shàng Liáng)
The moment when the main ridge beam is raised onto the columns, traditionally the most critical step in house construction.
This refers to the process of placing the largest and most central ridge beam (the main beam) onto the tops of the columns after they have been erected. It is the most symbolic step in traditional timber-frame construction, signifying the completion of the main structure, akin to a 'capping ceremony'. Traditionally, an auspicious day must be chosen, and the ceremony is especially solemn, often accompanied by rituals, posting auspicious couplets, and tossing cakes, all to pray for the house's permanence and the family's safety.