God of Wealth, who oversees the finances and valuables of families, is worshiped by Vietnamese people. On the 10th of every lunar month, families, especially those in business, often prepare an offering to the God of Wealth, praying for his blessings and good fortune in the new year.
Thus, the customs and rituals on this day are carefully observed, and among them are 5 things you must not forget to do.
1 Clean the Altar
Clean the altar
Before making any offerings, thoroughly clean the altar of the God of Wealth. It is recommended to purify the area with either pomelo leaves or diluted alcohol mixed with clean water.
The cleaning tools and purification items should be exclusive for this purpose and not used for anything else. Also, try to avoid moving the incense pot during the cleaning process.
2 Pay Attention to the Altar’s Placement
Pay attention to the altar’s placement
The altar of the God of Wealth should not be placed in front of a bathroom door or near a trash bin or women’s clothing. This is considered an act of defiling and disrespecting the God. The area around the altar of the God of Wealth and the Earth God must always be kept clean.
For reference:
3 Prepare Offerings for the God of Wealth
The offerings for the God of Wealth include both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. From the first to the sixth lunar month, non-vegetarian offerings are made, while the remaining months are reserved for vegetarian offerings. Here’s what you need to prepare for both types of offerings:
Prepare offerings for the God of Wealth
Non-Vegetarian Offerings from the First to the Sixth Lunar Month
The non-vegetarian offerings typically include 1 vase of chrysanthemum flowers, 5 types of fruits including a coconut, 5 incense sticks, 5 cups of rice wine, 2 candles, 2 cigarettes, gold and silver paper, and 2 pieces of each.
Additionally, prepare a set of three dishes: 1 piece of pork, 1 duck, and 1 crab or shrimp, all boiled.
Vegetarian Offerings from the Seventh to the Twelfth Lunar Month
For the vegetarian offerings in the latter half of the year, you’ll need 1 vase of chrysanthemum flowers, 5 types of fruits including a coconut, 5 incense sticks, 5 cups of water, 2 candles, 2 cigarettes, rice, rock salt, gold and silver paper, and 2 pieces each. Prepare vegetarian cakes such as bánh ít and bánh tét.
For reference: What is the God of Wealth’s birthday? What should I buy on this day?
4 Recite the Correct Prayer for the God of Wealth
Recite the correct prayer for the God of Wealth
Reciting the correct prayer is of utmost importance to invite the God of Wealth’s presence. During the ceremony, it is customary to recite the prayer aloud to invite the God’s blessings for a prosperous and lucky new year.
For reference: 3 traditional and authentic prayers
5 Things to Keep in Mind on the God of Wealth’s Birthday
Things to keep in mind on the God of Wealth’s birthday
Similar to other spiritual customs of the Vietnamese, there are certain things to avoid on the God of Wealth’s birthday to prevent financial losses.
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Clean the altar monthly and bathe the God of Wealth statue on the last day and the 14th of every lunar month using pomelo leaves or diluted alcohol. Use a separate cloth for cleaning and bathing the statue, and do not use it for anything else.
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When lighting incense, remember to change the water in the flower vase and drinking cups, among other things.
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After the ceremony, store the rice and salt for future use instead of scattering them outside.
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Do not let dogs or cats disturb the altar of the God of Wealth, as it is considered a grave offense.
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Burn the gold and silver paper outdoors.
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Pour the wine or water outside the door and into the house to symbolize inviting wealth and luck into the home.
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Share the three dishes or cakes with family members and avoid giving them to outsiders to keep the luck within the family.
The God of Wealth’s birthday is a significant day in Vietnamese spirituality, especially for those in business. It is customary to prepare meticulously for this day to invite wealth and prosperity throughout the year. So, don’t forget to mark this important date on your calendar.
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