Cleaning the ancestral altar is an important ritual during the end-of-year holidays. One must be cautious to avoid any mistakes that could bring bad luck to the family in the new year.
1. Using Unsanitary Tools:
It is essential to use fresh and clean tools exclusively for altar cleaning. This includes brooms, damp cloths, and dry cloths. According to tradition, using tools that are not clean or are used for everyday household chores may transfer negative energy and show disrespect to the ancestors.
Avoid using unclean tools
2. Choosing the Wrong Water Type:
While many families opt for cold water, the ideal choice is warm water infused with ginger. This shows respect and honor to the ancestors. If this mixture is not feasible, warm water alone is a perfectly acceptable alternative.
Opt for warm water with ginger when cleaning
Note:
3. Off-Center Incense Holder:
During the cleaning process, ensure that the incense holder stays in its original position and is not shifted or moved. Be gentle and cautious while cleaning around it to prevent any unnecessary disruptions.
Maintain the incense holder’s centered position
4. Misplacement of Worship Objects:
Every object on the altar holds symbolic significance and must be placed with precision. Prior to cleaning, make note of the exact locations of each object, either through memory, written notes, or photographs, to ensure their proper placement afterward.
Additionally, clean each section in a specific order: begin with the Buddhist altar, followed by the altar of the deities, the ancestral altar, and finally, the incense burner, tablets, and offerings.
Ensure all worship objects are correctly positioned
5. Improper Incense Stick Trimming:
For trimming incense sticks, prepare a new, clean spoon to collect the ashes into a container with small holes or a fine-mesh sieve to separate the fine ash. Clean the incense holder with five-spice water or scented water. Once dry, return the old ash to the holder.
Leave 3-5 incense sticks untrimmed, and wrap the used ones in clean paper. After burning, bury them under large trees. If you need to replace the incense holder, perform a respectful disposal ritual for the old one; do not discard it casually.
Trim incense sticks with care and respect
We hope this guide helps you navigate the dos and don’ts of cleaning your ancestral altar. Stay connected for more insightful content, and don’t forget to follow us for the latest updates!
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