Tips

The Flowers You Should Avoid Displaying on Your Ancestral Altar

Introducing the world of floral offerings, where not all vibrant and beautiful blooms are suitable for altar displays. Uncover the types of flowers that should be avoided when paying respects, and learn how to navigate the delicate balance between aesthetic appeal and cultural sensitivity in the realm of floral arrangements. Prepare to immerse yourself in a guide that transcends mere visual allure, as we explore the intricacies of floral etiquette.

Administrator

10 July, 2024

On special occasions such as the 1st and 15th day of the lunar month, death anniversaries, and other ceremonial days, a fresh flower vase is indispensable on the ancestral altar. According to ancient beliefs, flowers symbolize purity and are offered to ancestors and deities as a token of good wishes. Therefore, when choosing flowers for the altar, one must be cautious as certain types of flowers are considered inappropriate:

1Lily

Lily

The lily is a beautiful flower with an enchanting fragrance, but it is avoided on ancestral altars due to its association with separation and parting.

For reference: 6 types of flowers to avoid on the ancestral altar on the 23rd of the Chạp month

2Orchid

Although orchids are beautiful and long-lasting, they are not recommended for altars, especially Buddhist altars, as the word “phong” in Vietnamese is similar in meaning to “flirtatious” or “hedonistic”. If you wish to use orchids, it is advisable to do so during the Tet holiday, but only if there are no more suitable flower options available.

Orchid

3Plumeria

Plumeria

Plumeria, also known as frangipani, has a distinctive fragrance and vibrant colors. However, its shape resembles a sensitive female body part, and thus, it is not considered appropriate for the ancestral altar.

4Jasmine

Jasmine is regarded as a rebellious and inappropriate flower. Despite its beauty, fragrance, and symbolism of purity, it is still considered unsuitable for the ancestral altar.

Jasmine

5Marigold

Marigold

Marigolds are popular during the Tet holiday, especially in Southern Vietnam, where people believe they bring good luck and prosperity. However, these flowers are not recommended for the ancestral altar as they are associated with bad luck and have an unpleasant odor.

6Hibiscus

Hibiscus flowers come in various colors and are visually appealing, but due to the presence of the word “dâm” in their Vietnamese name, they are not considered appropriate for the ancestral or Buddhist altar.

Hibiscus

7Lotus

Lotus

Despite its beauty, the lotus flower is known for its short lifespan, blooming in the morning and wilting by nightfall. This fleeting nature is believed to represent a short life and is, therefore, an unsuitable choice for the ancestral altar.

8Artificial Flowers

While some families opt for artificial flowers to save costs, the ancestral altar is a sacred space that represents the descendants’ reverence for their ancestors. Offering artificial flowers is considered impure and, therefore, inappropriate for the altar.

Artificial Flowers

When choosing flowers for the ancestral altar, it is best to select the freshest and most beautiful flowers as a sign of respect. Suitable options include lilies, peonies, and peach blossoms. It is recommended to choose flowers with elegant names and a single color to maintain the solemnity of the altar.

Frequently asked questions

The choice of flowers displayed on your ancestral altar holds cultural and spiritual significance. Certain flowers are believed to bring good fortune and blessings, while others are associated with negative energy and misfortune. By selecting the right flowers, you pay respect to your ancestors and create a positive environment for spiritual practices.

You should avoid using white flowers, especially white chrysanthemums, as these are traditionally associated with funerals and mourning. Similarly, yellow flowers, such as sunflowers or marigolds, symbolize sadness and are often used in rituals for the deceased. Orchids, while beautiful, represent luxury and extravagance, which may be considered inappropriate for an ancestral altar.

Yes, red and pink flowers are generally considered auspicious and respectful choices. Roses, lotuses, and peonies in these colors symbolize life, vitality, and respect for your ancestors. Additionally, lilies, especially the pink or red varieties, represent purity and rebirth, making them suitable for honoring your ancestors.

Color plays a vital role in flower selection for ancestral altars. As mentioned earlier, white and yellow are colors of mourning and sadness, hence their avoidance. Red and pink represent life, energy, and respect, making them ideal choices. Other colors like purple and orange can also be considered, as they symbolize spirituality and happiness respectively.

While fresh flowers are always preferred, artificial flowers can be used if necessary. However, ensure that the artificial flowers are made from high-quality materials and resemble real flowers as closely as possible. The key is to maintain a sense of respect and dignity, so cheap or gaudy artificial flowers should be avoided.