When it comes to Lunar New Year flower arrangements, have you ever pondered the significance of the number of blooms? The number of flowers in a New Year floral display holds symbolic value related to feng shui, wealth, and luck, which are essential for a prosperous celebration. In this article, we will decipher these concepts and offer insightful tips for creating festive floral arrangements that align with traditional beliefs. Let’s delve into this fascinating topic and explore the auspicious side of floristry!
1. Unveiling the Auspicious Number of Flowers for a Lunar New Year Arrangement
In traditional Vietnamese culture, numerology plays a crucial role in bringing good fortune. Odd numbers such as 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are considered yang numbers, imbued with positive energy and the potential to attract luck. On the other hand, even numbers like 2, 4, 6, and 8 are viewed as yin numbers, associated with misfortune and bad luck. Therefore, when crafting a floral arrangement for the ancestral altar during the Lunar New Year, it is advisable to lean towards an odd number of flowers to invite prosperity into your home.
Odd numbers like 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are considered lucky charms, bringing positive energy to your home.
Feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice of harmonizing with the surrounding environment, also ascribes significance to the number of flowers in a vase. According to this philosophy, the arrangement of flowers can influence the flow of energy and bring luck to the homeowner in their endeavors.
If you were born in the years of the Serpent, Rooster, or Ox, arranging your flowers in groups of 9 will bring harmony to your life path. For those born in the years of the Pig, Rabbit, or Goat, groups of 6 flowers are ideal for attracting prosperity. If your birth year is associated with the Monkey, Rat, or Dragon, 7 flowers in a vase are said to invite good fortune. On the other hand, if you were born in the years of the Tiger, Horse, or Dog, 2 flowers will be sufficient to usher in luck and positivity.
2. Recommended Flowers for the Ancestral Altar to Usher in Good Fortune
Apricot Blossoms: A Festive Favorite
When spring arrives in Vietnam, especially during the Lunar New Year in the southern region, apricot blossoms are a must-have. A branch of golden apricot blossoms in a vase on the ancestral altar not only adds a touch of elegance and festive cheer but also symbolizes wealth and prosperity. It is believed that these blossoms ward off evil spirits and attract positive energy, fostering the well-being and good health of family members.
Apricot Blossoms: A Symbol of Festive Cheer and Prosperity
Peach Blossoms: Iconic and Auspicious
Alongside apricot blossoms, peach blossoms hold a special place in the Lunar New Year celebrations, particularly in Northern Vietnam. In feng shui, these blossoms are believed to ward off evil spirits and symbolize fertility and peace. Displaying peach blossoms in your home is thought to bring good fortune and tranquility to your family.
Peach Blossoms: A Symbol of Fertility and Peace
Golden Chrysanthemums: Vibrant and Fortunate
Golden chrysanthemums are another popular choice for the ancestral altar during festive occasions. Their vibrant and eye-catching golden hue captures the essence of celebration. In Vietnamese culture, chrysanthemums also symbolize longevity and filial piety, making them a meaningful addition to your floral display.
From a feng shui perspective, the color gold holds significant meaning. It represents the metal element, which is associated with wealth and prosperity. Displaying golden chrysanthemums in your home is believed to attract good fortune and enhance financial luck, making them a popular choice for those seeking monetary blessings.
Golden Chrysanthemums: A Symbol of Wealth and Longevity
Red Roses: A Romantic and Fortunate Gesture
Beyond their romantic connotations, red roses also hold a special significance in Vietnamese culture, signifying good fortune and prosperity. In feng shui, the color red is considered lucky and auspicious, often making an appearance during important festivals like the Lunar New Year. Displaying red roses on the ancestral altar is believed to bring blessings and smooth the path toward success and abundance.
Red Roses: A Symbol of Love, Fortune, and Prosperity
Alstroemeria: Graceful and Devoted
Alstroemeria, also known as Peruvian lilies or Inca lilies, are graceful flowers with tall, straight stems and delicate blooms. Their longevity and beauty, coupled with their symbolism of warmth and devotion, make them a popular choice for Lunar New Year floral arrangements.
Alstroemeria: Graceful Flowers with a Devoted Symbolism
This article has unveiled the auspicious numbers and flower choices for Lunar New Year arrangements, offering a blend of tradition and symbolism. We hope you found this information helpful and wish you a prosperous and joyful Lunar New Year filled with the beauty of flowers.