Water is the source of life, and as such, it is an essential offering when praying to deities and ancestors. While flowers and fruits may be omitted on certain occasions, water is a must, especially in Vietnamese culture, where a glass of water often initiates a conversation.
Water is a vital offering during every prayer session. Depending on the family’s preference and tradition, they may use a water set or a simple glass for this purpose. Families who purchase a matching altar set often opt for a water set, which includes a water pitcher and cups specifically designed for religious purposes. Alternatively, families with a more straightforward approach may use regular glasses to hold the water. Typically, one, three, or five glasses of water are used, so water sets usually come in sets of three or five cups to accommodate these needs. Families can then choose the set that best fits the size of their altar.
Water is an essential offering on altars.
Where should the water be placed on the altar?
When using a water set or glasses, the placement on the ancestor and deity altars is typically in front of the incense burner and fruit plate. The water set is usually positioned centrally on the altar, neither left nor right. If there are three incense burners, the water set should be placed in front of the middle one. On a Buddhist altar, the placement of the water set is more flexible and can be placed on either the left or right side. Additionally, Buddhist altars often feature glass cups filled with water, symbolizing a mirror for self-reflection and improvement for Buddhists.
The water set is typically placed in the center, in front of the incense burner and fruit plate.
In the case of using a set of jars for water, rice, and salt, this set is usually placed on the ancestor and deity altars, in front of the incense burner but behind the fruit plate. This set differs from the water set or glasses and is typically prepared at the beginning of the year and left untouched for the entire year, with refills added as needed. In contrast, the water set or glasses are replaced after each prayer session. In the set of jars, the water jar is placed in the center, with the salt and rice jars on either side, forming a horizontal row in front of the incense burner but behind the fruit plate.
If additional water bottles are used, they are placed behind the fruit plate but in front of and on either side of the incense burner. This placement not only adheres to aesthetic considerations but also aligns with the principles of worshipping feng shui, representing a balance on the altar and symbolizing the harmony of the five elements, as well as the family’s aspirations for wealth, prosperity, and good fortune.
This information is based on traditional beliefs and practices and may vary depending on regional customs and personal interpretations.
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