1. Sons-in-Law Should Not Visit the Grave
Why Sons-in-Law Are Not Encouraged to Visit Graves
Ancestral worship is a traditional ritual that expresses the piety of descendants towards the deceased. Remembering and praying for ancestors’ blessings for their descendants’ peace and prosperity is a natural spiritual need. An untended grave often signifies a family in decline, without successors.
Thus, the ancients said, “There are three types of unfilial children, and not continuing the family line is the worst.” In traditional beliefs, continuing the family line is of utmost importance, representing the continuity of the clan.
Therefore, any family with a son would not want outsiders to participate in ancestral worship. Although sons-in-law are considered “half-sons,” in the context of the clan, they are still outsiders.
2. Elderly Over 70 Years Old
Qingming Festival is an occasion for descendants to show their piety by visiting their ancestors’ graves. However, the somber atmosphere of the cemetery and the heavy emotions of grave visitors can negatively impact the well-being of the elderly, especially those over 70.
For those in this age group, traveling to the cemetery, especially in the early morning as the sun rises, can be hazardous. Moreover, according to the belief, “It is a rare blessing for a person to live past 70,” the elderly often reminisce about the past and may feel saddened when contemplating their mortality.
With frail health and limited endurance, grave-visiting can be exhausting and lead to negative emotions, causing concern for their descendants.
Elderly Over 70 Years Old Are Advised Not to Visit Graves
3. Children Under 3 Years Old
Qingming Festival is a time to show reverence to ancestors, and grave-visiting should be conducted solemnly, avoiding noise or laughter. Children under three years old do not understand the significance of grave-visiting, and bringing them to the cemetery may lead to running, playing, or even climbing on graves, which is highly disrespectful to the deceased.
Moreover, gravesites are places of heavy yin energy, especially in the early morning, and it can be chilling. Children under three years old have weak immune systems and are easily affected, leading to fever and unstable mental states.
The information in this article is for reference only
The Ultimate Guide to Ancestor Worship: Tết Thanh Minh Rituals for 2024 and Beyond
The Qingming Festival is a time-honored tradition that showcases reverence for ancestors. Here, we present the quintessential guide to the rituals and offerings for this solemn occasion, both at home and at the gravesite.
The Ultimate Guide to Preparing an Offerings Tray for Thanh Minh (Clearing Brightness) Festival 2024: Outdoor and Indoor Traditions.
On the Thanh Minh Festival, which falls on the fourth of April (26th day of the second lunar month), Vietnamese people prepare an altar at home and at their ancestors’ gravesite to pay homage. The altar typically consists of savory or vegetarian dishes, mock money, and other offerings.
The 7 Superstitions to Avoid on Qingming Festival for a Fortunate Year Ahead
To ward off bad luck for the rest of the year, it is imperative to be mindful of certain taboos during Qingming Festival. Refrain from revelry, don muted colors instead of vibrant attire, and forgo travel plans to honor the solemnity of this occasion.
After the Clear and Bright Festival, remember not to bring these things back to avoid bringing bad luck and sickness.
Grave visiting is a traditional activity of Vietnamese people to honor their ancestors during the festival of Tomb Sweeping Day. However, there are certain things that you should be aware of in order to avoid bad luck.
Folklore: Tiết Thanh Minh, avoid visiting graves, or you will invite bad luck, family conflicts and illnesses.
Tomb sweeping is a beautiful tradition observed during the Qingming Festival, but according to ancient wisdom, these individuals should refrain from participating in this practice.
