Why Burn Banana Incense?
Why bananas for incense burning?
It is a common curiosity as to why bananas are used for incense burning. Bananas are a beloved fruit, especially during festive occasions such as the full moon, the first day of the lunar month, or holidays. For many families, bananas are an integral part of important celebrations, often taking center stage on the five-fruit platter, surrounded by other fruits.
In Vietnamese culture, banana trees are intimately tied to agricultural life. Bananas are affordable, easily accessible, and embody the essence of Vietnam. Offering bananas and burning incense goes beyond mere fruit or produce offerings; it symbolizes a plea for spiritual protection. The shape of a banana bunch represents shelter and support, attracting wealth and bringing good fortune.
The intrigue behind banana incense burning.
Taboos to Observe When Using Bananas for Incense Burning
There are various taboos that are commonly shared among the people regarding the offering of bananas for incense burning.
Choosing the right banana variety: There are multiple types of bananas, such as Western bananas, royal bananas, and taro bananas. People in Northern Vietnam tend to favor long, curved bananas, whereas Central Vietnam generally avoids royal bananas and those offered to kings. Thus, it is advisable to select the type of banana that aligns with your region.
Avoid burning banana incense at cemeteries: Bananas are not recommended to be brought along when visiting cemeteries for incense burning. Bananas are typically placed on home altars, and ancient wisdom warns that bananas might attract negative energy in such a setting.
Steer clear of bruised bananas: When burning incense, it is imperative to use a whole banana bunch, without detaching individual fruits. Banana bunches that are missing fruits or are bruised are also not suitable. To maintain solemnity and reverence, refrain from assembling multiple banana bunches for incense burning.
The importance of using intact banana bunches for incense burning.
Selecting Bananas
When choosing bananas for incense burning, opt for ripe bananas that are plump but not fully mature. Overripe bananas tend to fall off the stem, detracting from the aesthetic of the offering. Slightly under-ripe bananas will provide the necessary firmness to support other fruits.
Additionally, select banana bunches with an odd number of fruits, as odd numbers symbolize yang energy, bringing luck and prosperity. Even numbers, on the other hand, represent yin energy and are not typically considered auspicious.
When purchasing bananas, ensure they don’t come into contact with the ground. While cleaning the bananas, remove any dirt or grime, but refrain from wetting the bananas before placing them on the tray.
The Ancestral Guide to Incense Offering: 3 Taboos of Lighting Banana Incense to Attract Wealth and Fortune
When choosing bananas for offerings, be sure to avoid these three major taboos, lest you offend the God of Wealth.
