In Vietnamese culture, when preparing for a ceremony, it is common to offer incense, tea, betel, and fruits. Fruits symbolize sweetness, good luck, and the host’s hospitality. Therefore, when choosing fruits, it is best to avoid bitter, astringent, or pungent ones.
Watermelon, with its distinctive green rind and red, juicy flesh, is a refreshing and delicious treat. The sweet, cool flesh of a watermelon is refreshing, and even the rind and seeds have detoxifying and cooling properties, while the seeds are a fun and nutritious snack.
However, watermelons are considered inauspicious due to their growing nature, which is believed to be incompatible with the sacred space of an altar.
Watermelons grow close to the ground
Why Watermelons Are Considered Inappropriate for Ceremonies
Watermelons are creeping vine plants, and their fruits rest on the ground from the time they form until they are harvested. From a spiritual perspective, this prolonged contact with the earth may lead to the absorption of negative energy, especially considering the use of fertilizers and the potential for contamination from people stepping on or near the fruit.
Altars, on the other hand, are sacred spaces that require offerings to be clean and free from any negative influences. Additionally, as watermelons are often sold in piles on sidewalks, this further contradicts the concept of purity desired for ceremonial offerings.
Traditionally, fruits that grow on taller plants, such as bananas, pomelos, and persimmons, are preferred for ceremonies as they are believed to be less likely to absorb negative energy.
However, it is worth noting that some people do offer watermelons as a play on words, as the Vietnamese word for watermelon (“dưa”) sounds similar to the word for “abundance” (“dư”). So, the decision to offer watermelons may vary depending on individual family beliefs and traditions.
Some places do not consider watermelons taboo due to the play on words.
Considerations When Using Watermelon as an Offering
If you do not adhere to this taboo, here are some things to keep in mind when offering watermelon as a ceremonial fruit:
– Choose watermelons that are appropriately sized for your altar, especially if it is elevated. Avoid overly large or heavy fruits that may be difficult to handle or at risk of falling and causing damage.
– Do not leave the watermelon on the altar for extended periods, even if the outer rind appears fresh. In hot weather, the inner flesh can spoil quickly, especially if the altar is located in a warm area or high up.
– Before placing the watermelon on the altar, clean the outer surface to remove any dirt or contaminants. Then, dry it with a clean cloth to prevent continuous moisture contact, which can lead to faster spoilage.
– When selecting a watermelon, look for one with a hard rind and a small stem. This indicates a ripe and sweet fruit, ensuring a more pleasant offering.
This information is based on traditional beliefs and practices and may vary depending on regional customs and personal interpretations.
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