Why the Fear of the West Direction?
The main entrance’s direction determines the house’s orientation. Building a house facing the west means welcoming the western sun and its heat. In the past, people avoided this harsh sunlight as it caused discomfort and negatively impacted their daily lives. During the summer, the intense afternoon sun could make the house unbearably hot, leading to health issues such as illnesses and body fatigue.
As a result, ancestors went to great lengths to build their houses facing south or southeast, with north being the next best option. They strongly avoided the west, sometimes even opting for an inward-facing layout instead of following the road. The oppressive heat from the western sun could also damage household items.
The ancient homes, often made of wood with thatched or leafy roofs, would absorb the heat, making it difficult to cool down at night. This led to an uncomfortable and exhausting sleeping environment. Consequently, the aesthetics of a west-facing house were also considered unappealing due to the dry and harsh conditions.
From a spiritual and feng shui perspective, the west is associated with the setting sun, symbolizing decline and stagnation rather than growth and prosperity. This belief led to a strong fear of building houses facing the west, with the south being considered the most auspicious direction, providing coolness in summer and warmth in winter, along with ample natural light.
Why the Concern About Facing Doors?
When two doors are directly aligned, either within a house (front and back doors or a door and a window) or between two neighboring houses, it is considered a “facing door” situation. This arrangement is believed to cause financial losses and conflicts between the households.
From a practical standpoint, a facing door configuration can make a house less aesthetically pleasing and less private. The constant airflow can result in extreme temperatures during winter and summer, requiring the doors to be kept closed, which can be inconvenient and uncomfortable.
Modern Perspective
Even today, the belief that a south-facing house is more favorable than a west-facing one persists, and the concern about facing doors remains a consideration. However, modern conveniences and adaptations have led to a shift in priorities. Many homeowners now prioritize having their houses face a major road, regardless of the direction.
Additionally, technological advancements, such as air conditioning, fans, and water-spraying systems, have mitigated the negative effects of the western sun. Some even believe that the strong sunlight and abundant natural light associated with a west-facing house can bring positive energy and brightness to the home.
Reference information for contemplation
The Three-Legged House: A Tale of Unity and Strength
In the realm of ancient beliefs, a house with a “three-legged” defect is thought to bring about a myriad of troubles for its inhabitants. This superstition suggests that those residing in such a home may encounter numerous obstacles and bad luck in their lives, with potential consequences even as dire as affecting the homeowners’ mortality.