Ancestor worship is a long-standing and meaningful cultural tradition for Vietnamese people, deeply rooted in the value of “remembering the source when drinking water.”
The ancestor altar is usually adorned solemnly with an incense bowl, a worshiping vase, worshiping lamp, flower vase, fruit tray, and various other objects, among which are a jar of salt and a jar of rice. However, not many people understand the symbolic significance of these two jars on the altar.
The Meaning of the Rice and Salt Jars on the Ancestor Altar
The rice and salt jars are typically small, made of porcelain or ceramic, and placed respectfully on the ancestor altar or the altar of the Gods of Wealth and Land.
These jars symbolize abundance and happiness while also serving to ward off evil spirits. Combining material and spiritual elements, the rice and salt jars on the altar represent an inseparable harmony.
The rice and salt jars are typically made of porcelain or ceramic and are placed respectfully on the ancestor altar or the altar of the Gods of Wealth and Land.
Rice, being the primary staple food for Vietnamese people, symbolizes life and prosperity. By placing the rice jar on the altar, the family wishes to pray for a life of abundance and sufficiency.
Salt, with its distinct salty taste, represents unity and strength. Folk beliefs hold that salt has the power to ward off evil spirits and bring peace to the family.
Expressing Gratitude to Ancestors
Placing the rice and salt jars on the altar is a way for descendants to express their gratitude for their ancestors’ nurturing and upbringing. It is also a plea for the ancestors’ blessings for a smooth and prosperous life for their descendants.
Ward Off Evil Spirits and Preserve Positive Energy
In feng shui, salt is believed to have sterilizing and evil-repelling properties. Placing the salt jar on the altar brings a sense of peace to the family and protects them from misfortune.
Creating Balance in Spiritual Life
The combination of rice (representing material abundance) and salt (symbolizing spiritual abundance) brings a sense of balance and harmony. This is an essential aspect of Vietnamese spiritual beliefs, contributing to a stable and fulfilling family life.
How to Place the Rice and Salt Jars
First, the homeowner should prepare porcelain or ceramic jars with lids, sized appropriately for the altar space.
Clean rice and salt, free from impurities, are then placed into the respective jars. Afterward, the rice and salt jars are positioned on the right or left corner of the altar, depending on the space and the homeowner’s arrangement.
Firstly, the homeowner should prepare porcelain or ceramic jars with lids, sized appropriately for the altar space.
When cleaning the worship space, the homeowner can use a soft, clean cloth to wipe the rice and salt jars and other objects on the altar, keeping them dust-free. It is also important to regularly check and replace the rice and salt when necessary to ensure freshness.
It is recommended to change the rice and salt on special occasions such as Lunar New Year, full moon days, or family worship ceremonies, to refresh the worship space and attract positive energy and luck.
- Do not use cracked or broken jars, as this is believed to bring bad luck.
- Prevent children or others from playing with or knocking over the rice and salt.
- Do not mix the rice and salt jars with unrelated objects on the altar.
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