1. Spontaneous Combustion of the Ancestral Tablet
On the altar, the ancestral tablet is usually placed near the ancestral plaque. If one day the ancestral tablet suddenly catches fire without any apparent cause, it is a cause for concern. In many cases, the cause may be dry incense sticks igniting from the burning incense.
However, according to folk beliefs, the phenomenon of the ancestral tablet burning slowly from within, without erupting into a large flame, and the incense sticks sinking, is considered a spiritual omen. In such cases, it is advisable to review any issues within the family, ancestral temple, or ancestor’s grave to facilitate timely resolution.
2. Cracks on the Altar Surface
If the altar surface cracks, especially at the spot where the ancestral tablet is placed or in the center of the altar, it is considered an ill omen that the homeowner should heed. In this situation, it is advisable to replace the altar surface or use wood glue to mend the crack, ensuring that the crack does not extend further.
Following the repair, the homeowner should prepare a small offering to re-establish the altar and pray for peace for the entire family.
3. Front of the Altar Tilting Downward
The front of the altar tilting or sloping downward is often due to design flaws, termite damage, or poor wood quality. Upon detection, immediate action is necessary to avoid impacting the feng shui of the space.
According to feng shui beliefs, an altar tilting downward signifies potential financial difficulties for the family. Homeowners should exercise caution in their spending and investments and ensure that the altar remains sturdy, prioritizing durability and stability even when opting for aesthetically pleasing designs.
4. Sweating or Tilting of the Ancestor’s Photo
If the ancestor’s photo suddenly tilts or exhibits “sweating” (the appearance of water droplets on the surface), the homeowner should promptly inspect and adjust its position. This phenomenon typically occurs during the humid season, when high humidity causes water condensation on the photo’s surface, giving it the appearance of shedding tears.
In feng shui, this is interpreted as a sign of excessive water energy in the home, foretelling potential risks and instability in the family’s life. During this period, the homeowner should pay attention to their health, finances, and relationships.
5. Moldy or Spoiled Offerings
When offerings become moldy or spoiled within a short period, even in moderate weather conditions, the homeowner should reflect on the way they prepare and present the offerings and their attitude during worship.
According to folk beliefs, this phenomenon indicates a lack of sincerity or attention to detail in offering rituals. While expensive offerings are not necessary, demonstrating reverence and solemnity is of utmost importance in ancestor worship and deity veneration.
6. Fallen or Collapsed Altar
Nowadays, many families opt for wall-mounted altars to save space, but this setup also poses a risk of the altar falling or collapsing if not securely installed. Apart from being a physical hazard, such an incident is also considered a bad omen in feng shui, signifying potential adversity for the homeowner.
However, panic is not the appropriate response. It is crucial to remain calm, clean up the mess, and re-establish the altar with careful attention to stability. Subsequently, perform a ceremony to re-establish the altar and pray for peace for the family, expressing sincerity to the ancestors, deities, and seeking resolution for the misfortune.
Methods to Rectify Negative Omens Related to the Altar
According to feng shui expert Nguyen Song Ha, when encountering any of the aforementioned omens, the homeowner should take the following steps:
1. Thoroughly Review Issues Within the Household
Firstly, inspect all relevant spaces, including the altar, ancestral temple, and ancestor’s grave, to identify and address any problems promptly.
2. Perform a Peace Prayer at the Ancestral Altar
Conduct a simple yet solemn peace prayer to seek tranquility for all family members. Prepare an offering tray consisting of five types of fruit, fresh flowers, betel and areca nuts, clean water, a plate of rice and salt. If possible, include a meal for the ancestors (sticky rice, pork pie, soup, etc.) according to the family’s means.
3. Purify the Living Space with Five-Spice Water
Boil a pot of water infused with five-spice powder and ginger, and use it to clean the altar, kitchen, and bedrooms. Subsequently, use the clear water remaining in the pot to wipe the areas again to enhance the purification effect.
Additionally, fumigate the house with ingredients like star anise, cinnamon, and lemongrass at crucial locations such as the main entrance, balcony, and room corners to dispel negative energy and invigorate the house with positive chi.
4. Proceed with Caution When Re-establishing or Replacing the Altar
If relocation, repair, or reconstruction of the altar is necessary, perform the altar consecration ritual meticulously. For the Wealth Gods (God of Wealth and God of Earth), in addition to the basic offerings, prepare steamed buns with meat filling (one for each deity) and a small dish of roasted pig as proper offerings.
Prayer for Consecrating the Altar
Homage to Amitabha Buddha (3 times, 3 bows)
I bow to the Nine Heavens, the Ten Directions of Buddha, and the Ten Directions of Buddha.
I bow to the Future Buddha Maitreya.
I bow to the Emperor of Heaven, Queen Mother of the West, and all the deities.
I bow to the current year’s Wu Wang Xing Jian, Tian Hai Chi Shen, Xu Cao Pan Guan.
I bow to the local City God and all the Great Kings.
I bow to the Five Directions, Five Emperors, Five Mountains, Holy Emperors, Twenty-Four Guardians, Earth Vein Gods, Five Directions Dragon Vein Gods, Central Gods, Green Dragon Gods, Zhu Zhuo Gods, Black Warrior Gods, White Tiger Gods, and all the gods who govern them.
I bow to the Five Blessings Gods: Blessings, Longevity, Health, Happiness, and Peace.
I bow to the local Earth God and the Earth God.
I bow to the Earth God and all the gods who govern this area.
We offer incense, flowers, and sweets to the gods and present them before the case, offering them to the gods of Heaven and Earth.
The gods’ brilliant aura and vast grace. The majestic throne of ten thousand feet, the righteous position of the ten directions, the virtue of respect, and the virtue of respect.
With our sincere hearts, we invite you to join us on this auspicious day and month to enshrine the incense burners and worship the gods, including the Emperor of Heaven, Queen Mother of the West, Earth God, Earth God, God of Wealth, Earth God, Five Directions Gods, Five Directions Dragon Vein Gods, Central Gods, Green Dragon Gods, Zhu Zhuo Gods, Black Warrior Gods, White Tiger Gods, and Five Blessings Gods: Blessings, Longevity, Health, Happiness, and Peace. We pray for the gods’ blessings, the removal of disasters, and good fortune for our family.
The holy one who answers the incense lot: “I respectfully invite the Five Directions Earth God, Earth God, God of Wealth, the Earth God of the East Kitchen, the Earth God of the Táo Temple, the Earth God of the Five Directions, and the Five Directions Earth God” (clap and pray 3 times)
Please come down to witness our sincerity and enjoy the offerings.
May we all be happy and prosperous, and may our descendants be healthy and strong.
May the local City God and the gods above protect our company, promote prosperity and peace, financial prosperity, good health, harmony, and unity. From the beginning to the middle and end of the year, may our endeavors be successful, and may all our wishes be granted.
With our sincere prayers, we ask the gods to witness and protect us.
Homage to Amitabha Buddha (3 times, 3 bows)
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