Be Mindful of Feng Shui Taboos
Among the myriad of flowers, roses are one of the most popular and well-known flowers worldwide. Their beauty, elegance, and symbolism of love are undeniable. However, the cultivation of roses often involves heavy use of fertilizers, especially chicken manure, and pesticides to protect their delicate petals and leaves.
The intensive farming methods used to grow roses en masse can result in an accumulation of negative energy from the environment, which may then be transferred to the home altar when offered as a religious offering. This could potentially disrupt the spiritual harmony of the ancestral worship space.
Additionally, many rose varieties have sharp thorns, which, according to Feng Shui principles, can create negative energy, or ‘sha qi’. This is particularly pertinent when it comes to ancestral altars, as the spiritual energy of ancestors is believed to be less resilient than that of deities, and thus more susceptible to the harmful effects of sharp objects.
Furthermore, roses, being a symbol of romantic love, are more commonly used for decorative purposes rather than in ancestral worship, as they may be considered inappropriate or insufficiently solemn.
Precautions When Using Roses for Incense
If you grow your own roses organically, ensuring they are free from negative energy, then you can bypass these concerns. However, if you are purchasing roses, it is important to thoroughly clean the leaves, stems, and outer petals to remove any potential traces of chemicals.
For roses with thorns, it is advisable to carefully remove them before arranging the flowers in a vase.
Pay close attention to the leaves, as they are prone to fertilizer residue. A thorough rinse will ensure they are clean.
Trim the leaves to create a neat and tidy arrangement.
While roses come in a myriad of colors, it is advisable to stick to one color when using them for incense. Opt for roses with buds, as they symbolize offering and growth. Red roses are an ideal choice for ancestral altars, bringing a vibrant and auspicious energy to the space.
When arranging roses for incense, stick to one variety and color to maintain a sense of solemnity. Choose rose stems with buds and new growth to symbolize prosperity and good fortune entering the home.
When offering incense to ancestors, it is advisable to avoid white and yellow roses, as well as roses that change color. Also, refrain from using drooping rose varieties, as they may suggest a lack of vitality and positivity from a Feng Shui perspective.
Disclaimer: This information is based on spiritual beliefs and practices.