In Vietnamese folk culture, there are intriguing beliefs about household items that are thought to bring good fortune and prosperity when they are old and even worn out. These items are not just ordinary possessions but are imbued with spiritual significance, symbolizing endurance, accumulation, and blessings. Here are three possessions that are believed to bring wealth precisely because of their age, along with the reasons why they are cherished.
Bronze Pots and Pans
Bronze pots or cooking utensils have long been a symbol of resilience and longevity in Vietnamese families. Old bronze pots, even if they are warped or tarnished, are often seen as a testament to the diligence and perseverance of the homeowner. According to folk beliefs, an old bronze pot signifies a family with a strong foundation, where generations have used and cherished it together.
Retaining an old bronze pot not only demonstrates frugality but also holds Feng Shui significance: bronze is a precious metal, symbolizing wealth and stability. A battered bronze pot that is still in use indicates a family that values hard work and doesn’t squander their possessions, thus attracting good luck and abundance.
Old Ancestral Altars
Ancestral altars are familiar fixtures in many traditional Vietnamese homes, especially in rural areas. An old but well-maintained ancestral altar showcases simplicity and signifies strong family bonds and harmony. Folk beliefs hold that old altars symbolize everlasting endurance.
Moreover, altars are often made from natural wood, closely connected to the earth and heaven, and are thus believed to bring energy balance to the home. A well-preserved old altar made from quality wood that has withstood the test of time without termite damage or cracks is seen as a sign of enduring family wealth and prosperity.
Long-Standing Family Heirlooms
Feng Shui items, antique family heirlooms, even if old or faded, are still used and considered symbols of accumulation and prudent financial management. In Feng Shui, old family heirlooms that contain money are believed to “hold luck” better than new wallets that are frequently replaced. It is thought that a home with old family heirlooms indicates the presence of the homeowner’s financial energy, helping to retain wealth and prevent money from leaking away.
Using well-worn family heirlooms reflects the homeowner’s lack of ostentation, their appreciation for what they have, and their avoidance of wasteful spending. This creates a positive energy that attracts prosperity and good fortune in life.
Information provided is for reference only
