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“The Art of Incense and Floral Arrangements: Unveiling the Secrets of the Wealthy”

11 September, 2024

Flowers play a significant role in Vietnamese culture, especially during special occasions such as the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, festivals, and ancestral worship. A well-arranged floral display is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune while showing respect to the ancestors and deities.

Fresh flowers are seen as a symbol of new life and the essence of nature, bringing a sense of freshness and solemnity to the worship space.

The placement of a flower vase on the altar is thought to enhance the family’s fortune and attract the blessings of ancestors and Buddha. However, not everyone knows the proper way to arrange flowers on an altar.

Why do wealthy families usually place a flower vase on the left side of the altar when offering incense?

Wealthy families tend to pay close attention to worship rituals and often believe that arranging the altar according to feng shui principles demonstrates respect to their ancestors while inviting prosperity and good fortune.

Wealthy families often place a high importance on worship rituals and ceremonies.

When placing a single flower vase, it is typically positioned on the left side of the altar, following the principle of “east for vases and west for fruit plates.” This arrangement aligns with the natural order, as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, and flowers bloom before fruits appear.

For altars facing the main entrance, which is typically oriented towards the south, placing the flower vase on the left side (east) allows the fragrance of the flowers to permeate the room when the east or southeast wind blows, adding a sense of tranquility and solemnity to the worship space.

When using two flower vases, they should be placed symmetrically on both sides, with the fruit plate in the center, in front of the incense burner. This arrangement not only creates a warm and inviting atmosphere but also preserves the symbolic meaning of the flowers.

Symmetrical placement of flower vases on the altar.

In addition to the flower vases, the host should also pay attention to other worship items such as the three or five ceremonial objects, offering trays, and incense holders to enhance the solemnity of the worship space. For smaller altars, such as those hung on walls, a single flower vase and an incense holder placed opposite each other may be sufficient.

It is important to avoid overcrowding the altar with too many flower vases, as this may disrupt the balance with other worship items rather than enhancing the energy of the space.

When choosing a flower vase, opt for materials such as ceramic, porcelain, or glass, and avoid using metal vases. The flowers should have a gentle fragrance, be free of thorns, and be neatly trimmed to ensure both spiritual value and safety.

Frequently asked questions

The art of incense and floral arrangements is an ancient practice with a rich history, often associated with wealth and luxury. It involves the careful selection and arrangement of flowers and incense to create a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing display, often with symbolic meaning.

This art form adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to one’s surroundings. The scent of incense and the beauty of floral arrangements can create a calming and relaxing atmosphere, promoting a sense of well-being and harmony. It can also be a form of self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their unique taste and style.

The key considerations are the choice of flowers and incense, their arrangement, and the overall aesthetic appeal. The flowers should be fresh and of high quality, and the incense should be of a pleasant fragrance that complements the flowers. The arrangement should be well-balanced and harmonious, taking into account the colors, sizes, and shapes of the flowers and incense burners.

One can learn the basics of floral arrangement and incense selection through online resources, books, and classes. However, mastering the art form requires practice, experimentation, and a deep understanding of the symbolism and traditions associated with different flowers and incense types.

The wealthy often employ the use of rare and exotic flowers, custom-blended incense, and intricate arrangements. They may also incorporate valuable ornaments and artifacts into their displays, creating a sense of opulence and luxury. Additionally, they pay attention to the smallest details, ensuring that every element contributes to the overall harmony and beauty of the arrangement.