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The Mystical Significance of Buddha’s Hand Fruit: A Guide to Unlocking Its Secrets, Freshness, and Prosperity

The offering of Buddha's hand fruit is highly favored by many people, especially during Tet holiday. But what is the significance behind this fruit?

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11 February, 2024

The Buddha’s Hand Citron: A Fruit of Symbolic Significance and Cultural Importance

Buddha’s Hand Citron: A Unique Fruit

The Buddha’s Hand Citron is an intriguing fruit named for its distinctive shape, which resembles the hand of the Buddha. With its rough, bumpy skin and fragrant essential oils similar to those found in grapefruit, this citrus fruit is quite unlike any other. Inside, the flesh is spongy, like that of a pomelo, but without the segments.

In Buddhist culture, the Buddha’s Hand holds special significance. Its unique shape, resembling the hand of the Buddha, is deeply revered, especially among followers of Buddhism in Vietnam. It is believed that this fruit brings good fortune and blessings to those who display it in their homes or places of worship.

Originating from India, the Buddha’s Hand Citron has a long history of cultural and religious significance. Many people are unaware that this fruit is edible and, instead, often use it for religious purposes, allowing it to wither after burning incense. However, the Buddha’s Hand possesses similar medicinal properties to grapefruit and can be made into a delicious marmalade.

Selecting and Displaying the Buddha’s Hand Citron for Incense Burning

When choosing a Buddha’s Hand Citron for incense burning, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the fruit comes in various sizes, and some people prefer the larger fruits with more prominent “fingers” resembling an open hand, believed to attract wealth and prosperity. Others may favor a fruit with fingers curved inward, symbolizing an embrace of protection and care.

For incense burning, it is advisable to select a fruit that is ripe but not overripe, with a color ranging from green-yellow to golden yellow. Avoid fruits that are too green or overly mature, as they may not last as long. Choose a specimen that is free from sun damage, with evenly spaced and well-formed fingers. Longer fingers are generally considered more aesthetically pleasing.

When displaying the Buddha’s Hand, it can be placed on a separate plate or included in a tray of five types of fruit, a traditional offering in Vietnamese culture. If placed in a tray, the Buddha’s Hand should be positioned at the highest point as a sign of respect. To prolong the fruit’s lifespan, one effective method is to submerge the stem in a cup of water, ensuring that the fruit itself remains dry. This will encourage root growth and provide the fruit with a fresh water source, keeping it vibrant for several months.

Tips for Keeping the Buddha’s Hand Fresh

To maintain the freshness and vibrant color of the Buddha’s Hand Citron, it is recommended to clean the fruit with white alcohol instead of washing it with cold water before burning incense. Additionally, placing a small bowl of water and a few vitamin B1 tablets near the fruit on the altar can help extend its lifespan. The stem of the fruit will absorb the water, and the vitamins will provide additional nourishment.

The Buddha’s Hand Citron is not just a religious symbol but also a popular gift for special occasions such as birthday celebrations, grand openings, and housewarmings. It is commonly displayed in offices, administrative buildings, and even meeting rooms, as it is believed to bring good luck, health, and a positive outlook for the new year.

Frequently asked questions

The Buddha’s Hand Citron is a unique and intriguing citrus fruit named for its resemblance to the hand of the Buddha. It has a bumpy skin and fragrant essential oils, with spongy flesh similar to a pomelo.

In Buddhist culture, especially in Vietnam, the Buddha’s Hand is deeply revered. It is believed to bring good fortune and blessings, and is often displayed in homes or places of worship. The fruit is also used for incense burning and is considered a traditional offering in Vietnamese culture.

The Buddha’s Hand Citron originates from India and has a long history of cultural and religious significance. Many people are unaware that it is edible and instead use it for religious purposes.

When choosing a Buddha’s Hand Citron for incense burning, consider the size and shape of the fruit. Some prefer larger fruits with prominent ‘fingers’ resembling an open hand, while others may favor curved fingers symbolizing protection. Select a ripe fruit with a color ranging from green-yellow to golden yellow, and avoid those that are too green or overly mature. Display the fruit on a plate or tray, positioning it at the highest point as a sign of respect.

To maintain freshness, clean the fruit with white alcohol instead of washing it with cold water before burning incense. Place a small bowl of water and vitamin B1 tablets near the fruit on the altar to extend its lifespan. The vitamins will provide additional nourishment while the stem absorbs water.

No, the Buddha’s Hand Citron is also a popular gift for special occasions such as birthdays, grand openings, and housewarmings. It is believed to bring good luck, health, and positivity for the new year.