Group photos are not suitable for ancestral altars.
Ancestral altar photos should be individual portraits. Do not use group photos as ancestral altar pictures. Even if a couple was deeply attached in life, it is not advisable to use a couple photo for the altar. Using individual photos demonstrates solemnity and respect during worship.
Note: The photo frames on the altar should be uniform in size and style, fitting the altar space to ensure symmetry. This also facilitates the arrangement of worship items.
Ignoring the principle of ‘male on the left, female on the right’
When placing ancestral altar photos, homeowners should pay attention to the principle of ‘male on the left, female on the right’. That is, the photo of the husband should be placed on the left, and the wife’s photo on the right. According to ancient wisdom, this arrangement is based on the natural movement and the activities inside the human body, adhering to the laws of heaven and earth.
The Right Way to Place Ancestral Altar Photos
Because, when facing south, the sun rises on the left (left) and sets on the right (right). ‘Nam xung do huyet’ (Southern clash due to blood) refers to the morning when the can (liver) energy is strong, and blood surges. ‘Nu tram boi than’ (Female沉 by kidney) refers to the evening when kidney energy is at its peak. This gave rise to the theory of ‘male left, female right’, ‘male yang, female yin’, ‘male blood, female energy’, and ‘male can, female kidney’. Arranging the photos in this manner will bring good fortune to the household and smoothen the path of descendants.
Avoid placing ancestral altar photos crookedly or askew.
When setting up ancestral altar photos, it is essential to ensure they are straight and aligned. This demonstrates the solemnity and respect of the homeowner towards their ancestors. A crooked photo arrangement indicates a lack of respect and reverence in worship and remembrance. The photo placement also reflects the homeowner’s aesthetic sense, so it should not be disregarded and left open to judgment from outsiders.
Incorrect Photo Placement Leads to Misfortune
Arranging photos based on seniority and hierarchy
It is important to note that the arrangement of ancestral altar photos should also reflect the seniority and hierarchy of the deceased. The photo of the most senior or respected member should be placed in the center and at a higher position. Photos of those with lower seniority or status should be placed on either side, slightly lower in height. If a family worships multiple ancestors, it is advisable to use a three-tiered altar for convenient photo arrangement.
For reference only, subject to personal interpretation
