The arrangement of an altar not only expresses reverence but also holds spiritual significance, especially for wealthy families. A common question is why flower vases are usually placed on the left side of the altar. This stems from the principle of “east vase, west fruit” rather than superstition.
According to folk belief, “east vase, west fruit” implies that flower vases should be placed in the eastern direction, while the fruit platter should be in the west. This principle originates from the natural law: the sun rises in the east, and plants flower before bearing fruit. Following this rule is believed to bring smoothness and good fortune to the homeowners.
Why do wealthy people often place flower vases on the left when burning incense?
When the altar faces the main entrance in a southern direction, placing the flower vase on the left (east) allows the floral fragrance to permeate the worship space whenever the east or southeast wind blows, creating a serene and solemn atmosphere. This reflects the subtlety in the arrangement, paying attention to both aesthetics and sensory factors.
Placing the flower vase on the left (east) when the altar faces south allows the floral scent to spread throughout the worship area when the east or southeast wind blows.
In the case of two flower vases on the altar, they should be placed symmetrically on both sides, with the fruit platter in the center, in front of the incense burner. This arrangement ensures balance and maintains the spiritual significance of the flower vases.
Apart from flower vases, homeowners should also pay attention to other worship items such as the three (or five) ceremonial objects, offering trays, and incense holders, to create a solemn and complete worship space. For smaller altars, especially wall-mounted ones, only one flower vase and an incense holder should be placed opposite each other, avoiding an excessive display of items that may cause imbalance and detract from the sanctity of the worship area.
Homeowners should also consider other worship items like ceremonial objects, offering trays, and incense holders to create a solemn and complete worship space.
Regarding materials, flower vases on the altar should be made of ceramic or glass, avoiding metallic substances like copper or iron. The chosen flowers should have a subtle fragrance, lack thorns, and be neatly trimmed to convey spiritual significance and ensure safety for those involved in the rituals.
Thus, placing the flower vase on the left side of the altar is not merely a long-standing tradition but also a profound cultural practice, demonstrating reverence for ancestors and a desire for family peace and prosperity.
The Ancient’s Warning: Why They Said ‘Don’t Bury Your Father on the Seventh Day or Your Mother on the Eighth’
In rural areas, the cultural customs and traditions surrounding the circle of life are of utmost importance to the community. These rituals, which mark the significant moments of birth, aging, illness, death, weddings, and funerals, are deeply valued and observed by the locals.
The Art of Cleanliness and its Peculiar Link to Gender Dynamics: An Ancient Adage Explored
In ancient times, it was believed that a woman with excessive body hair was a sign of good fortune. But is there any truth to this old adage?
The Art of Incense and Floral Arrangements: Unveiling the Secrets of Ancestral Wealth.
In the art of worship through incense offering, it is advisable to adhere to the rule of “East for sticks, West for coils”.
The Ancient’s Wisdom: “7 Won’t Bury the Father, 8 Won’t Bury the Mother” – Unraveling the Mystery
“Burying a parent is one of the toughest moments in life, and the old adage, ‘7 won’t bury their father, 8 won’t bury their mother’ is a poignant reminder of the complexities of life and death. This proverb, passed down through generations, holds a deeper meaning that isn’t always readily understood.”
The Power of the Dinh Lang Plant: Inviting Prosperity and Protection.
In Feng Shui, the Vietnamese balm tree is believed to bring positive energy and enhance one’s well-being, especially when planted in this specific location.
