When it comes to gift-giving, ancient proverbs advise against arriving empty-handed but also caution against certain gifts that may bring bad luck.
Avoid Giving Used Items, Even If They Are Valuable
While used items can be valuable, and sometimes more so than new ones, it is considered inauspicious to gift them. It implies a lack of respect for the recipient, suggesting that they are only worthy of hand-me-downs. This can create a rift in the relationship and bring bad luck to both parties.
Giving used items may cause the recipient to feel disrespected, damaging the relationship and leading to a decline in well-being and reputation. If the relationship is important to you, it is best to gift new items. Only when there is a deep level of understanding and comfort should one consider giving used items. Gifting and giving are two different concepts in this context.
Ancient wisdom emphasizes the importance of maintaining a respectful distance in relationships, even when they are close. This way, potential conflicts or misunderstandings won’t cause as much hurt.
Bringing used items to someone’s home is also considered unlucky, as it is believed to bring misfortune to the host and oneself.
Avoid Giving Expensive Gifts
When visiting someone, it is advisable to give gifts that are commensurate with the relationship. Expensive gifts can create misunderstandings, be seen as bribes, and even cause legal troubles. They may make the recipient uncomfortable and fearful of your intentions, tainting the relationship. Such gifts can also create a sense of debt or burden, taking away the joy and replacing it with a feeling of obligation. Additionally, they could lead to legal issues.
A harmonious relationship is built on mutual support and sharing, without any sense of debt or burden. It is about giving and receiving equally.
Gifts to Avoid According to Feng Shui
Certain items are considered unlucky according to feng shui. These include toxic plants like Dieffenbachia (trạng nguyên), spider plants (mạng nhện), and cacti, as well as items with inauspicious names. For example, in Vietnamese, “đồng hồ” sounds like “tống chung,” which means “to send off the dead.” Similarly, “ô” means “to disperse,” and “lê” implies cutting or separation. Gifts made of silver are also believed to symbolize a breakdown in relationships. Therefore, it is important to consider the symbolism and meaning of gifts to avoid any misunderstandings or bad luck that could strain the relationship.
This information is for reference only.
2023 Lunar New Year Gift Ideas for Older Family and Friends
As 2021 approaches, families worldwide are gathering to celebrate the special bond between grandparents and their grandchildren. To show their love and admiration, these thoughtfully chosen gifts will bring a smile to the face of the elderly. Here, we have compiled a list of the 13 most meaningful Tet presents that can bring joy to our beloved grandparents.