An Ancestral Altar Filled with the Warmth of Incense
The ancestral altar holds a sacred place in Vietnamese culture and spirituality. Ancestor worship is not just a belief but also a way to express gratitude and honor tradition. Those who nurture gratitude will find success. A family with a grateful heart and strong roots will be blessed. Neglecting the altar, leaving it dusty and foul-smelling, shows a lack of respect and gratitude.
In the traditional belief of ‘as above, so below’, our departed ancestors continue to watch over us from the other side, making the act of worship all the more important. While a grand feast is not necessary, it is vital to keep the altar clean and free from pests and dust. Lighting incense is a way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, connecting us to our ancestors.

The scent of incense at the family altar demonstrates the homeowner’s gratitude and attention to detail.
A well-maintained altar is a sign of a respectful and orderly household. Standing before the altar, one’s heart is filled with reverence, and their mind is calmed. Families who tend to their altar regularly often have a deeper sense of morality and fear of divine retribution, leading them to live more virtuously.
A Study Filled with the Scent of Books and the Warmth of Human Presence
The study or reading corner in a home reflects the family’s intellectual pursuits and passion for learning. A well-maintained bookshelf, free from dust and filled with the scent of new books, indicates that someone regularly spends time there. Reading keeps this space fresh and free from dust and mustiness.
Reading is a pathway to knowledge, and learning is a way to enrich oneself. Families who neglect their study, leaving it dusty and cold, lack a culture of curiosity and learning. In contrast, the world’s wealthiest individuals are often those with a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to lifelong learning.

A fragrant study indicates a family’s dedication to education and personal growth.
As life is ever-changing, a commitment to learning is key to long-term success. Those who resist learning will eventually fall behind. A family that does not value education may find it challenging for their children to achieve academic success, and their wealth may be short-lived. Thus, regardless of the era, diligence in studying, reading, and working is essential for a thriving career and a prosperous, enduring family legacy.
A Kitchen Filled with the Aromas of Home-Cooked Meals and the Warmth of Family
A kitchen filled with the aroma of cooking is a sign of a vibrant and welcoming home. In traditional belief, the kitchen is a place of wealth and abundance, reflecting a family’s financial situation. A kitchen lacking the fragrance of food, rice, and spices indicates either poverty or a lack of culinary skill. The kitchen is where nutritious meals are prepared, nurturing the health and well-being of the family.

A fragrant kitchen is a sign of a happy and healthy family life.
The scents of the kitchen represent not just the food but also the love and care shared among family members. A neglected kitchen, left cold and unused, will develop a musty, unpleasant odor. The aromas of gratitude, knowledge, and familial love are essential for a prosperous and blessed family. A home with these three elements will thrive, whether wealthy or humble. Conversely, a family lacking these qualities may struggle to maintain their wealth and harmony in the long run.
Disclaimer: This content is for reflective purposes only.