Recommended Flowers and Fruits for Worship on Doan Ngo Tet Holiday
Flowers for Worship on Doan Ngo Tet
– Lotus
Regarded as the national flower and a symbol of purity and elegance, lotus is a perfect choice for any ceremonial occasion. With its subtle fragrance and graceful beauty, the lotus not only brings a sense of tranquility to the worship space but also expresses profound reverence for ancestors.
– White Lily
This flower is often used in solemn rituals due to its slender shape, pristine white color, and delicate fragrance. Lilies represent purity and innocence and symbolize filial piety and respect for the deceased.
– Golden Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums symbolize longevity, prosperity, and stability. With vibrant yet subtle colors, chrysanthemums add a touch of warmth and elegance to the worship space. Additionally, they have a long vase life, making them ideal for displaying on altars for extended periods.
– Peony
Peonies, also known as Chinese peonies, are familiar flowers in many parts of Vietnam, especially in the South. With vibrant colors such as red, pink, and orange, peonies are not only beautiful but also carry positive connotations. The name “trang” evokes a sense of solemnity and reverence, befitting the sacred atmosphere of the ancestral altar.
– Money Plant
Not only does the money plant have a lucky name, but it also symbolizes wealth and prosperity. While it comes in various colors, it is customary to choose red or yellow flowers for worship, signifying prosperity and gratitude.
Fruits for Worship on Doan Ngo Tet
– Apricots and Lychees
These two fruits are characteristic of summer and usually ripen around Doan Ngo Tet. Apricots have a mild sour taste, and folklore believes they can eliminate “insects” in the body. Lychees, on the other hand, are sweet and symbolize sweetness and reunion. Both fruits add vibrant colors and a sense of freshness to the worship tray.
– Watermelon
Watermelon represents fulfillment and prosperity. The deep red color of its flesh is considered auspicious in feng shui, bringing good fortune. Watermelons are typically displayed whole or halved, occupying a central position on the altar.
– Bananas
Bananas are a familiar fruit in the traditional five-fruit tray. A bunch of bananas with fruits hugging each other symbolizes family unity and harmony. Additionally, bananas represent fertility and abundance, conveying wishes for a large and harmonious family.
– Mangoes
Mangoes have a sweet fragrance and are easy to store. In some regions, mangoes also symbolize “being able to afford,” implying financial success and smooth sailing. Mangoes are favored for Doan Ngo Tet worship due to their attractive colors and appealing flavor.
– Custard Apples (Sugar Apples)
Custard apples signify fertility and abundance. With their multi-eyed appearance, they are believed to “open up one’s vision” and enhance wisdom, making them suitable for praying for good health, wisdom, and fortune for descendants.
– Pineapples
Pineapples have a distinctive aroma that brings a pleasant atmosphere to the worship space. Vietnamese people believe that pineapples attract good luck and retain fortune within the home. When displayed on the altar, it is customary to keep the green leaves attached to symbolize longevity and growth.
Flowers and Fruits to Avoid for Worship on Doan Ngo Tet
Flowers to Avoid
– Lilies
Despite their elegant beauty and popularity in floral art, lilies are discouraged in worship practices due to the association of the word “ly” in their name with separation and dispersal. This connotation is undesirable in family rituals.
– Orchids
Orchids are typically associated with luxury and refinement. However, in folk culture, orchids are often not used in worship contexts due to their association with haughtiness and a lack of simplicity and purity.
– Jasmine
Despite its refreshing fragrance, jasmine is rarely chosen for worship as it is believed to be associated with impropriety in folk culture, making it unsuitable for the solemn atmosphere of an altar.
– Wilted or Overly Fragrant Flowers
Regardless of the type of flower, if it is wilted or has an overpowering fragrance (such as jasmine), it should be avoided as it creates a gloomy and impure atmosphere, contradicting the spirit of purity and tranquility intended for ancestor worship.
Fruits to Avoid
– Durian
Despite being known as the “king of fruits” for its unique flavor, durian has a strong odor that can overpower the delicate fragrance intended for worship spaces. This is why many families avoid placing durian on their altars.
– Jackfruit
Jackfruit has numerous seeds and is challenging to divide into portions. For Doan Ngo Tet worship, fruits should be easy to eat and share, symbolizing abundance and generosity. Additionally, jackfruit has spines, making it generally unsuitable.
– Rotten or Overripe Fruits
Offering fruits on the altar is not only a form of worship but also a way to express sincerity. Presenting rotten, spoiled, or discolored fruits demonstrates a lack of respect for ancestors and fails to maintain the purity of the worship space.
– Artificial Fruits (Plastic or Wax)
Some people use artificial fruits for altar decoration for convenience and longevity. However, for traditional holidays like Doan Ngo Tet, using artificial fruits is considered insincere and superficial, and it is best to avoid them altogether.
(*) The information in this article is for reference only and is not intended as financial advice!
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