The Significance of Buddha’s Hand Fruit
Buddha’s hand fruit derives its name from its unique shape, resembling the hand of Buddha. With a rough outer skin and fragrant essential oils similar to that of a pomelo, Buddha’s hand fruit has a spongy pulp but lacks the segments found in pomelos.
In Buddhist worship, the fruit is highly revered due to its hand-like form, and with many Vietnamese people practicing Buddhism, it holds significant cultural and religious value. Believed to bring luck and love, Buddha’s hand fruit is often used in rituals to worship Buddha and ancestors, with its fragrance preserving their spirit in the home for extended periods, offering protection and blessings to the owner.
Originating from India, Buddha’s hand fruit is often purchased for incense offerings and subsequently discarded, with people believing it is not meant for consumption. However, this fruit possesses medicinal properties similar to pomelos and can be used to create delicious preserves.
Selecting and Presenting Buddha’s Hand Fruit for Worship
Buddha’s hand fruit varies in size, with each finger-like projection pointing outward, mimicking Buddha’s hand. Some families prefer fruit with outward-pointing fingers, symbolizing the attraction of wealth, while others opt for fruit with inward-bending fingers, representing an embrace and protection.
When choosing Buddha’s hand fruit for incense offerings, select fruit with green-yellow or golden-yellow hues, avoiding those that are too green or overripe. Immature fruit is not suitable for offerings. Sunburned fruit should also be avoided, and it is preferable to choose fruit with evenly spread fingers, as longer fingers are considered more aesthetically pleasing.
During placement on the incense altar, Buddha’s hand fruit can be displayed individually or as part of the five-fruit tray, but it should always be positioned at the highest point. For extended incense offerings with a single fruit, submerge the branch in a cup of water, ensuring the fruit remains dry. Over time, the branch will grow roots and absorb fresh water, preserving the fruit.
Preserving the Freshness of Buddha’s Hand Fruit
To maintain the freshness and beauty of Buddha’s hand fruit, it is recommended to use white wine to gently wipe away any dirt before placing it on the altar, rather than washing it with cold water. Additionally, when placed on the ancestral altar, consider adding a bowl of water with vitamin B1; the branch submerged in this water will grow roots and help keep the fruit hydrated and fresh.
Beyond its use in Lunar New Year offerings, Buddha’s hand fruit holds significance in various other celebrations, including birthdays, openings, and housewarmings. Displaying this fruit in offices, administrative agencies, and meeting rooms is believed to bring luck, good health, and a smoother, more prosperous year ahead.
Source: Giaitri.thoibaovhnt
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