Red envelopes, or ‘lucky money’, are a meaningful tradition for many during the Lunar New Year celebrations. This custom involves placing fresh, crisp banknotes inside a small, vibrant red packet, which is then presented with a warm smile to the recipient, wishing them a prosperous new year. This heartwarming gesture is deeply ingrained in the culture and is believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead. And after receiving this lucky money, one might wonder, what should I spend it on to bring luck? Well, wonder no more! Here are some lucky purchases to consider:
1 Buy Salt
Buy Salt
An old saying goes, “Buy salt at the beginning of the year and lime at the end.” But why salt? In folk belief, salt is thought to ward off evil spirits, dispel bad luck, and bring good fortune to the household. It is believed that salt can attract prosperity and blessings for the entire year.
Salt also symbolizes the depth of human connections, wishing families unity and harmony, and hoping for strong relationships with neighbors and the wider community. Despite modern developments, this beautiful tradition continues to be passed down through generations.
For more information: prepare lucky money for your loved ones, rest assured that your loved ones will be delighted
2 Buy Calligraphy Paper
Buy Calligraphy Paper
This is a meaningful tradition that showcases the value placed on knowledge and education. By buying calligraphy paper, one expresses their hopes for good fortune, wealth, and longevity through the power of words. People often seek out scholars, teachers, or wise men known for their virtue and extensive knowledge to write these lucky words. This act symbolizes receiving the blessings of the writer, while also demonstrating the recipient’s determination to strive towards their goals.
Check out our suggestions for lucky red envelope designs!
3 Buy Feng Shui Items
Buy Feng Shui Items
Consider purchasing lucky Feng Shui items such as Pi Yao (also known as Tỳ Hưu), Qilin (Kỳ Lân), carp, or Buddha statues, all of which are believed to attract wealth and prosperity. Choose items that align with the homeowner’s age, birth year, or zodiac sign for maximum luck, as these can enhance positive energy, ward off bad luck, and invite good fortune. Be mindful of where you place these items, as putting them in the wrong spot may bring the opposite of luck!
4 Buy “Fire”
Fire represents warmth and happiness within the family. So, if you’re unsure what to spend your lucky money on, consider buying a lighter or a box of matches! This symbolizes bringing warmth, good fortune, and prosperity into your home. Additionally, these items make great New Year gifts, wishing the recipient a year filled with happiness, harmony, and financial success.
Buy “Fire”
5 Buy Gold
Buy Gold
Annually, the tenth day of the Lunar New Year is considered the God of Wealth’s birthday. On this day, buying gold is believed to bring financial luck and prosperity for the year ahead, ensuring a flourishing of wealth and a prosperous year. After the festive holidays, buying gold can help maintain financial stability, and it also motivates people to work harder throughout the year to avoid financial difficulties.
6 Buy Oil for Buddha Lamps
Another beautiful tradition is to buy oil for Buddha lamps, expressing gratitude to the Buddha and honoring the Triple Gem for bestowing wisdom and peace.
This act is symbolic rather than literal. Devotees visiting the temple can purchase oil and then donate the money to the temple’s fund, using a small coconut shell to pour the oil into the lamp. The amount of oil purchased is up to the individual, as the true value lies in their devotion to the Triple Gem and their respect for the Buddha.
Now you know what to spend your lucky money on to bring good fortune! While these are just suggestions, they represent the beautiful cultural traditions that have been passed down through the ages.