The God of Wealth’s Birthday: A Vietnamese Tradition
The 10th of January marks a special day in Vietnamese culture – the birthday of the God of Wealth, also known as “Ngay via Than Tai.” On this day, business owners and traders offer incense and prayers to the God of Wealth, seeking blessings for a prosperous year ahead.
What should be placed on the altar to attract wealth and luck?
A plate of five fresh garlic cloves
Garlic is considered an auspicious offering for the God of Wealth’s altar. It is believed that placing a plate of five fresh, intact garlic cloves, or even a bunch of garlic, will bring good fortune.

Garlic on the Wealth God’s Altar
Money Toad (Thiềm Thừ)
The Money Toad, also known as the three-legged toad or “Coc Thiem Thu,” is a popular feng shui item often placed on the Wealth God’s altar. This toad is depicted sitting on a pile of wealth, with a coin in its mouth and two strings of ancient coins by its sides. It symbolizes attracting and retaining wealth, ensuring that prosperity does not escape.
Pi Yao (Tỳ Hưu)
Pi Yao, or Tỳ Hưu, is a mythical creature similar to a unicorn, but with wings. It is believed to bring good luck, wealth, and success to its owner. Pi Yao is often placed in pairs on the Wealth God’s altar, facing each other. This symbol of wealth also offers protection and is said to ward off negative energy, bringing peace to the household.

Pi Yao on the Altar
Golden God of Wealth Statue
Typically, the God of Wealth and the Earth God are worshipped together on the same altar. The statue of the God of Wealth is placed on the left, while the Earth God statue takes the right side.
Feng Shui Coins
These coins are a popular choice for the Wealth God’s altar as they symbolize wealth and prosperity. They are believed to attract financial abundance and good fortune.