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Ever wondered what's the significance of the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month? If you pose this question to the Vietnamese, you're sure to get a satisfactory answer. They'll tell you it's the day to honor Ong Cong Ong Tao. On this festive occasion, families prepare elaborate offerings to ensure a prosperous celebration. Wondering what should be included in the Ong Tao worship feast? Let's explore!
Complete Spread for Ong Tao Worship Feast This Tet
1. Ritual Offerings for Ong Tao
In accordance with tradition, the ritual offerings for Tao Cong include three hats or 'ba co,' representing two hats for men and one for women. The colors of the hats, robes, and the two Tao Cong change annually based on the five elements.
The northern region still includes the symbolic addition of golden carp in the worship offerings. After the ceremony, the carp is released into lakes, ponds, or rivers, symbolizing the transformation from carp to dragon as the Tao ride towards the heavens. This is vividly depicted in the Tao Quan performances with giant carp figures!
2. A savory feast for Ong Tao Worship
An Ong Tao worship feast doesn't have to consist solely of extravagant or high-end dishes. Instead, it emphasizes tradition, simplicity, and the unique significance of each dish, steering clear of extravagance and luxury.
Ong Tao Worship Feast Essentials:
Some individuals opt to deep-fry carp, but this compromises the essence of the 'carp turning into a dragon' tale. The carp should be alive, released into a bowl of water. This symbolic act occurs after the ceremony, leading to misconceptions where people buy various seafood and release them into rivers. Understanding the true significance of this symbolic release is crucial!
The Ong Tao worship ceremony typically takes place on the 22nd and 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month. Interestingly, it is believed that Ong Tao must be sent off before noon on the 23rd to ensure a timely ascent to the heavens. While in the past, families performed the ceremony even after noon, it is reassuring to know that the deities reach their destination by evening for the celestial meeting with the Jade Emperor. So, no need to worry!
In addition to preparing the worship offerings, crafting the Ong Tao invocation is equally important. Rather than seeking wealth and prosperity, the prayer is a simple request for Ong Tao to share positive words. There's no elaborate plea for riches; just good vibes!
Here's what you need to know about preparing the Ong Tao worship feast on the 23rd day of the twelfth lunar month. Your family may not fulfill all these requirements, but the essence lies in offering heartfelt respect to the divine. Families can simply prepare a modest feast and gather for the ceremony. Wishing you a fulfilling Ong Tao worship this year!
Posted by: Nguyen Thach
Keywords: Essential Tips for Ong Tao Worship Feast Preparation
