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According to the traditional customs of the Vietnamese people, the ancestral altar is indispensable in every family. Here are some tips for setting up the ancestral altar in harmony with feng shui to bring happiness to the family.
Avoid placing the altar directly facing the entrance
In feng shui, if the ancestral altar is placed directly facing the entrance, it will cause the vital energy in the house to flow out, leading to many unfortunate events for the homeowners. If, due to some reasons such as limited space, the altar cannot be moved, then hanging curtains outside the entrance is advisable to prevent prying eyes.
Avoid placing the altar in high traffic areas
The location for placing the ancestral altar should be serene, avoiding high traffic areas, as it may lead to family troubles and financial loss. Also, avoid placing it near children's rooms or play areas as these places tend to be noisy.
Avoid placing the altar near bathrooms or toilets
Bathrooms and toilets are often located in areas with negative energy and are considered contaminated areas. Since the altar is sacred, it should not be placed near bathrooms or toilets.
Avoid placing the altar in conspicuous locations
The altar area should be respected, so it's not ideal for outsiders to see the altar and ancestral photos as soon as they enter the house. If the house has multiple floors, it's advisable to place the altar on the top floor to avoid it being overshadowed by other rooms.
Maintain cleanliness for the altar
The altar area must always be kept clean, and the altar should be cleaned regularly. Avoid placing the altar too high or too low. Placing the altar too high will cause difficulties in worshiping, while a low altar implies disrespect for ancestors.
Consider placing greenery in the altar area
Having potted plants in the altar room will bring more prosperity and blessings to the homeowner. When choosing plants, opt for those easy to care for and with significant feng shui meanings to enhance the energy flow and vitality of the house.
Arrange lighting in the altar room
The altar room should feel warm and inviting. If it feels cold upon entering, it indicates negative energy, possibly due to infrequent candle lighting or altar cleaning. Another reason for the coldness might be insufficient lighting. It's advisable to hang small lamps around the room, ensuring that the light doesn't directly shine on the person performing the rituals.
Paintings can be hung on both walls, and the wall paint color should be light, while the color inside the altar should be uniform
Arranging Items on the Ancestral Altar
Each family may have different arrangements; typically, an ancestral altar contains 1 to 3 incense burners placed in the center for worshiping deities, with two bowls on the sides for ancestral worship and offerings to grandparents.
In front of the incense burner, place 3 cups of water with fruit trays, betel nuts, and gold coins on both sides. Behind the incense burner, place vases of flowers, incense, and candles.
Hanging Couplets in the Altar Room
Vietnamese often hang couplets and royal proclamations in significant places in the altar room. These proclamations often record the achievements of ancestors, impart wisdom to descendants, and express wishes for prosperity and peace. Hanging couplets on both sides not only decorates the room but also carries valuable moral lessons.
Placing the Ancestral Altar According to Feng Shui
The orientation of the ancestral altar is crucial, impacting the wealth of the entire family. It's advisable to position the altar according to the homeowner's destiny.
Ancestral tablet inscriptions, rituals on the 15th day of the lunar month.
Choosing the appropriate size of the altar brings luck to the homeowner
Guide to measuring the size of the altar for Feng Shui compatibility
