According to Northern customs, families usually offer fruits such as bananas, pomelos, oranges, mandarins, apples, pears, and dragon fruits to Ong Cong Ong Tao.
- For the Central region:
In the Central region, the offering of fruits for Ong Tao at the end of the year includes bananas, dragon fruits, oranges, mandarins, pineapples... or any seasonal fruits available.
- For the Southern region:
In the Southern region, the fruit offering for Ong Tao typically consists of mangosteens, papayas, mangoes, pineapples... while it is advised against offering bananas, apples, pears, oranges, mandarins.
3. Fruits that are advised against offering during Ong Cong Ong Tao day.
To avoid bringing misfortune to the household, refrain from offering certain types of fruits when worshipping the Kitchen Gods:
- Avoid offering artificial fruits as they symbolize deceit and disrespect towards the divine.
- Avoid fruits grown close to the ground as they are prone to impurities and contamination, creating an atmosphere of impurity.
- Fruits with strong odors, dark hues, or sharp thorns such as jackfruit, durian, etc., can affect the harmony, peace, and prosperity of the household.
Notes to consider when offering fruits on Kitchen Gods' Day:
- The fruit tray for the Kitchen Gods can consist of 5 different fruits or just 1 type. The number of fruits on the tray should be odd as it symbolizes the underworld.
- Select fresh, juicy fruits with vibrant colors for offering. Avoid offering rotten, crushed, or overly ripe fruits.
- Fruits should be thoroughly washed before offering. It is advisable to purchase fruits 1-2 days in advance to prevent spoilage and overripening.
This article by Mytour addresses the query 'What fruits should be offered on Kitchen Gods' Day and their significance?' Hopefully, this article proves helpful to you.