Offering tray on the 1st day of the 7th lunar month to bring luck and fortune

Spiritual meaning of the 1st day of the 7th lunar month

According to folk beliefs, July is the month of “pardoning the dead”. The ceremony on the first day of the month not only marks the beginning of a new month but is also an occasion for descendants to remember their ancestors, pray for peace in the family, and avoid bad luck. Feng shui also believes that a carefully arranged offering tray will help the homeowner attract good energy, paving the way for good fortune.

Offerings needed on the altar

A traditional offering tray usually includes incense, fresh flowers, candles to connect yin and yang; a tray of five fruits symbolizing the five elements; sticky rice, sweet soup or cakes meaning fulfillment; savory dishes such as boiled chicken, fried spring rolls, bamboo shoot soup showing thoughtfulness; and votive paper money and clothes for living beings to give alms, showing compassion.

Suggestions for standard offerings

The homeowner can prepare a balanced offering tray between meat and vegetarian offerings, for example: a whole boiled chicken, a plate of sticky rice with gac fruit, a bowl of sweet rice balls, a tray of five fruits, fresh flowers, incense, candles, clean water, white wine and some votive paper. Depending on the conditions, you can add dishes to suit your family's taste, the most important thing is sincerity.

Note when displaying

The best time to worship is early in the morning of the first day, placing the tray on the family altar. For worshiping sentient beings, a small tray should be placed in the yard or in front of the house. The person performing the ceremony should dress neatly and properly, and sincerely pray for health, peace and fortune. In addition, July is also an opportunity to do good deeds, release animals, and help the needy to bring good luck.