Origins and Meaning
The 10th day of the first lunar month is considered the birthday (via) of the God of Wealth (Than Tai) in Vietnamese folk belief. This is a significant day for business owners and traders who pray for a prosperous and lucky year. The custom is especially popular in Southern Vietnam, where Than Tai is often worshipped together with Ong Dia (the Earth God) on a small altar placed on the floor, facing the main door. Than Tai is typically depicted as an old man with white hair and a long beard, holding a gold ingot.
This practice reflects a cultural aspiration for wealth and well-being. Customs can vary by region and family, so the following guide offers a common reference, not a strict rule.
Preparing the Offerings
Here is a common checklist for the offering tray. Adjust it based on your family's traditions and means.
- Incense, fresh flowers (chrysanthemums or red roses).
- Oil lamps or candles (2).
- Fresh fruits (a five-fruit tray): prefer bright-colored fruits with lucky names like red dragon fruit, watermelon, tangerines.
- Tam sen (a small set of three offerings): a slice of boiled pork, 3 boiled eggs, and 3 boiled shrimp or crab.
- Roasted meat (roasted pork or duck): a common must-have in the South.
- Grilled snakehead fish (optional, common in the Mekong Delta).
- Xoi (sticky rice), sweet soup, or jelly (optional).
- Betel and areca nuts (a small plate).
- Rice and salt (two small bowls).
- Votive paper (gold paper ingots, paper clothes for the deities).
- White wine (2 small cups) and clean water (3 small cups).
- Clean cloth and scented water or white wine for cleaning the altar.
Note: Some families place real gold jewelry on the altar during the ritual for good luck. This is optional.
Step-by-Step Ritual
Step 1: Clean the Altar
Before placing offerings, clean the Than Tai altar. Use a clean cloth dipped in scented water (clean water mixed with flower petals), white wine, or ginger water to wipe the statues and the altar surface. This symbolizes cleansing away the old year's bad luck.
Step 2: Arrange the Offerings
After cleaning, arrange the altar neatly. Place the statues or spirit tablets in the center, two small lamps on the sides, and the cups of water and wine in front. Then, arrange the food offerings and fruits harmoniously, with the main tray in the center.
Step 3: Choose the Right Time
The best time to perform the ritual is in the morning, ideally between 7 AM and 11 AM, avoiding noon.
Step 4: Light Incense and Pray
Light the incense (usually 3 or 5 sticks) and the lamps, then read the prayer. You can use a traditional Than Tai prayer or speak your own sincere words.
Step 5: Wait and Burn Votive Paper
Wait for the incense to burn out completely (about 1 to 1.5 hours). After that, you can take down the offerings and burn the votive paper. Always burn votive paper in a safe, fireproof container away from flammable materials, and ensure the fire is completely out before leaving.
Prayer Summary
A typical Than Tai prayer includes: invoking Buddha's name; paying respects to the Heavenly and Earth Gods, the Kitchen God, and the God of Wealth; stating the worshipper's name and address; announcing the date (10th day of the first lunar month); declaring the offerings presented with sincerity; and praying for peace, prosperity, and success in business.
Important Notes
- Rituals can vary by region and family. Consult elders or local cultural guides for adjustments.
- The most important aspect is sincerity, not the lavishness of the offerings.
- Always be careful with fire when burning incense, candles, and votive paper. Keep them away from flammable items and never leave burning materials unattended.
