Van Hon Star in the Nine Luminaries: An Overview
In Eastern folk belief, each person is influenced annually by one of nine stars known as the Nine Luminaries (Cửu Diệu), rotating in a 9-year cycle. These stars are divided into three groups: auspicious, inauspicious, and neutral. Van Hon (also written as Van Han) belongs to the neutral group, alongside Thuy Dieu and Tho Tu.
Its full ceremonial name is Duc Nam Phuong Binh Dinh Hoa Van Han Tinh Quan. Van Hon is associated with the Fire element and the South direction, yet rituals are performed facing East.
Despite being classified as neutral, Van Hon is often regarded as inauspicious in practice for both men and women due to its negative influences on speech, disputes, and health.
Meaning of Van Hon Star in Folk Belief
Impact on Speech and Disputes
The most prominent warning of Van Hon concerns speech. Those affected are advised to be extremely cautious in communication, avoiding gossip or hasty words. Careless speech may lead to unnecessary troubles, including lawsuits and conflicts.
In work and social environments, individuals under this star may easily face misunderstandings or become targets of gossip. Therefore, guarding one's tongue is considered the most crucial measure to mitigate misfortune.
Impact on Health and Childbirth
Van Hon is believed to affect health, particularly women's blood-related conditions. Folk tradition advises women under this star to avoid giving birth that year due to potential complications for mother and child.
Affected individuals should also monitor their overall health, avoid overwork, and maintain a relaxed mindset.
Worst Periods
According to folk experience, the 2nd and 8th lunar months are the most unfavorable periods for those affected by Van Hon. During these months, disputes, health issues, and relationship problems are more likely to surface. Major decisions such as signing contracts or long travels should be minimized.
Van Hon and Other Stars in the Nine Luminaries
The system consists of three auspicious stars (Thai Duong, Moc Duc, Thai Am), three neutral stars (Van Hon, Thuy Dieu, Tho Tu), and three inauspicious stars (La Hau, Thai Bach, Ke Do). Although Van Hon is not among the worst stars, its effects on speech and health warrant special attention.
Ritual for Van Hon Star
The ritual is typically performed monthly or at the beginning of the year with these specifications:
- Date: 29th day of the lunar month
- Time: 9 PM to 11 PM
- Direction: Facing East
- Offerings: 18 oil lamps or candles, pink paper with red-ink prayer, incense, flowers, tea, fruits, betel nuts, votive paper, salt, rice, and a bottle of water
Prayer
The prayer invokes the Nine Directions of Heaven, Buddhas, and the full name of Van Hon star. The supplicant states their full name and birth date, expressing sincerity and seeking protection from misfortune.
After the ceremony, all votive items and the prayer paper are burned.
Objective Perspective
Star-watching and ritual practices are part of folk culture and spiritual life, offering psychological comfort rather than scientific certainty. No scientific evidence links these stars to human destiny. Practicing cautious speech and maintaining good health are beneficial regardless of one's star. Readers should approach this information with an open mind, balancing cultural appreciation with practical living.