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Offering Etiquette
Proper customs for making offerings to ancestors and spirits.
Preparing the Altar
- • Clean the altar: Wipe dust and prepare fresh cloth
- • Arrange offerings: Food, fruits, and drinks in proper order
- • Set incense holder: Place three incense sticks ready
- • Prepare joss paper: Stack neatly for burning
- • Lighting: Candles on both sides of the altar
Offering Order
1
Light the incense
Light three sticks and place in incense holder with two hands
2
Bow three times
Bow respectfully with hands together in front of chest
3
Call ancestors
Silently invite ancestors to receive offerings
4
Let ancestors enjoy
Wait 10-15 minutes for spirits to consume essence
5
Burn joss paper
Burn paper money and offerings safely
Proper Attitude
- • Approach with sincere heart and quiet mind
- • Wear clean, modest clothing
- • Remove hats and sunglasses
- • Speak softly and respectfully
- • Avoid laughing or casual behavior
- • Focus on gratitude and remembrance
What to Avoid
- • Touching offerings with bare hands (use utensils)
- • Pointing feet toward the altar or ancestors
- • Eating before completing offerings
- • Distracted or impatient behavior
- • Leaving offerings unattended for too long
- • Burning paper near flammable objects
Sincere Remembrance
The most important part of offering etiquette is not the ritual itself, but the sincere heart behind it. True respect comes from love and gratitude toward our ancestors.