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This practice not only carries religious significance but also reflects the depth of culture – where faith, gratitude, and aspirations for peace are conveyed through the burning of incense at the beginning of spring.
Reverence at the Buddha's gate
As the New Year's Eve countdown approached, religious establishments throughout the city meticulously prepared for the transition into the new year, ready to welcome people seeking to worship. After the New Year's fireworks display, the crowds heading towards the temples grew larger and larger.
At Bat Nha Pagoda (Phuoc Ninh Ward), starting at 11 PM on the 29th day of the lunar month, a solemn prayer ceremony for national peace and prosperity was held, attracting a large number of Buddhists and local people.
The pilgrims included people of all ages. Three generations of a family stood side-by-side before the altar; grandparents slowly offered their prayers, while parents gently reminded their children to keep their hands clasped properly. A few sleepy children rested their heads on their fathers' shoulders but still tried to open their eyes as the bells chimed. Groups of young people, having just left the fireworks viewing area, also stopped by the temple for their "first outing," their laughter fading as they passed through the main gate.
Mr. Vo Thanh Trung (from Thanh Khe ward) stood by the temple porch, holding his young daughter, waiting for his wife to light incense. "Every year, my family goes to watch the fireworks and then visits the temple, as a way to start the new year," he shared. For Mr. Trung, the moments at the temple are a necessary respite to find balance after a busy year.
Amidst the lingering incense smoke and the resonant sound of bells, each incense stick is offered, conveying simple wishes: a peaceful family life, successful work, and good health. According to the temple, the prayer ceremony continues from the 8th to the 15th day of the first lunar month, maintaining the spiritual rhythm throughout the first month of spring.
The bustling atmosphere is also clearly evident at Huong Son Pagoda (Ngu Hanh Son Ward). Le Nguyen Huyen Thi's (born in 1992, Hai Chau Ward) husband's family has maintained the tradition of visiting the pagoda on the morning of the first day of the lunar month for many years. Since becoming a daughter-in-law, she has become a part of this tradition.
“Our first destination for the New Year is always Huong Son Pagoda. Although it’s quite far, my parents have been attached to the pagoda for a long time, so they always make time to visit,” she said. Dressed in traditional ao dai, the family members stand together in front of the altar, expressing their wishes for health and harmony. For her, the trip is not only spiritually significant but also an opportunity for the family to gather and maintain their bond year after year.
Not only in the early days of spring, but throughout the entire month of January, temples are bustling with visitors. After offering incense respectfully, many people seek calligraphy, receive blessings for the new year, or participate in cultural activities imbued with the spirit of spring. The temple grounds are skillfully decorated with fresh flowers and miniature landscapes, creating an elegant space for people to enjoy the scenery and capture images of the new year.
Returning to our roots
Alongside religious ceremonies at Buddhist temples, many families spend the beginning of the year returning to their ancestral homes to light incense and remember their ancestors. This is not only a spring ritual but also a way to maintain the connection between generations.
The family of Mr. Nguyen Duc Lai (born in 1962, Hoa Cuong ward) has maintained this tradition for many years. On the first and fourth days of Tet (Lunar New Year), the children and grandchildren gather at the ancestral temple in Dien Ban ward. Before the altar, each person respectfully prays for good fortune in the new year. Afterwards, the children gather around, listening to the adults tell stories of the past, recalling the journey of their family lineage.
“At the beginning of the year, we must return to light incense to remind our descendants of their roots. My family has maintained this tradition for many years,” Mr. Lai shared. The family also spends a lot of time at the maternal ancestral temple. According to Mr. Lai, being meticulous with the rituals on both sides of the family shows respect for the origins of both parents, and it is also an opportunity for relatives to meet and greet each other during the spring days.
Amidst the bustling atmosphere of the Lunar New Year, many families take the opportunity to visit the graves of their loved ones. The cemeteries are adorned with fresh flowers during these days, and the graves are neatly cleaned. Ms. Nguyen Thi Mai Anh (Cam Le ward) said that every year her family visits to light incense for her grandparents during the first days of the new year. “Standing before the graves of my relatives, I feel more strongly the continuity between generations. It’s also a reminder to live more responsibly,” she shared.
Amidst the increasingly modern pace of urban life, many families still maintain the tradition of returning to their roots as an indispensable part of the early spring season. Offering incense at gravesites or before the family altar not only expresses gratitude but also helps preserve memories, strengthen bonds, and pass on enduring values year after year.
Source: https://baodanang.vn/nen-huong-dau-xuan-3326091.html
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