SHOULD THE ALTAR BE PLACED ON THE FIRST FLOOR?

Below are some aspects to consider when deciding whether to place the altar on the first floor or not

1. The Meaning of Worship

Ancestor and deity worship is a respectful ritual, not only having spiritual significance but also showing gratitude and respect for the deceased and the gods. This is a long-standing tradition in East Asian culture, especially in Vietnam, where worship is considered a bridge between the present world and the spiritual world. Choosing the location of the altar is therefore very important, not only affecting the family atmosphere but also the peace and luck of the homeowner. The location of the altar needs to be carefully considered to ensure solemnity and respect, while being suitable for the actual conditions of each family.

2. Benefits of Placing the Altar on the 1st Floor

Placing the altar on the first floor has the following advantages:

• Convenience: For families with elderly or disabled members, burning incense and performing worship rituals is an important part of daily life. Placing the altar on the first floor makes it easy for these people to access without having to move up and down other floors. This is especially useful in families with multiple generations living together, when grandparents and parents can participate in rituals more conveniently and regularly.
• Intimacy: The first floor is often the common living space of the whole family, where members gather together. Placing the altar here helps create a close space, connecting family members with ancestors and gods. Burning incense and worshiping on holidays, death anniversaries or daily will become more convenient, thereby maintaining the spiritual bond and family cohesion.
• Safety: In case of emergency such as fire or natural disaster, moving worship items from the first floor is safer and faster than from higher floors. Placing the altar on the first floor makes it easier for the family to protect and move these important items quickly, minimizing the risk of damage.

3. Some Notes When Placing the Altar on the 1st Floor

If you decide to place the altar on the first floor, you need to note the following points:

• Location: Choose a high, clean and solemn location for the altar. Avoid placing the altar under the stairs, opposite the toilet or kitchen because these locations are not suitable for the necessary solemnity. The location of the altar should create a feeling of purity, solemnity and ease in burning incense and worshiping.
• Direction: Choose the direction of the altar according to feng shui, usually facing the main door to receive good energy from the outside. Avoid bad directions that have negative effects on the homeowner and family. Choosing the direction of the altar should be based on the homeowner’s age and other feng shui factors to ensure harmony and bring good luck.
• Space: Create a quiet space, not affected by noisy activities around. Ensure the solemnity of worship by choosing a separate corner, open space and few people passing by. The space around the altar should be kept neat, clean and solemn, you can display fresh flowers, candles, lights to increase the coziness and solemnity.

4. Feng Shui Concepts

According to feng shui, the altar should be placed in an airy, high and quiet location. Placing the altar on the first floor must comply with these principles so as not to affect the family’s luck and fortune:

• Location: Avoid placing the altar under the stairs, opposite the toilet or kitchen, because these locations are not suitable for the solemnity and respect required for the worship space. Choose a solemn and easily accessible location, making it more convenient to burn incense and worship.
• Direction: Choose the direction of the altar according to feng shui, usually facing the main door, to receive good energy from the outside. Avoid bad directions that have negative effects on the homeowner and family. The choice of direction should be based on the homeowner’s age and other feng shui factors to ensure harmony and bring good luck.
• Space: Make sure the space around the altar is always clean, tidy and solemn. Create a separate, airy space with few people passing by to maintain the quiet and solemnity of worship. You can add fresh flowers, candles, and lights to increase the coziness and solemnity.

5. Conclusion

Placing the altar on the first floor is completely possible, if you follow the principles of feng shui and ensure solemnity and dignity. The most important thing is the homeowner’s thoughts and sincerity in worshiping ancestors and gods.