What fruits are used for offerings? A rundown of the most commonly used ones
When people worship deities in folk tradition, they prepare sacrificial livestock and some fresh seasonal fruits as offerings. In feng shui, each type of offering carries its own special meaning, and fruits in particular must be kept clean and fresh, so that Bodhisattvas and Buddhas will come to enjoy the offerings and bring good fortune. So what are the most commonly used fruits for offerings? Let's find out together.
1. Tangerines
The "ju" in tangerine sounds like "ji," meaning good luck. The tangerine itself is golden yellow, looking like gold, so offering tangerines is believed to help attract wealth and blessings. Tangerines also have a fresh, light fragrance, and even if not used as offerings, they are great for freshening the air.
2. Apples
Apples are a common fruit in our daily lives, and the ancients believed they symbolize peace and good fortune. Apples are also brightly colored with a round, plump shape, which is an even better sign of prosperity. So placing some apples on the offering table is actually a good choice, representing the health and well-being of the whole family and safety wherever you go.
3. Pineapples
The skin of a pineapple is made up of segment after segment, carrying the meaning of rising step by step. Placing one on each side during offerings also looks quite respectful, so pineapples are a very suitable fruit for offerings.
4. Lychees
Lychees have red skin, so using them as offerings carries a very good meaning and they are also highly ornamental. However, lychees have a short shelf life and need to be replaced frequently when used as offerings.
5. Peaches
Peaches are also known as immortal peaches or longevity peaches, so many places use peaches as offering fruits, and the peaches can still be eaten after being offered.
6. Pomelos
The "you" in pomelo (youzi) sounds the same as the "you" in blessing and protection (biyou), so it is considered to have an auspicious meaning. Therefore, many people offer pomelos hoping to receive the blessing and protection of Buddhas or Guanyin.
7. Hami melon
Hami melon is called "Kuhong" in Uyghur, derived from the Turkic word "Kabo," meaning "muskmelon." The reason muskmelon came to be called Hami melon was thanks to the Qing Dynasty Emperor Kangxi. As a top-grade tribute melon, Hami melon is naturally often chosen as a first choice for offerings, meaning sweet happiness.
8. Jujubes
Generally speaking, jujubes carry the meaning of having a noble son early. Many people offer jujubes specifically so that Bodhisattvas will grant them a child. But in fact, placing some jujubes as offerings can also help the offerer seize opportunities early and achieve something in their career.
Overall, there are still many, many fruits used for offerings, each with quite different meanings. In addition, something to tell everyone: fruits offered to Buddhas can be taken and enjoyed by everyone at dinner time. Do not leave the fruits offered to Buddhas until they rot and then throw them away, as that is a wasteful act.
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