Kitchen Gods on the 23rd of the 12th lunar month: offerings & tips

On the 23rd of the 12th lunar month, Vietnamese families see off the Kitchen Gods (Táo quân) to Heaven, where they report the household's affairs of the year to the Jade Emperor. It also marks the start of the Tết mood.

Meaning

The Kitchen Gods (two lords and a lady) rule the hearth and keep the home harmonious. The send-off shows gratitude and a wish that they "report the good and soften the bad".

The offering

Depending on means, it usually includes:

• Incense, flowers, candles, betel, tea and wine.
• A set of Kitchen-God hats and robes and votive paper.
• A carp — the Gods' mount to Heaven: a live carp to release, or a paper one.
• A savoury or vegetarian feast.

Good timing

Offer before noon on the 23rd, as the Gods are said to ascend at midday. If busy, the evening of the 22nd or morning of the 23rd is fine. Check the day's auspicious hours.

Releasing the carp

• Release it gently into clean water; don't throw it from height or dump the plastic bag.
• It is an act of mercy-release — do it with a kind heart.

Prayer

See the full Kitchen Gods prayer. Once the incense burns down, burn the votive paper and hats, then release the carp.

After the 23rd, many families begin cleaning and tidying the altar for Tết. See Tết dates and good hours.

A folk custom, for reference; arrangements vary by region.