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Death Commenmoration - Coggle Diagram
Death Commenmoration
What is Death Commenmoration?
Death Commenmoration is the Vietnamese death anniversary.
Family members and friends gather to honor their family members who have passed away.
The ceremony is held at the house of the eldest member of the family and celebrated once a year, and it can be in honor of more than one family member who has passed away.
The purpose is to provide offerings to passed loved ones, so they are comfortable wherever they are.
What happens during Death Commenmoration?
Death Commenmoration preparations begin months before the actual day of celebration.
Close relatives are invited for the two days of celebration,
Typically, the women in the family begin cooking early in the morning.The men slaughter larger animals such as cows and pigs and take care of chores for the day.
Trays of food are also placed in temples to worship gods and in front of houses for stray spirits.
Once the family table is set with all the food, the eldest member of the family prays in front of the altar to invite spirits into the home.
After the ritual is over, everyone proceeds to eat and talk about the passed family member’s life and experiences.
The second day is considered the main day of Dam Gio. Events are similar in pattern to what happens during the first day, but they are focused on worshipping and offering gifts to their ancestors.
Death Commenmoration Rituals and Traditions?
Prayers
The host of the event prays and invites the spirit of deceased family members into the house, leaving more than one tray of food if the spirit decides to bring friends along.
The prayer may also include moments where younger members of the family bow to the spirits of the elders to pay respect and show honor.
Altars
Their altars tend to include red cloth, flowers, candles, incense, photos, religious icons, and incense.
The average altar is a wooden cabinet that holds flowers and food. Some families also include a large red or vibrantly colored banner that hangs down as the background of the altar.
Food and drink
Braised duck with curry
Congee
Grilled beef
Pork rolls
Vegetables
so on...
What to know before attending a Death Commenmoration?
If you have been invited to a Dam Gio, it’s customary to arrive with a death anniversary gift. This can be fruit, wine, or a gift basket made for the occasion.
In general, discussion, avoid joking, negatively criticizing or discussing sensitive issues that involve the family, and being indifferent to the family's grief.
Shorts or dresses below the knee and shirts that don't expose too much work perfectly.
It’s essential to give preference in food, seating, and conversation to anyone older than you.
Death Commenmoration is one tradition that has become an integral part of Vietnamese culture, and therefore, should be appreciated and respected.
Celebrating a Death Commenmoration in Vietnam
Death Commenmoration in Vietnam is an important event that gathers all family members together to remember those who have gone on before.
Spending quality time with family from all over and remembering their elders, they adhere to the important tradition of respecting their elders and honoring their loved ones.