Discover how to calculate the full-moon ceremony for baby girls and boys according to Vietnamese traditions, along with detailed guidance on preparing the perfect offering tray. Learn now from Maison Mận-Đỏ!
The full-moon ceremony, or “đầy tháng,” is a significant ritual in Vietnamese culture, marking the one-month milestone of a newborn. This ceremony expresses gratitude to the Midwife Goddesses (Bà Mụ), the Guardian Deity (Đức Ông), and ancestors for blessing the mother and child. However, the calculation of the full-moon date for baby girls and boys varies depending on regional customs. In this article, Maison Mận-Đỏ provides a detailed guide on calculating the full-moon date and preparing the traditional offering tray.
How to Calculate the Full-Moon Ceremony for Baby Girls
According to Vietnamese traditions, the full-moon ceremony for baby girls is based on the lunar calendar and varies by region. Below are the common methods:
- Subtract 2 Days: In some regions, the full-moon date for a baby girl is calculated by moving two days forward from the birth date. For example, if the baby is born on the 10th of the 5th lunar month, the full-moon ceremony will be on the 12th of the 6th lunar month. This reflects the belief that girls should embody humility and patience.
- Subtract 1 Day: In other areas, the full-moon date is calculated by moving one day forward. For instance, a baby born on the 10th of the 5th lunar month will have her full-moon ceremony on the 11th of the 6th lunar month, symbolizing the supportive role of women.
- Exactly 30 Days: Many modern families choose to celebrate exactly 30 days after the birth. For example, a baby born on the 10th of the 5th lunar month will have her full-moon ceremony on the 10th of the 6th lunar month.
Tip: Consult with elders in your family or local customs to choose the most suitable calculation method.sống.
How to Calculate the Full-Moon Ceremony for Baby Boys
The full-moon ceremony for baby boys is also based on the lunar calendar and carries unique meanings:
- Add 2 Days: In some regions, the full-moon date is calculated by moving two days earlier than the birth date. For example, a baby born on the 10th of the 5th lunar month will have his full-moon ceremony on the 8th of the 6th lunar month, symbolizing leadership and proactivity.
- Add 1 Day: In other areas, the full-moon date is moved one day earlier. For instance, a baby born on the 10th of the 5th lunar month will have his ceremony on the 9th of the 6th lunar month, signifying the boy’s role as a trailblazer.
- Exactly 30 Days: Similar to girls, many modern families celebrate exactly 30 days after the birth. For example, a baby born on the 10th of the 5th lunar month will have his ceremony on the 10th of the 6th lunar month.
Tip: Seek advice from elders to align with your region’s traditions.
Offering Tray for Baby Girls’ Full-Moon Ceremony
The full-moon offering tray (also known as the Bà Mụ offering) for baby girls includes two trays: one for the Midwife Goddesses and one for the Guardian Deity. The purpose is to thank the Midwife Goddesses for creating a healthy child and the ancestors for protecting the mother and baby.
Components of the Offering Tray for Baby Girls:
- Fruits: Five types of fruits (symbolizing the five elements).
- Flowers: Lilies, roses, or snapdragons.
- Incense and candles.
- Clean rice and salt.
- 12 small cups of water and 12 small cups of rice wine.
- Betel and areca: Pre-prepared betel leaves.
- Roasted pork.
- One boiled chicken with crossed wings.
- Sticky rice with mung beans: 12 small portions and one large portion.
- Candies and sweets.
- 12 small bowls of floating glutinous rice dumplings (chè trôi nước) and one large bowl.
- Full-moon ceremony paper and joss paper.
Offering Tray for Baby Boys’ Full-Moon Ceremony
The offering tray for baby boys also includes two trays (for the Midwife Goddesses and the Guardian Deity) but differs in the type of sticky rice, dessert, and ceremonial paper compared to girls.
Components of the Offering Tray for Baby Boys:
- Fruits: Five types of fruits.
- Flowers: Fresh flowers of your choice.
- Incense and candles.
- Salt and rice.
- 12 small bowls of porridge and one large bowl.
- 12 small bowls of white bean dessert and one large bowl.
- Three large plates of sticky rice.
- 12 cups of water.
- Two plates of bánh hỏi (woven rice vermicelli).
- Candies and sweets.
- Roasted pork.
- Betel and areca: Pre-prepared betel leaves.
- Full-moon ceremony paper and joss paper.
Notes for Preparing the Full-Moon Ceremony
- Respect Local Customs: Each region has unique traditions for the offering tray, so consult with elders to ensure adherence to local practices.
- Prepare Thoughtfully: Arrange offerings neatly and cleanly to show respect and sincerity.
- Choose the Right Time: The ceremony is typically held in the morning or afternoon, depending on family traditions.