Sending off of Kitchen Deity (Zhao Jun) and other Household Deities
Every year, just before Chinese New Year, almost all Taoists will performed this ceremony at home – consider as a very important Spiritual Ceremony for the Taoists, it’s called ~ Song Shen – Sending off of Deities.
Then where do the Taoists sent the Deities to?
Of course back to the Heaven (or Celestial Palace).
So when the ceremony will be carried out?
Usually on the 24 Day of Lunar 12 Month. But if your family has certain connection to the Imperial Lineage or your ancestor is an Officer of the Past Imperial Court, then you will have to send off the Deities on the 23 Day.
Cos’ in the past, they have such a saying:
Officer to send off on 23, normal citizen on the 24.
Why is there a must for this?
Cos’ in the past, ranking is very important in the society, this will somehow differentiate the rich and poor, the Authorities and the normal, so 2 different dates have been set for the sending off.
So what are the necessary items that the Taoists need to prepare for this ceremony?
Usually the items are:
1 rice-cake, Chinese called Nian Gao, the one which is in brown colour, a bit sticky and so.
2 any types of fruits
3 rice-wine, usually those in clear form
4 Sending off Deities Joss-paper, the one with horses and assistances (Inviting Deities back will need to use the one with Sedans)
What the best timing for the Sending off?
Usually folks will perform the ceremony in the early morning.
Best will be 6-8am, if not, before 11am.
Who will perform the ceremony?
Usually will be the breadwinner of the family, if not, the elder MALE of the family will need to lead the whole family for the ceremony (Ladies are not allowed to lead)
So after sending-off, when will the Taoists need to invite back the Deities?
Usually on the 4 Day of Chinese New Year, but some Chinese will invite the Deities back on CNY eve.