The Bai Sun ceremony is a traditional Chinese ritual performed to pray for good luck and success, accompanied by various offerings. This practice is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and is often associated with significant deities. At Moy Yee Kung Fu, the Bai Sun ceremony involves honoring General Kwan. The following insights are from an interview with Kenny Vuong (易鵬), a Moy Yee disciple involved in setting up General Kwan statues in new Moy Yee schools.
General Kwan’s Significance
General Kwan was a revered warrior known for his loyalty and bravery. Due to these qualities, many groups and organizations honor him, hoping to invoke his protection and guidance. According to Sihing Kenny Vuong, there are various designs and colors of General Kwan statues available in the market. These differences arise from different manufacturers and aesthetic changes over time. Despite these variations, there is only one General Kwan, symbolizing his singular legacy and significance.
Choosing and Preparing a General Kwan Statue
1. Selecting a Statue: The size of the General Kwan statue should correspond to the available space where it will be placed. The choice of statue is also influenced by personal preferences and aesthetics.
2. Temple Blessing: After purchasing the statue, it should be brought to a Buddhist temple where a ceremony, known as "開光" (K Guang), is performed to activate the statue's power on an auspicious day. After this ritual, the owner can bring the statue to its designated location.
3. Placement of the Statue: The General Kwan statue requires an altar proportional to its size. While placing the statue, it is essential that it does not face the bathroom or kitchen. Contrary to popular belief, it does not need to face the door as General Kwan is not a door god (門神). Instead, the statue should be positioned in a way that it can oversee the entire area, similar to a security camera. The altar should be installed first, followed by the placement of the statue on an auspicious day. On the altar are three small cups for water (wine during Bai Sun ceremonies). There are also two larger cups—on the right of the statue is water and, on the left, tea (representing yin and yang). There should be daily offerings of oranges.
The Bai Sun Ceremony
The Bai Sun ceremony involves placing the General Kwan statue on the altar and performing a ritual to honor him. Offerings commonly include oranges and lettuce. In Cantonese tradition, a roast pig is often served, and vegetarian dishes are consumed during the celebration. Variations in the ceremony may occur depending on local customs and cultural practices.
Maintenance and Care of the Statue
Regular maintenance of the General Kwan statue is crucial. Incense should be burned at least once daily, ideally twice—once before leaving the house and once upon returning. For places of business, such as our Kung Fu school, incense should be lit upon opening and, if convenient, when leaving the business. Offerings of fruit, tea, and water should be regularly refreshed, done with sincerity and dedication. Annually, on the eve of the Chinese Lunar New Year, both the statue and the altar are thoroughly cleaned to ensure continued reverence and respect.
By following these practices, devotees can honor General Kwan, seeking his protection and blessings for good fortune and success in their endeavors.
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