God of Wealth Day Tradition In Vietnam Explained

The Day of the God of Wealth is a significant occasion in Vietnamese spiritual culture, especially for business owners and merchants. On this day, people often perform rituals, buy gold, and open new shops, hoping for a prosperous and lucky year ahead.

But where does this tradition come from? What should you do to attract good fortune on this day? Let’s dive into the details with Chus.

God of Wealth is associated with gold 

What is the Day of the God of Wealth?

The Day of the God of Wealth is an important occasion for business owners, merchants, and anyone seeking prosperity, smooth work, and good luck throughout the year. On this day, families, businesses, and shops prepare elaborate offerings to honor the God of Wealth, praying for luck, thriving business, and a steady flow of wealth.

According to folk beliefs, the Day of the God of Wealth falls on the 10th day of the first lunar month every year. In 2025, it will land on Friday, February 7th.

God of Wealth in Vietnam culture (Photo: Internet)

The Origin of the Day of the God of Wealth

There are many legends about the God of Wealth, but one of the most popular stories tells of how he accidentally fell to Earth.

The story goes that the God of Wealth, while in heaven, got drunk and fell to Earth, losing his memory in the process. Wandering aimlessly, he had no idea who he was and resorted to begging for food. One day, a kind restaurant owner invited him in for a meal. Strangely, from the moment he entered, the restaurant’s business boomed, attracting a flood of customers.

Noticing this, the owner decided to keep him around, hoping the good fortune would continue. Over time, the God of Wealth regained his memory. On the 10th day of the first lunar month, he remembered his true identity and returned to heaven.

Since then, people have chosen this day to honor him, setting up altars and making offerings to express gratitude and seek his blessings for luck and prosperity.

Additionally, according to folk beliefs, the God of Wealth loves roasted pig, which is why it’s a staple in traditional offerings

What to Do on the Day of the God of Wealth?

Offerings to the God of Wealth

The offering table for the God of Wealth is carefully prepared with various items, depending on regional customs and the family’s means. Here are some common offerings:

• Fresh flowers, fruits, candles, incense, rice, and salt: These basic items symbolize respect and sincerity.

• The "Tam Sên" (Three Elements) set: This includes three symbolic foods representing creatures from the sky, water, and land—typically eggs, shrimp/crab, and pork (often roasted pig).

• Roasted pig: A favorite of the God of Wealth, this dish is a must-have in many offerings.

• Grilled snakehead fish: A Southern Vietnamese specialty, served whole with scales intact, symbolizing luck and abundance.

Some families also add gold paper, wine, or candies, depending on local traditions.

Offerings to the God of Wealth (Photo: Internet)

Opening Business

After Tết holiday break, many shops and businesses choose to re-open on the Day of the God of Wealth to attract good luck. For those already in operation, they often prepare an offering table to pray for a smooth and prosperous year ahead.

Buying Gold for Prosperity

Gold has long been considered a precious asset, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. According to Vietnamese law, gold is classified as a rare asset, alongside silver, precious metals, gemstones, antiques, and national treasures.

Gold is a rare asset and a mean of saving (Photo: Pháp Luật Online)

Many believe that buying gold on the Day of the God of Wealth attracts fortune and brings luck and prosperity throughout the year. This tradition is not only spiritual but also a practical way to accumulate wealth. Gold retains its value over time, making it a safe investment and a way to preserve assets.

As a result, on the Day of the God of Wealth, people flock to gold shops, creating bustling scenes. The high demand often drives up gold prices significantly during this period. Whether buying gold for luck or investment, this tradition remains popular, especially among business owners.

Vietnamese people often buy gold when it's near God of Wealth Day (Photo: Diệp Anh/TTXVN)

Conclusion