Celebrating the Chinese New Year (CNY) is an event that is steeped in traditions. And it is certainly true to say that these traditions and customs vary from household to household, each depending on where the root of the family originally springs from.

We sought the advice of noted fengshui Master Ong Thiam Peng, of I-Ching Geomancy Center on the CNY’s customaries in regard to the most auspicious dates and times to carry out so that you will know how to get on the right footing in the Chinese New Year.

These are the several customs that are commonly observed by local Chinese family which include:

1)    ‘Last Closure’ on CNY’s Eve and the ‘First Opening’ on of door on CNY’s Day 

The tradition of closing the door on the eve signifies the very last act that the household performs for the outgoing year and, in a way, it is done in preparation to welcome the year that will soon arrive. Master Ong says "We must carried out and choose the most auspicious hour to close the door on the eve, so as to enable an auspicious first opening of the door to welcome the New Year." For houses, the main gate is the symbol of the main entry and exit point, and for apartment dwellers, it is, of course, the main door.

2)    Receiving the God of Fortune

This aspect must surely be of interest to almost all of us and in fact had been well observed by local community. After all, it is the God of Fortune who is involved and, if we have his blessing, then there is the chance of being blessed with good fortune! 

Apart from observing the auspicious time for making offerings to the Ancestor and the God of Fortune. There is also a specific direction to pray or to receive the God of Fortune that changes every year.

Ironically, the ‘God of Fortune’ and it direction was omitted by the Chinese Almanac during the last year 2011, and also for the coming year of the dragon 2012. So we can expect a lot of disorientations and confusions among devotees.

In view of the confusions, Master Ong of I-Ching Geomancy Center would share his professional knowledge and advises devotees of ‘God of Fortune’ to continue in their offering. But pray towards the East direction of their home between 6.18 am to 6.45 am, which can also enhance one’s luck and destiny in the coming year of the Dragon.

3)    ‘First Outing’ of the Chinese New Year

The first outing for the Chinese New Year is where an individual or the family makes its first journey out of the house. This 'first outing' is very important as it symbolizes the very first step taken in the New Year and, therefore, must be done correctly so that all future undertakings will be smooth and harmonious.  

Master Ong emphasis very much on this customary and equate to receiving 'Red Packet from Heaven'. He says "If it is properly carried out, one can receive unexpected good results during the year, critically for businessman and leaders of industries. According to historical records, this customary is well observed by Chinese Emperors."

(* Note: It is the direction of your residence and not specific part of a certain country - Singapore!)

4) Commencement of work and business during the New Year 

For the career and business minded, here are the best dates to commence work or conduct the first commerce during the New Year:

5)  Which Animal Zodiac clashes with Deity of ‘Tai Sui’?

Master Ong also points out another aspect to look out for and this has to do with the deity of ‘Tai Sui’, a high-ranking deity in the celestial realm. Due to zodiacal alignment, certain zodiac animal will be at odds with the deity, he warns. His advice is to adopt a low profile and avoid occasions such as marriages and funerals, and to refrain from renovation work. Master Ong also advises these people to make offerings to the deity at major temples within the first fortnight of the New Year and to give thanks again before the year is over.

People of the following zodiac animal sign must avoid witnessing cremation or buried procession.

6) Properties that are affected by Deity of ‘Tai Sui’ 

Houses or buildings with the following orientations may encounter unfavourable tidings and misfortune during the coming year:

A) Those facing South-East will be in direct conflict with the Deity of ‘Tai Sui’

B) Those facing North-West will deem to have offended the Deity of ‘Tai Sui’

Owners constructing dwellings or occupants in houses or buildings with the above orientations are advised not to undertake building renovation works during the coming year. If work must be carried out, please seek professional advice before commencement.

Home owners are further advice not to nail on the wall of those two specific corners of the house or office.

* We had witnessed many cases of calamities and disasters at home or office that were caused by ignoring the above advice. Do pay attention!   

Master Ong and all at I-Ching Geomancy Centre wish one and all a happy and prosperous year of the Dragon – 2012.