The "red envelope" ritual is a time-honored tradition
within the Black Sect school of Feng Shui. The rectangular
shape of an envelope resembles that of ancient Chinese
shields, and symbolizes protection. The color red
symbolizes power and good luck.
The red envelope ritual serves three purposes:
1. To demonstrate the recipient's sincere intention
and respect for the sacred knowledge that is shared
during a consultation.
2. To protect the teacher from harm for revealing
sacred knowledge.
3. To strengthen and enhance the effectiveness of
transcendental cures.
It is traditional for recipients of Feng Shui cures
to present the teacher of sacred knowledge with
nine new, red envelopes - eight containing a token
[usually $1] of monetary appreciation, and the ninth
containing the consultation fee. People often ask
why we use the number nine so often in Feng Shui.
The history, strength and prevalence of the number
nine can be seen throughout the very fabric of our
lives. It is the number on which all basic human
and materialistic calculations are made. The number
9 is the "Big Boss". It is the indestructible one
which will be itself no matter how many times you
multiply it or add it to its own multiplication:
1x9=9,2x9=18=9, 3x9=27,and so on. While it retains
its value this way, number 9 is also the only number
which does not destroy the identity of any number
added to it, 1+9=10=1, 1+0=1, 2+9=11=2, 3+9=12=3,
etc. It is a special number, with properties like
no other. It is a number that has unseen and seen
strength, and its use in Feng Shui is intentional.
If you find it difficult to obtain red envelopes,
there is a transcendental method to create them
yourself. Simply use plain white envelopes and write
the word "Red" on each one in order to make your
own "red" envelopes. Remember, it is your intention
that makes this possible. Otherwise, your best bet
is to find them at one of the local shops in Chinatown
or at Hong Kong Market.
Portions
used with permission of Professor Lin Yun. ©
2001-2007 Black Sect Tantric Buddhism. All Rights
Reserved.
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©2001-2008 Logynn B. Northrhip | Houston, Texas | 281-235-2382 | logynn@fengshuidesignconcepts.com
