Tai Sui Amulet - Best Times for Requesting and Wearing

According to traditional Chinese customs, people pray to the Tai Sui (Grand Duke Jupiter) or request a Tai Sui talisman at the end of the lunar year or during the New Year to seek blessings and protection.

When should you request a Tai Sui talisman?

Theoretical Window:

Talismans may be requested anytime from the Winter Solstice (around December 21st), when the Yang energy begins to rise, until the Lantern Festival (15th of the first lunar month). The earlier, the better.

Optimal Timing:

The period around the Beginning of Spring (Li Chun) is ideal.

For example, in 2026, Li Chun falls on the 17th day of the 12th lunar month. At this time, the old Tai Sui will abdicate and the new Tai Sui, General Wen Zhe, will arrive; thus, requesting the talisman at this time is most in accordance with the laws of heaven.

Advance Preparation: You may consult and reserve in advance, but the ritual must take place after the Winter Solstice; specifically, do not request talismans during the autumn.

 

When should you wear a Tai Sui talisman?

After receiving your Tai Sui talisman, you should choose an auspicious day to activate it:

Preferred Auspicious Days:

The Winter Solstice, the Beginning of Spring (Li Chun), the Little New Year (the 23rd or 24th of the 12th lunar month), the 8th of the first lunar month (Shun Xing Day), and the 15th of the first lunar month (Lantern Festival).

Personal Ritual:

When activating, wash your hands, calm your mind, recite the name of the Tai Sui Star Lord, state your name and birth date, and express your sincere reverence.

Immediate Wearing:

You may start wearing it immediately after the ritual. From then on, it should be kept on your person or properly stored throughout the year and should not be left aside carelessly.

 

How should you handle an expired Tai Sui talisman?

A Tai Sui talisman is effective for one year and must be handled properly once it expires:

Time for Disposal:

The Little New Year (the 23rd or 24th of the 12th lunar month), the day the Kitchen God is sent off, is the auspicious time to burn the Tai Sui talisman.

Burning Ritual:

Burn it in a clean outdoor area using a lighter or candle until it is completely reduced to ashes. Do not use a stove fire, as a sign of respect.

Handling the Ashes:

After burning, the ashes may be scattered into a clean river or lake, or buried deep in the ground, symbolizing a return to nature and gratitude for the protection of the Tai Sui God over the past year.

Renewing the Talisman:

After burning the old talisman, you should promptly request a new one for the coming year. Do not use an old talisman across years, as it will not only be ineffective but also considered disrespectful to the current Tai Sui.

 

Special Note: Requesting a talisman is like a "leadership change." You must first respectfully send off the old leader (send off the Tai Sui) before welcoming the new one (requesting the new talisman). Avoid acting in haste during the "vacuum period" when the old Tai Sui has not yet departed and the new one has not yet arrived; otherwise, it may prove counterproductive.

 

Contact us to learn how to [Obtain a Tai Sui Amulet] or [Register for the Tai Sui Blessing Ritual]

 

Further Reading:

The Origins, Wearing Methods, and Taboos of the Tai Sui Talisman

Praying to and Thanking the Tai Sui: Traditional Blessing Rituals