une and one for peace.The ancestral tablets were changed if the head of the family died. He would be the first generation of ancestors. As for the past generations, they were adjusted upward. Only five generations were actively venerated, this meant that the head of the family's great-grandfather's tablet was to be taken down. Veneration of AncestorsRespect and duty did not stop from the parents because of their death. Someone in the family had to visit the offering hall where the ancestral tablets were kept at least once a day. The new head of the family, which would be the eldest son, had to perform regular devotions to his father and ancestors. This included reports on certain events, such as: births, capping, and weddings. If the son would be gone away from home for more than ten days the son would have to explain why he was gone to ancestors before he would leave.The son might have the pleasure of reporting a promotion granted the ancestor by the court. These were awards given to accompany promotions won by living. There is a formula from Zhu Xi that was to be read word-for-word reads as follows ", On such we received an edict conferring on our name [name of relative] the [name of office] . . . [Name of living head of family], due to the instruction he received from his ancestors, holds a position at court beyond hat he deserves. Through the grace of the sovereign, this honor has been conferred. [Head of family]'s salary came too late to support his parent, which leaves him unable to choke back his tears." During season of the year and on holidays special offerings were performed to the ancestors. The day before to prepare, the offering hall was purified with incense, and in the hall a table was set for dinner, complete with utensils, bowls, cups, and plates. At the start of the day the family rose at dawn and set out the food and drink. Around the table the wooden ancestral tablets were set at their places. The family greeted the...
