The Sacred “Divine Rice” Procession in Tu Xa Commune

On the morning of February 9 (i.e., the 12th day of the first lunar month, the Year of the At Ty), following the midnight Mat Ceremony of the Tro Tram Festival, Tu Xa Commune in Lam Thao District held the “Divine Rice” procession to pray for a bountiful harvest and prosperity for all.

The “Divine Rice” procession embodies the rich cultural heritage of the people of Tu Xa Commune, deeply rooted in generations of rice farming.

The “Divine Rice” procession begins at the Tro Temple, proceeds to the Tram Temple, makes a circuit around the village communal house, and then returns to the Tro Temple. The central offering of the ceremony is the sacred rice cluster—a bundle of long-grain, plump glutinous rice harvested from the previous year’s crop in the commune. Accompanying it is a sugarcane stalk with intact tops, placed in a vase on a palanquin alongside incense, flowers, fruits, betel leaves, and areca nuts. Together, the rice cluster and sugarcane embody the essence of sacred rice.

This combination represents the sacred essence of rice, a vital symbol in the ceremony.

The procession begins at the Tro Temple, proceeds to the Tram Temple, makes a circuit around the communal house, and then returns to the Tro Temple.

Leading the procession is the team carrying the sacred flag, followed by teams bearing the bowl of offerings and the sacred rice. They are joined by local officials, performers reenacting the “Four Professions,” and finally, representatives and residents of the commune and district. Upon reaching the temple courtyard, the elders perform the Ten Worship Ceremony. As the procession concludes, people gather at the Tro Temple to receive blessings.

The “Divine Rice” procession in Tu Xa Commune is not just a ritual for a bountiful harvest but also an integral part of the community’s spiritual life.

People offer incense during the ceremony.

The “Divine Rice” procession is not only a spiritual ritual but also a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the people of Tu Xa Commune, deeply intertwined with generations of rice farming. Through this sacred ritual, people express their hopes for a year of abundant harvests, prosperity, good health, and harmonious weather.

Bao Thoa