Ancestral tablet

Personalized . Experience . Peace In Mind

Ancestral tablet

Personalized . Experience . Peace In Mind

Ancestral Tablet

An ancestral tablet (also called a spirit or memorial tablet) is a sacred wooden or stone plaque inscribed with the name of a deceased family member, often placed on an altar at home or in a temple. These tablets serve as a spiritual link between the living and the departed, allowing descendants to pay respects through offerings, prayers, and rituals.

This sacred item which still remains the symbol of Chinese ancestral worship who wish to venerate their ancestors either in columbarium or at own home.

In Singapore, having ancestral tablets and niche in same columbarium are for those who may not have pedestal halls to honor their loved ones at home due to unavoidable circumstances, space constraint, and convenience as to pay respect their ancestors.

Purpose and Significance

Spiritual Connection– Many Asian cultures, particularly in Chinese, Taoist, and Buddhist traditions, believe the tablet houses the ancestor’s spirit, ensuring they remain part of the family’s life.

Filial Piety– Honoring ancestors reinforces Confucian values of respect and continuity between generations.

Afterlife Comfort– Families believe proper veneration ensures the deceased is at peace in the afterlife, avoiding restlessness or misfortune.

Generational Blessings– It’s thought that appeased ancestors bestow protection, prosperity, and harmony upon descendants.

Family Ancestors Tablets

Home Based Ancestor Prayer

Choices of Ancestral Tablet Materials in the Market

In modern times, ancestral tablets are crafted from various materials, each with different aesthetics, durability, and cultural significance. The most common options include:

Traditional Wood (Most Common)

Types : Sandalwood, rosewood, teak, or nanmu (a durable Chinese hardwood).

Pros:

Revered in Chinese culture for its natural, sacred qualities. Easy to carve intricate inscriptions and designs. Lightweight and easy to place on home altars.

Cons: Requires maintenance (polishing, protection from humidity). Lower-quality wood may warp or crack over time.

Stone (Marble/Granite/Jade)

Pros:

Extremely durable and weather-resistant (ideal for temples/columbaria).Luxurious appearance (especially jade or black granite).

Cons:

Heavy and difficult to move.

More expensive than wood.

Ceramic/Porcelain

Pros:

Elegant, glossy finish with hand-painte details.

Resistant to moisture and insects.

Cons:

Fragile—can break if mishandled.

Limited customization compared to wood.

Metal (Brass, Bronze, Gold-Plated)

Pros:

Long-lasting and corrosion-resistant. Symbolizes wealth and prestige.

Cons:

Expensive. Heavy and may not suit traditional altar setups.

Modern Alternatives (Acrylic, Resin, Composite Materials)

Pros:

Affordable and lightweight. Can mimic wood or stone at lower cost.

Cons:

Lacks traditional reverence. May fade or degrade over time.

Crystal Glass

Pros:

Luxurious Appearance– High clarity, elegant shine, resembles gemstones.

Modern & Lightweight– Sleek for contemporary altars.

Customizable– Laser-engraved names/gold leaf designs.

Cons:

Fragile– Can shatter if dropped.

Expensive– Costs more than crylic/ceramic.

Cultural Perception– Some view it as "cold" compared to wood/stone.

Frequent Asked Questions

Is It Important to Choose an Expensive Tablet?

Not necessarily. The material’s significance depends on your budget, religious belief, placement and family tradition.

How many name can be crafted in the ancestral tablet?

Normally its 2 names with 2 photos Or 2 names only. However, this is subject to design and the size of your ancestral tablet choice Or the columbarium that offer the ancestral tablet services. Do ask more details about it.

How to Choose the Right Tablet?

Consider Purpose, Durability Needs, Aesthetic Preference, Customization and Feng Shui/Symbolism.

What If We Move or Relocate the Tablet?

Do check with the Temple or Columbarium transfer procedures. Your new relocation sales agent should be able to advise on the transfer service they can offer. For ancestral tablet that locate at home which seek for relocation, can do a more direct placement. Do book a free consultation for purchase and relocation ancestral tablet.

Are There Eco-Friendly Options?

Presently, there is some new option like digital memorial tablets (e.g., LED displays) and tablets that use biodegradable materials. However, this will be subject to the temple and columbarium regulation and management. Therefore, do seek clarification with your sales agent.

Let’s chat. No pressure, Just peace of mind.

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