Introduction: As we welcome Tai Sui 2026 (The Year of the Fire Horse), for those whose zodiac signs clash with the Grand Duke Jupiter, this can be a period of volatility and challenge. As the saying goes, “When Tai Sui sits on the head, if there is no joy, there will be disaster.” Therefore, “An Tai Sui” (Pacifying Tai Sui) is an indispensable ritual in Taiwanese folk belief. What exactly should you prepare? Based on expert advice and authoritative sources, this article guides you from the basics of Tai Sui 2026 to the zodiac analysis, offering list, ritual process, and fees, helping you dissolve bad luck and pray for a peaceful year.
Chapter 1: What is “An Tai Sui”? Basic Concepts
1.1 Understanding Tai Sui
According to traditional beliefs, Tai Sui (The Grand Duke Jupiter) is not an evil spirit but a “Yearly Guardian God” in charge of mortal affairs.
- Tai Sui General: There are 60 generals who rotate annually. Tai Sui 2026 is governed by “General Wen Zhe” (some sources may refer to Yang Yan Fu, but for 2026 Bing Wu Year, it is traditionally General Wen Zhe).
- Influence: Governs personal fortune, health, career, and wealth for the year.
- Meaning of Pacification: Through the ritual, we “settle” (An) the Tai Sui and our own hearts. It prays for the General’s leniency towards those clashing with him, dissolving unfavorable influences for peace and smoothness.
1.2 Why Pacify Tai Sui?
Clashing with Tai Sui 2026 means your zodiac sign is in conflict or damaging relationship with the presiding god of the year, disturbing your magnetic field. The ritual acts as prevention, resolving potential gossip, accidents, or financial loss ahead of time, while providing psychological support. For more details on the 2026 General, you can read this article about General Wen Zhe.
Chapter 2: Zodiacs Clashing with Tai Sui 2026
2026 is the Year of the Bing Wu (Fire Horse). The energy is volatile. Here are the five affected zodiac signs:
Impact: ★★★★★
This is your year (Ben Ming Nian). Expect major changes. Career shifts or job hopping are likely, but come with stress. Pay special attention to cardiovascular health and emotions. Pacifying Tai Sui is highly recommended. Keep a low profile.
Impact: ★★★★★
Rat and Horse clash directly. This is the most volatile impact. Fortune fluctuates greatly; unexpected situations or financial loss may occur. Beware of bad romance. Strongly advised to pacify Tai Sui 2026 and be conservative with investments.
Impact: ★★★★
Prone to backstabbers (Xiao Ren) and miscommunication with superiors. Agreed deals may change. Watch out for minor illnesses. Pacify Tai Sui to resolve interpersonal conflicts.
Impact: ★★★
“Penalty” implies legal disputes or conflicts. Prone to contract issues or accidental injuries. Be cautious with finances and avoid direct confrontations.
Impact: ★★★
“Destruction” implies broken relationships or financial loss. Plans are easily disrupted. Recommended to pray for peace and maintain key relationships.
Chapter 3: What to Prepare for Tai Sui 2026? Offerings Checklist
Many ask “What to prepare for An Tai Sui?” Sincerity is key, but following traditional customs shows respect.
3.1 Basic Essentials
- 1. Fresh Flowers:
Chrysanthemums (Longevity), Lotuses (Purity), Lilies. Prepare a bunch or pair. Red, yellow, or pink colors are preferred. - 2. Fruits:
Prepare 3 or 5 kinds (odd numbers). Recommended: Apples (Peace), Oranges (Good Luck), Bananas (Wealth), Pineapples.
❌ Avoid: Pears (Separation), Guavas (Seeds considered unclean), Tomatoes. - 3. Incense & Paper Money:
Incense (Sandalwood), Red Candles (Light), Tai Sui Gold (Special spirit money), Longevity Gold.
3.2 Advanced Offerings
If budget allows, add these for grandeur:
- Pastries: Sponge Cake (Rising higher), Red Tortoise Cake (Longevity), Tangyuan (Completeness), Candies (Sweeten Tai Sui’s mouth).
- Drinks: Three cups of clear tea or vegetarian wine.
- Stationery: Red paper (for writing the talisman), brush (for home rituals).
Video: Correct process and offerings for An Tai Sui.
Chapter 4: Ritual Steps for Tai Sui 2026
4.1 Temple Ritual Process (7 Steps)
- Choose a Temple: Select a reputable large temple near you (e.g., Longshan Temple).
- Prepare Data: Bring the name, lunar birth date, and address of the person clashing with Tai Sui.
- Prepare Offerings: Bring flowers and fruits.
- Registration: Arrive 30 mins early, fill out the form at the counter, pay the fee, and get a receipt/talisman.
- Ritual: Place offerings on the table. Light incense and announce: “Disciple [Name], clashing with Tai Sui this year, prays for General Wen Zhe’s protection and blessings for [Wish].”
- Completion: Insert incense. Burn spirit money after incense burns halfway.
- Follow-up: Carry the talisman or place it at home. Remember to return to “Thank Tai Sui” at the year’s end.
4.2 Home Ritual Process (6 Steps)
If you cannot visit a temple, you can do it at home:
- Purify: Bathe and change clothes. Tidy the altar.
- Set Up Talisman: Write “General Wen Zhe of the Year Bing Wu” on red paper and place it on the left of the altar.
- Place Offerings: Arrange flowers, fruits, and tea.
- Pray: Light 3 incense sticks and sincerely state your details and wish to Tai Sui 2026.
- Complete: Bow three times and burn Tai Sui Gold.
- Maintenance: Offer incense and fresh tea every 1st and 15th of the lunar month.
4.3 Best Time for Tai Sui 2026
Best Period: From February 4, 2026 (Start of Spring) to before the Lantern Festival (15th of 1st Lunar Month). Mornings 9:00-11:00 AM are most auspicious.
Chapter 5: What to Wear?
Dress appropriately to show respect.
- Principles: Tidy, clean, modest.
- Colors: Dark blue, red, grey. Avoid all black (gloomy) or all white (mourning).
- Taboos: No revealing clothes (low cut, mini skirts), slippers, ripped jeans, or weird costumes.
Chapter 6: Fees & Costs
Fees vary by location and service depth. Estimates for 2026:
| Service Type | Est. Cost (NTD) | Includes | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 300 – 800 | Tai Sui Light/Talisman | General believers |
| Standard | 800 – 1,500 | Light, Talisman, Card, Chanting | Those wanting full ritual |
| VIP | 1,500 – 3,000+ | Exclusive ritual, better light position | Business owners |
| Donation | Free will | e.g., Xingtian Temple | Sincere prayer |
Chapter 7: Recommended Temples & Thanking Tai Sui
7.1 Recommended Temples
- North: Taipei Longshan Temple, Xingtian Temple.
- Central: Lukang Longshan Temple, Dajia Zhenlan Temple.
- South: Tainan Grand Mazu Temple, Nankunshen Daitian Temple.
7.2 Thanking Tai Sui (Xie Tai Sui)
Don’t forget to return! At the end of the lunar year (around Lunar Dec 24), prepare richer offerings than before to thank the General for his protection throughout Tai Sui 2026. You can check out Tai Sui Amulets on Amazon for protection items.
Chapter 8: FAQ
Basically, you need three things: Fresh Flowers (Chrysanthemums, Lilies), Fruits (Apples, Oranges, Bananas – odd numbers), and Incense/Paper Money (Sandalwood, Tai Sui Gold). Advanced offerings can include sponge cakes, sweet cookies to show respect.
2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse. Signs affecting by Tai Sui 2026 include: Horse (Sitting/Value – major changes), Rat (Direct Clash – volatile), Ox (Harm – interpersonal issues), Rabbit (Penalty – legal/conflict), and Rooster (Destruction – financial loss).
For temple rituals: Choose a temple, bring ID/details, prepare offerings, register and pay, place offerings and pray with incense, state your wish, and collect the safety talisman. For home rituals: Purify yourself, set up the altar, offer incense and pray, bow three times, and burn spirit money.
Generally, basic service in temples costs around NT$300-800, including a talisman. Advanced services or famous temples (like Lukang Tianhou Temple) range from NT$500-1200. Some temples like Xingtian Temple operate on donation basis (free).
Temples offer professional rituals and collective energy, providing strong psychological comfort but require travel. Home rituals are flexible but require self-preparation. Beginners are advised to go to a temple.
Conclusion
Pacifying Tai Sui 2026 is a precious cultural tradition. It is a humble prayer for the future and a form of psychological preparation. Facing the challenges of the Fire Horse year, correct rituals and offerings can turn anxiety into peace and change into opportunity.
Whether you choose a bustling temple or a quiet home altar, sincerity is key. Remember, after the ritual, maintaining good deeds and a positive attitude is the fundamental way to dissolve bad luck. May General Wen Zhe bless you with a safe and prosperous year.
