When interring an urn, it is advisable to include neither too many nor too few burial accompaniments. If there are too many items, the burial chamber becomes overcrowded, which hinders the accumulation of auspicious energy. Conversely, if there are too few items, the chamber feels empty and hollow, making it difficult for auspicious energy to be retained over time; therefore, the quantity of burial accompaniments selected at the time of interment should be appropriate.
Regarding moisture-proof urn containers: The materials currently most prevalent for urns are wood-based. However, the air-dry density, moisture content, corrosion resistance, and durability of wooden materials tend to change gradually as time passes. Materials that undergo absolutely no physical or chemical changes are rare. Consequently, after an urn has been buried underground for an extended period, it will inevitably-to varying degrees-develop issues such as cracking, deformation, or warping. These issues stem from changes in factors such as air-dry density and moisture content. Should the urn suffer from cracking, deformation, or similar conditions, it will inevitably compromise the integrity of the deceased's ashes contained within.
The "Seven-Star Board" (Qi Xing Ban): If the moisture-proof urn container is intended to ensure the deceased's peaceful eternal rest, then the "Seven-Star Board"-a specific burial accompaniment-serves to bless the descendants with a prosperous family enterprise and abundant progeny. From a folkloric perspective, this practice primarily symbolizes wealth. Drawing upon two ancient symbols of wealth-the *Yuanbao* (gold ingot) and antique coins-yellow jade is often crafted into *Yuanbao* shapes. Resembling gold itself, these are referred to as "Yellow Jade Ingots." Typically, four such ingots are placed at the four corners of the urn; this arrangement is known as "Pressing Down on the Four Corners of Wealth," symbolizing the flourishing of riches. Furthermore, as noted by the editor at Shenyang Cemetery, antique copper coins-specifically those from the reigns of Shunzhi, Kangxi, Yongzheng, Qianlong, Jiaqing, Daoguang, and Xianfeng-are frequently utilized. Typically, seven such coins are placed beneath the urn; this arrangement is known as "Stepping on the Seven Stars, Stepping on Wealth." In modern funeral practices, these seven copper coins are often integrated directly into a single "Seven-Star Board," which is then placed as a base beneath the urn. This serves to fulfill the traditional adage of "stepping on the seven stars to step on wealth," while also creating a physical gap between the urn and the floor of the burial chamber-a feature that provides insulation against dampness and aids in preservation.
The "Backing Mountain Stone" (Kao Shan Shi): In addition to the two items mentioned above, there is another commonly used burial accompaniment known as the "Backing Mountain Stone." The purpose of the Backing Mountain Stone is likewise to bestow blessings upon the descendants, ensuring the prosperity of their family enterprise and the flourishing of their lineage. Placing a "Backing Stone" within the burial chamber serves multiple purposes: it not only acts to stabilize the dwelling, ward off evil spirits, and dispel misfortune and negative energies, but also serves as a steadfast source of support for future generations-ensuring their prosperity in wealth and fortune, and fostering the flourishing of both the family lineage and its enterprises.
The Four Divine Beasts: Included as burial accompaniments alongside the urn, these four divine creatures-representing the Azure Dragon, the White Tiger, the Vermilion Bird, and the Black Tortoise-stand guard over the departed soul. Placing these Four Divine Beasts within the burial chamber not only fulfills the function of stabilizing the site and warding off evil, but also serves to nourish and replenish vital energy, thereby ensuring that the deceased rests in peace and attains a state of spiritual fulfillment.