tam đa

Tam đa là ba điều hạnh phúc: nhiều con, nhiều lợi, và nhiều tuổi.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The Three Abundances / The Three Duos: A traditional Confucian concept representing three primary blessings or abundances that constitute human happiness: numerous descendants (many children), prosperity (wealth and high salary), and longevity (long life).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Theo quan niệm tam đa, hạnh phúc trọn vẹn bao gồm phúc (con cháu đầy đàn), lộc (giàu có), và thọ (sống lâu). (According to the concept of the tam đa, complete happiness includes phúc [numerous descendants], lộc [prosperity], and thọ [longevity].)
  • Bức tranh dân gian thường vẽ biểu tượng của tam đa. (Folk paintings often depict the symbols of the tam đa.)

Advanced Usage

• The concept is deeply embedded in Vietnamese folk art and culture. The three abundances are often symbolized by specific figures:
  • Phúc (Blessing/Descendants): symbolized by the celestial official.
  • Lộc (Prosperity): symbolized by the deer (a homophone for "lộc" meaning "benefits").
  • Thọ (Longevity): symbolized by the god of longevity with a peach and a crane.

Variants and Related Words

• Phúc Lộc Thọ: This is the most common modern phrase encapsulating the concept, frequently used in greetings, decorations, and gifts, especially during the Lunar New Year (Tết).
  • Mọi người chúc nhau Phúc Lộc Thọ vào dịp năm mới. (People wish each other Phúc Lộc Thọ on the occasion of the New Year.)

Synonyms

• The Three Blessings: A direct synonymous phrase in English.
• The Three Felicities: A more formal synonym.

Related Cultural Concepts

• Tam Tài (The Three Powers): A related but distinct concept referring to the triad of Heaven, Earth, and Humanity.
• Tranh Tam Đa: Refers to folk paintings specifically depicting the three gods of .