Removing the Deity Tablet and Incense (Chū Huǒ)
Remove a worshipped deity tablet and its incense from its original location, usually as the first step before moving house or renovating.
Chūhuǒ (出火, 'removing the fire') is the first step in relocating the incense of a deity or ancestor. It is typically performed before moving, renovating a temple, or a family altar room. Traditionally, it was believed that a deity statue and incense burner represent the deity's temporary residence. Before moving them, an auspicious day and hour must be selected, and the items must be respectfully removed from their original position and temporarily placed elsewhere. This demonstrates respect for the deity and avoids causing offense. Only after this step is completed can the subsequent moving or groundbreaking begin.