Did you know that this month is the “Hungry Ghost Month”? This is a traditional Buddhist occasion observed every first day of the Chinese calendar’s 7th lunar month.
For this year, the Ghost Month started last Wednesday on August 19 and will end on September 2. Filipinos and Filipino-Chinese who believe in Ghost Month dread this period and avoid making big decisions at this time.
The actual Ghost Day, when spirits are strongest, will be on September 2. Take note of the following taboos during this Ghost Month period:
1. Avoid taking life-changing actions like getting married, moving houses, building or renovation projects, starting a new job or business, hiring new employees, signing an important contract, getting surgery/or making a big purchase like a car or house.
2. Avoid celebrating or spending frivolously.
3. Avoid going out at night.
4. Avoid wearing red, black, or anything dark.. Wear happy colors like pink and yellow. Women should wear flat shoes.
5. Avoid whistling.
6. Avoid turning your head if someone calls your name or taps you on your shoulder.
7. Avoid picking up coins off the ground.
8. Avoid swimming or traveling by sea.
9. Avoid selfies or pranks.
Burning joss paper and whatnot
According to Wes Radez, the Hungry Ghost Month is all about looking after wandering souls. He said that the wandering, hungry ghosts are without families to care for them or people who died because of unfortunate events like murder or suicide. He lists what Chinese families do to placate these unhappy spirits with gifts of food, money, and other supplies.
He starts his step-by-step guide by buying the necessary ritual offerings a week in advance, making floating lanterns two days before and during the Festival., prepare a feast! The focus is on nourishing ancestors and household gods. Typically, the food consists of roast meats or vegetarian dishes to reflect the holiday’s Buddhist ties. He actually encourages everyone to “Eat, drink and be merry — happy noise keeps ghosts away!”
I think I’ll just stick with burning sandalwood incense every evening, right after sunset to appease the spirits and give donations. In fact, during this time, it is highly recommended to donate to charitable organizations and do good deeds to build up more positive karma during the Ghost Month Festival.
Ghost Month is more than a superstition.
It is a reminder for us to observe filial piety, the value of respect, deference, and honoring our parents and ancestors. I must admit that I am guilty of neglecting this duty. I have been living on my own since I left for graduate school many decades ago. I am the only one, apart from a sister who lives abroad, who is not involved in the family business,. Thus, I don’t get to see everyone as much but I”m glad that Viber keeps us in touch every day. As I write this, I made plans this Sunday to have lunch at home. You too should take a chance especially now after the lockdown to find ways to spend time with family.
For this period, I’ve you’ve been on the edge and want to try something straightforward, why not do some healing with me? It is my wish that all of you get through, not only this Ghost Month but also through this pandemic, and that you find joy, peace, and happiness in whatever you do.
In loving service,
Rosan
