The Chinese Ghost Month commenced two weeks ago, we Chinese believed that the spirits of the dead would be released so they can visit earth during this time.
We burn incense, offer lavish food and paper Mache’ replicas of things such as clothing and gold ingots to the spirit of our dead ancestors to give them comfort in the afterlife.
lavish food offerings for hungry ghosts
Then there are wandering spirits with no relatives to venerate them after their death or those who had a terrible death or did not receive a proper burial who must be appeased or they will bring bad luck and misfortune.
Yesterday was the 15th day of the month and believed to be the most risky day. :P
With a few friends, my husband and I visited The Goddess of Mercy temple to offer prayers. The temple was packed with worshippers.
free joss sticks for worshippers
Many activities are avoided during Ghost Month. No swimming or walking near riverbanks as water spirits are believed to be lying in wait for a chance to reincarnate. :P
Travelling, moving to a new home, surgical procedures or weddings are postponed. Business deals are avoided at this time. And no staying out after the sun sets.
Oops...... I have to rush out for some groceries and return to the safety of my home before the sun goes down ......
Wordless Wednesday
wow! is that BBQ pork!? this is very interesting!! :D
ReplyDeleteniki
I used to feel the full blast of the Hungry Ghost celebration when I lived in Jalan Genting Klang. All the shows, the food, the suckling pigs. ;)
ReplyDeleteSo, judging by this post and your comments, you return safely home? No ghostly encounters, ECL? ^^
ReplyDeleteHi Niki,
ReplyDeleteYes, it's a whole BBQ pig! :D
Lina,
ReplyDeleteChoi!! Better not encounter ghosts.
I quickly return home after getting what I need .... buy lots of garlic too. hahaha....
The Hungry Ghost Month is so exciting and interesting. Haven't been going to the shows as it is usually crowded and ends late at night.
Must set good example for my son. Tell him to be back before the sun sets, I cannot break my own rule. :D
Very interesting post, Eastcostlife!
ReplyDeleteThis time takes place the 1 st of November, here in France! There is always a time in the year for our ancestors, everywhere you live! And it's a good thing! Our civilisations have nice rituals!
It sounds very exciting - I bet you can't stop thinking about food! Such colour and smells ... now you have me thinking about food too!!!! Lol!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great tradition. I like it.
ReplyDeleteHave a terrific day. :)
So on the 14th night gotta sing CCR's "Bad Moon Rising" and dont go out tonite but stay home huh!
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. I had never heard of this. It makes for enjoyable reading. But why for just two weeks? Perhaps there are too many former Civil Service employees on the other side calling the shots!
ReplyDeleteThe festival is widely celebrated in Penang too. what really creeps me out is how the monks will sing spooky songs dedicated to the wandering spirits or ghosts during the prayer sessions.
ReplyDelete