By Brian Jules Campued
The seventh month of the year, according to the Chinese lunar calendar, is called “Hungry Ghost Month”—both a frightening and festive holiday for Buddhist and Taoist followers in East Asia and Southeast Asia.
During this time, it is said that the gates of hell are open—giving way for ghastly spirits to wander the world of the living and may cause unfortunate events to occur. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, Ghost Month is considered inauspicious for important events and decisions, so everyone is advised to take precautions.
Being influenced by the Filipino-Chinese community, most Pinoys also follow general tips to ward off bad luck during Ghost Month—especially when it comes to business, money, and relationship matters.
In an interview with Rise and Shine Pilipinas, feng shui expert Master Hanz Cua also gave us some dos and don’ts for a safe and peaceful observance of the occasion, which started on August 4 and will end on September 2.
So, whether you believe in superstition or you don’t, you might want to follow these practices instead of unknowingly angering malicious ghosts roaming about:
- Try not to take part in new major activities to further reduce the risk of misfortune during the month. As such, starting a business during Ghost Month is risky because “hungry ghosts” might interfere with the venture and cause it to fail.
- Avoid signing contracts or investments. However, if it is unavoidable (or the opportunity is something you have waited a long time for), ask for a “lucky date” in the Ghost Month and pray religiously before signing.
- Postpone the construction of a new house. Might as well avoid visiting an old house.
- No matter how deep your affection is towards a person you like, Master Hanz asks you to refrain from courting them, as it can also lead to failure. Couples should also avoid getting married during the month because they might separate in the future.
- Avoid going home late at night because ghosts are stronger during the night, which may put you in potential danger or fall into accidents. If staying out late is unavoidable, Master Hanz advises people to pray, have a presence of mind, and be mindful of their surroundings.
- As much as possible, Master Hanz also tells people to avoid wearing negative colors such as black or white, as these can make it easier for vengeful spirits to latch onto you. Wear bright colors instead to enhance positive energy.
- Going on a trip during Ghost Month is also not recommended, as people can be prone to accidents or are likely to experience problems while traveling. To reduce the risk, Master Hanz suggests tying a red-, yellow-, or any bright-colored ribbon to your bag or suitcase; lighting nine pieces of incense around your bag or suitcase and praying for safe travels; and wearing ghost month protectors or charms.
- To chase away bad luck, make your home as bright as possible—open the windows and use red or other bright-colored curtains. Put salt on the window sills or doorways to prevent ghosts from entering your home.
- Ring a bell or clap in areas not usually frequented by people in your house.
- Offer prayers, food, and drinks to the deceased to make them happy and attract blessings, good luck, and success. However, avoid offering fruits such as bananas, longan, lychee, or grapes because they symbolize one death after another.
- You may also burn replicas of money and jewelry.
- Light a white candle if your loved ones have already passed away for a year; yellow if more than one year but less than three years; and red if more than three years.
According to Master Hanz, we should not be afraid of Ghost Month, as it only reminds us of our loved ones who have already passed and need our prayers so they will not turn into hungry ghosts. While it may sound spooky to some, Ghost Month also gives spirits the chance to be happier or find livelier energy.
Do you follow any traditions during the so-called Ghost Month? -av
