Ghost Festival

Have you ever watched horror movies of Hong Kong production?
If you did, you may notice that there're always some old ladies in the movie burning incense, joss paper or paper-mache forms of clothes, cars, houses and earthly items? Or you may be seeing some operas being performed outside of the temple.




The 14th day of the seventh Chinese lunar month is known as the Ghost Festival
(Also known as Hungry Ghost Festival or Yu Lan), and this is when the Chinese will show their honour to their deceased ancestors as well as the others ghosts and spirits.
The Buddhists believe that during this month, the gates of hell are opened.
Ghosts are free to roam the Earth. If it sounds like a holiday (for the ghosts) You’re right! As even ghosts need a break.



The living descendants will burn incense and joss paper
as food and money for the spirits.



Chinese opera is performed for all spirits, gods and also human beings to watch.
It's like a holiday to spend eating out, shopping around and watching a movie.



Ceremonies will be held by Buddhists or Taoists to relive ghosts from suffering as well.



Since it's a holiday for the ghosts and spirits, you might be walking in the same road at the same time with them. As long as you show your respect and try not to offend them during their happy holidays, the 7th month of lunar calendar will be no different from your common July. But how does one avoid close encounters with the spirited kind?



Since the descendants will worship the ghosts and spirits by burning incense and joss papers, make sure you do not step over their 'foods, clothes and money', which will be placed by the roadside. Just as when you're eating, you will not be happy if someone comes across and comments how disgusting your food is.
So, never make any comment about the smell of burning incenses or joss papers.




Don't ever try to act cool by cursing or swearing around. Who knows if the ghost was just in front of you when you shout out your 'bad words'. For guys, do not to pee anywhere. 'They' might just be standing by your side and didn't get to move away in time.
Also, remind yourself often not to answer if you hear your name being shouted when you're walking on your own at night.




There are more do's and don'ts. However, ghosts and human have something in common - respect for each other.
So, if you did something wrong unintentionally, make your apologies.
Even Confucius said,
"Respect ghosts and gods, but keep away from them."