Supernatural Etiquette: Navigating the Lunar 7th Month Practices and Taboos

The Lunar 7th Month, often referred to as the Ghost Month, is a traditional belief and cultural practice observed by some East Asian communities, particularly by the Chinese in China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia. It falls on the 7th month of the lunar calendar, which is typically around August or September in the Gregorian calendar. The Ghost Month is believed to be a time when the gates of the underworld open, and restless spirits and ghosts are allowed to visit the living realm. The taboos associated with the Lunar 7th Month stem from the desire to avoid attracting the attention of these wandering spirits and to show respect to them. Here are some of the taboos and practices observed during this period:

Practices

1. Offerings and Rituals: Throughout the Ghost Month, people offer various items to appease and provide for the wandering spirits. These offerings typically include incense, candles, joss paper (often referred to as "hell money"), and food. These offerings are placed on makeshift altars or outside homes as a way to provide for the spirits.

2. The Hungry Ghost Festival: The 15th day of the Lunar 7th Month is considered the Hungry Ghost Festival. During this time, larger-scale events and performances might take place, including traditional Chinese opera, getai (concerts), and puppet shows. These events are intended to entertain and provide for the spirits. In Singapore, the festival is observed throughout the entire Lunar 7th Month.

3. Religious Observances: While the Ghost Month is rooted in Chinese folk religion and beliefs, it's also observed by followers of Taoism and Buddhism. Temples and monasteries might hold special ceremonies and rituals during this time to pray for the well-being of the living and the spirits.

Taboos

1. Avoidance of Outdoor Activities at Night: It is believed that ghosts and spirits are most active during the night. Therefore, many people avoid going out at night to prevent encounters with these supernatural entities.

2. Avoid Yin Places: Yin places like funerals, cemeteries and hospitals are filled with negative energies and should be avoided when possible.

3. Avoiding Swimming or Water Activities: Drowning accidents are associated with this month, so people avoid swimming or engaging in water-related activities to minimize the risk of accidents or encounters with malevolent spirits.

4. Avoiding Whistling or Calling Names: Whistling or calling names is believed to attract the attention of ghosts and spirits. It's thought that doing so may lead these entities to follow you, causing disturbances or misfortune.

5. Avoiding Staying Out Late: People try to return home before dark to avoid encounters with wandering spirits. Being out late is thought to increase the likelihood of crossing paths with these supernatural beings.

6. Avoiding Moving or Renovating Homes: Traditionally, moving into a new house or renovating an existing one is considered inauspicious during the Ghost Month. It is believed that doing so may disturb the spirits that might be present in the space and bring bad luck to the occupants.

7. Avoiding holding Celebrations: Many people avoid holding celebrations like weddings or opening of a new business during this month. Celebratory activities might disturb the spirits and draw their attention. Some people believe that such disturbances could lead to unwanted supernatural encounters or negative outcomes.

8. Avoiding Wearing Red or Black Clothes: Wearing red or black is believed to attract the attention of spirits. Therefore, wearing too much of red and black can be seen as an invitation for the spirits to follow you around.

9. Avoiding Picking Up Money or Objects from the Ground: It's said that spirits might place objects on the ground as offerings or traps. Picking up such items could lead to unwanted supernatural interactions.

10. Avoiding Negative or Unlucky Topics: Discussions about death, illness, or other negative topics are discouraged during the Ghost Month. These discussions are believed to attract negative energies and spirits.

11. Avoid Hanging Clothes Outside at Night: It's believed that spirits might be drawn to clothes hung outside at night, mistaking them for human forms.

12. Don't Step on Ashes or Offerings: During the Ghost Month, people burn offerings like incense and paper money for the spirits. Stepping on these ashes or offerings is seen as disrespectful and might anger the spirits.

13. Avoid Staring into Mirrors at Night: It's believed that mirrors might attract spirits or even trap them. Staring into mirrors at night is seen as potentially inviting supernatural occurrences.

It's important to note that the observance of these taboos can vary depending on individual beliefs and cultural practices. While some people adhere strictly to these customs, others might view them as superstitions and not follow them closely. The Ghost Month is deeply rooted in East Asian cultural and religious beliefs, and its taboos aim to show respect for the spiritual realm and maintain harmony between the living and the dead.