No, it’s not (just) the haze- it’s that time of the year again when the first thing you’d smell when you come out of your door would be that of the burning incense. The Hungry Ghost Festival is believed by Buddhists and Taoists that the gates of the netherworld are open and spirits and can roam freely between our world and theirs. Accompanying the festival will be the many superstitions and “rules” that mostly centres around pregnant women and children.
So whether you believe it or not, here are some superstitions that you might want to take note of because after all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
#1 Avoid water activities
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Because the gates of the other world are open, it is believed that the waters will be filled with spirits of those that have drowned. Pregnant mummies who go swimming are said to be putting both themselves and their unborn child at risk of being possessed.
#2 Don’t kill insects
Okay, but if you’re a kind-hearted, animal-loving person, you wouldn’t kill insects all year round. But during this month, it is believed that these insects are actually your ancestors reincarnated. So just imagine killing that one mosquito when you’re actually killing your great grandmother!
#3 Don’t step on offerings
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Let’s not even pretend that you’ve never heard of this superstition or rather, warning. There are so many stories and tales about those that step on offerings and received less than happy endings. The reason? Simple. Stepping on offerings might offend the spirits.
#4 Don’t get home too late
Again, the stories and tales surrounding this superstition (ahem, warning) is enough to tell you why you shouldn’t be home late. And besides, if you follow the very infamous Asian taboo, you shouldn’t get home late every other day of the year as well!
#5 Avoid 7th-month festivals
These celebrations are totally a no-go for pregnant mummies and children because they are said to be “attended” by spirits and these spirits are especially attracted to pregnant mummies and children. It is said that if a pregnant mummy happens to walk past these celebrations or festivals, just rub your tummy and comfort your little one by talking to him/her.
#6 Stay away from wind chimes
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Wind chimes are said to attract the spirits as the two metals hitting each other can be interpreted as an invitation to them. So don’t worry about the minus one home decoration, it’s only for a month!
Mummies, do you know of any other superstition? Do share them with us!