This year’s Hungry Ghost Month falls on August 4 to September 2.
Many Chinese believe that the Gates of Hell are open during this period, and ghosts will cross over into the realm of living to roam around, in search of food and entertainment, or to simply visit their living relatives.
Since young, Chinese kids have been told to behave during the Seventh Month, so as to not offend the spirits. But what exactly are the rules to follow?
According to local fengshui expert, Master Hui, here are some things we should absolutely avoid doing.
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Do not go home too late.
“During the Hungry Ghost Month, the ‘yin energy’ at night is particularly strong. You might accidentally bring some of that energy home, resulting in bad luck,” he says Master Hui.
In fengshui, ‘yin energy’ is perceived as negative and passive, and carrying too much of it can lead to a lack of motivation, reduced ability to concentrate, and depression.
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Do not pretend to be a ghost and scare people.
Master Hui mentions that some people might be “tempted” to do such things during this time. However, the spirits might “take offense”.
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Do not take photos or film things at night.
“Take extra precaution when taking photos, and refrain from taking photos in remote looking places,” he advises.
Ever watched the horror movie Shutter? We definitely don’t want that happening to us.
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Do not trim your fingernails or cut your hair at night…
These actions will result in “bad luck”, he says.
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If you hang your clothes out to dry in the day, do not leave them out after the sky turns dark.
On the practical front, there isn’t a need to hang our clothes outside when the sun sets.
However, some also believe that clothes hanging outside will attract visiting spirits and that it allows the spirits to sneak into your house when you gather your laundry.
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Refrain from whistling at night.
“Whistling will actually attract the attention of the spirits,” he says.
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When with friends, remember not to pat their shoulders.
According to Master Hui, our shoulders hold our “fire”, and patting them will result in this “fire getting extinguished”, causing “luck to escape”.
Of course, there are other superstitions, such as staying away from bodies of water, and not picking up things, especially money, that we spot on the streets.