Today is the first day of the seventh lunar month which is also referred to as the Ghost Month by the Chinese. Why? It is because the gates of Hades are open on this day and the dead get to take a vacation in the world of the living.
The Chinese believe that there will be an increase in the incidence of accidents and deaths during the Ghost month. This is because the underworld spirits visit the earth during this time. During this month people prepare big feasts to entertain the many roaming ghosts.
Here are some taboos of what not to do during this month:
- Weddings, special plans, business deals and outings should be put on hold till the end of the month.
- Do not whistle. Whistling will lead the ghost straight to your home.
- Do not talk ill of the dead (even if it's true) as it will just bring tears and heartache;
- Special care should be taken when walking along riverbanks where a water ghost can easily steal a living spirit.
On the 30th day of the seventh lunar month, the gates of Hades are closed again and the ghosts return to the underworld.
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