Ghost Month, observed during the seventh month of the lunar calendar, is deeply rooted in East Asian cultures, especially Chinese traditions. It is believed that during this time, the gates of the underworld opened, allowing ghosts and spirits, including deceased ancestors, to visit the living world. The history of Ghost Month can be traced back to ancient Taoist and Buddhist practices, where rituals and customs were developed to honor the dead and protect the living from wandering spirits.
Origins and traditions
Ghost Month originated from the ancient Chinese tradition of ancestor worship. It was believed that the spirits of the deceased needed to be appeased with offerings and rituals. Over time, this practice evolved, incorporating elements of Taoism and Buddhism. In Taoist belief, the seventh month is a time when the spirits of the deceased are allowed to roam freely among the living. In Buddhism, the Ullambana Festival, which occurs on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, is a time to pay respects to deceased ancestors and perform rituals to relieve their suffering.
As these traditions merged, Ghost Month became marked by various customs and rituals aimed at appeasing and protecting against the spirits. Families would offer food, burn incense, and perform rituals to honor their ancestors and ensure their safety.
Protective Amulets During Ghost Month
To protect themselves from wandering spirits, people use various amulets and talismans. These protective items are believed to shield individuals from negative energies and bring good fortune.
Common Ghost Month Amulets
- Jade Amulets: Jade is highly valued in East Asian cultures for its protective properties. Wearing jade pendants or carrying small jade pieces is thought to protect the wearer from negative energies and harmful spirits.
2. Fu Talismans: Fu talismans, created by Taoist priests, are made of yellow paper inscribed with protective symbols and characters. These talismans are believed to possess strong protective powers and are commonly placed in homes, businesses, or carried by individuals to ward off evil.
3. Buddhist Amulets: Buddhist amulets, featuring images of Buddha or Bodhisattvas, are worn or kept in homes for protection and to bring good fortune. These amulets are often blessed by monks to enhance their protective powers.
4. Bagua Mirrors: The Bagua mirror, an octagonal mirror surrounded by the eight trigrams of the I Ching, is used to deflect negative energies and spirits
5. Coins and Bells: Strings of old Chinese coins or small bells are used as charms to ward off spirits. The sound of the bells is believed to scare away evil entities, making them a popular protective measure.
6. Red String Bracelets: Red string bracelets are worn for protection against evil spirits. In Chinese culture, red symbolizes good fortune and protection, making these bracelets a simple yet effective amulet.
Usage and Significance
People often wear these amulets as jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, or rings, to keep them close and provide constant protection. In homes and businesses, amulets and talismans are strategically placed at entry points like doors and windows to block spirits from entering. Additionally, many individuals have these amulets blessed by monks or spiritual leaders to enhance their protective powers.
Using these protective measures during Ghost Month provides peace of mind and a sense of security, allowing individuals to navigate this spiritually charged period with confidence. By honoring these traditions, people hope to maintain harmony and protect themselves from unseen forces believed to be more active during this time.
Similar Practices in the Philippines
In the Philippines, there are similar traditions and beliefs surrounding spirits and ancestors, particularly during All Saints’ Day (Undas) and All Souls’ Day. These events, held on November 1 and 2 respectively, are a time for Filipinos to honor their deceased loved ones.
During Undas, families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their relatives. They offer flowers, candles, and prayers, much like the offerings made during Ghost Month. The belief is that by showing respect and care for the deceased, families can ensure their ancestors’ spirits are at peace.
Filipinos also have their protective charms and rituals to ward off evil spirits. Some common practices include:
- Anting-anting (Amulets): Similar to the Chinese jade amulets, Filipinos use various anting-anting beliefs to protect against harm and evil spirits. These can be made from different materials like metals, stones, or herbs, and often feature religious symbols.
- Pagpag Ritual: After attending a wake or visiting a cemetery, some Filipinos perform the pagpag ritual, which involves stopping at a place other than their home to shake off any lingering spirits. This is done to prevent spirits from following them home.
- Sabit ng Palaspas: On Palm Sunday, Filipinos bring home blessed palm fronds (palaspas) and place them over doorways and windows. This is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to the household.
- Use of Holy Water and Religious Icons: Many Filipino homes have religious icons such as crucifixes, statues of saints, and bottles of holy water. These are believed to protect the household from negative energies and evil spirits.
The use of protective amulets during Ghost Month gives people peace of mind and a sense of security, allowing them to confidently navigate this spiritually charged period. By honoring these traditions and using amulets such as jade pendants, Fu talismans, Buddhist charms, Bagua mirrors, coins, bells, and red string bracelets, individuals hope to maintain harmony and protect themselves from unseen forces. These ancient practices are a testament to the rich cultural heritage and the enduring belief in the power of spiritual protection. As Ghost Month approaches, equipping oneself with these protective charms can help ensure a safe and serene experience amidst the wandering spirits. Similarly, Filipino practices during Undas and other local traditions highlight a shared respect for ancestors and a common desire for spiritual protection.
