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Wondering about the month of ghosts in 2023? Things to avoid during this time to ward off misfortune and calamity in life are addressed below.
1. What month is the month of ghosts in 2023?
What is the month of ghosts? The month of ghosts, also known as the 'forgiveness of sins and liberation of souls,' originates from Chinese Taoism. They believe that on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month each year, the King of Hell will open the gates of Hell for the wandering spirits (souls without a resting place) to return to the mortal world, closing them on the 14th lunar day.
The month of ghosts falls on the 7th lunar month, starting from the 1st day of the 7th lunar month to the end of the 29th day of the 7th lunar month. In 2023, the month of ghosts will extend from August 16th of the Gregorian calendar to September 14th of the Gregorian calendar.
Folk belief dictates that during the 7th lunar month, one must abstain and worship carefully to avoid being haunted or disturbed by demons.
Avoid burning gold and silver indiscriminately as it may attract malevolent spirits, affecting your life, fortune, and luck.
Steer clear of swimming during the Ghost Month, especially in rivers, streams, and ponds where Yin energy prevails. Carelessness may lead to sprained ankles, muscle cramps, or even falling prey to spiritual influences.
Avoid standing near banyan or fig trees during the Ghost Month, as they accumulate significant Yin energy around their roots, particularly at night. To evade disturbances from malevolent spirits, refrain from staying close, sitting, lying, or hiding near these trees.
Refrain from hanging wind chimes above your bed. According to folklore, the sound of wind chimes can summon ghosts to your home, disrupting your sleep and daily life.
Avoid engaging in excessive drinking and rowdiness during the Ghost Month, as it may attract unwanted attention from spirits and lead to unfortunate consequences.
Refrain from attending or holding weddings during the Ghost Month, as it is considered inauspicious and may bring bad luck or disturbances from the spirit realm.
Avoid taking photos or selfies at night as malevolent spirits may appear in the frame with you.
When in deserted places, avoid looking back. If you feel like someone is following you or calling your name, do not turn around as it could be a malevolent spirit playing tricks on you. Turning back may lead to being lured into the afterlife.
Do not insert chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice. Since this is a form of offering, malevolent spirits may mistake it for food meant for them, thus entering your home and consuming together.
Avoid staying up too late as weakened bodies are susceptible to demonic influences.
Refrain from purchasing vehicles during the ghost month. If necessary, avoid buying on conflicting days, days with clashing celestial stems and earthly branches.
Avoid going anywhere alone as it may attract malevolent spirits to harass you.
Avoid sewing or buying white clothes during the 7th lunar month.
Do not drop real money.
When in a hospital room, refrain from turning off the lights before sleeping.
Stay away from corners as they are often dark and may harbor hidden spirits.
Avoid wearing clothes with demon images as it can easily tempt spirits.
Avoid carrying bulky items or transporting multiple people on a single vehicle.
