Why is the seventh month of the lunar calendar called the Month of Ghosts?

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In Vietnamese folklore, the seventh month of the lunar calendar is referred to as the Month of Ghosts every year. But what exactly is the Month of Ghosts? Let's explore its origin in the following article.

Annually, the seventh month of the lunar calendar is also known as the Month of Ghosts or the “Opening of the Ghost Gate.” Folklore believes this is the month of spirits and demons, especially on the full moon day of the seventh month, known as the day of 'liberating sinful souls' – the day when the King of Hell opens the Demon Gate for spirits to return to the living world. This is also the day of 'negative energy ascending to the heavens.'

The origin of the Month of Ghosts, according to folklore, is closely tied to the Daoist culture of China.

The enduring tale recounts that on the 2nd day of the lunar 7th month, King Yama opens the Demon Gate to allow hungry spirits to return to the mortal realm and then go back on the full moon. Following folklore customs, people must offer porridge, rice, and salt to appease the hungry spirits, preventing them from disturbing daily life.

In certain places, the hungry spirits are called 'good brothers' or the 'gods behind the door' to win the favor of these famished souls. Every year, Chinese people perform rituals for the Ghost Month on the 14th day of the lunar 7th month.

Nevertheless, many experts assert that the origin of the Ghost Month is not solely from China. Other cultures, such as India, Cambodia, or Japan, share beliefs about the lunar 7th month, and these traditions may predate Buddhism. Folklore tells of King Yama (ruler of the underworld) opening the gates of hell, allowing some spirits to participate in earthly rituals.

YahooLife explains that the Ghost Month is a fusion of Daoist and Buddhist cultures. In various regions with different beliefs, people observe distinct customs and worship practices.

While Daoist philosophy focuses on appeasing wandering souls, in Buddhist culture, people lean towards expressing filial piety and remembering ancestors.

In Vietnam, honoring the Ghost Month is a traditional spiritual belief passed down through generations. Vietnamese people believe that humans consist of two parts: the soul and the body. When a person passes away, and the soul persists, some may be reincarnated, while others may descend to hell, becoming hungry spirits disturbing the living world.

Annually, Vietnamese people observe the Ghost Month, lasting a month, varying among families and regions. Typically, they perform rituals on the 2nd, 15th, and 16th days of the 7th lunar month. Some places may conduct the rituals earlier or later, but they all take place in the evening.

Folklore suggests that during the lunar 7th month, the spiritual energy beneath the ground rises, leading people to infer that it is the lingering souls of the deceased. Hence, folklore believes the lunar 7th month is a time when the gates of hell open, and spirits can escape.

People also believe that the Ghost Month is a month of ghosts and demons, bringing misfortune. Therefore, most activities such as weddings, construction commencements, shopping, and long-distance travels are avoided during the 7th lunar month.

Posted by: Chuyen Nguyen

Keywords: Why is the lunar 7th month called the Month of Ghosts?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cultural origins of the Month of Ghosts in Vietnam?

The Month of Ghosts in Vietnam originates from Daoist culture and is closely tied to folklore about King Yama opening the Demon Gate. This event allows hungry spirits to return to the living world, particularly on the full moon of the seventh lunar month.

How do people honor the Month of Ghosts in Vietnam?

People honor the Month of Ghosts by performing rituals on specific days, particularly the 2nd, 15th, and 16th of the lunar 7th month. They offer food such as porridge and rice to appease spirits and prevent disturbances in daily life.

Why do people avoid certain activities during the Month of Ghosts?

During the Month of Ghosts, many activities such as weddings and travel are avoided due to beliefs that the presence of spirits can bring misfortune. This cautious approach stems from the fear of disturbing wandering souls.

How does the Month of Ghosts relate to other cultures?

The Month of Ghosts is not unique to Vietnam; it shares similarities with beliefs in other cultures, such as India, Cambodia, and Japan. These traditions reflect a broader cultural understanding of honoring ancestors and spirits during the lunar seventh month.