The Chinese belief states that, from the 2nd day of the lunar month to the end of the 15th day, the King of Hell will grant a general amnesty, opening the gates of the underworld and allowing the wandering souls to return to the living world to cause havoc in people’s lives. This period is known as the “Hungry Ghost Month,” which falls on the 7th lunar month.
Find out when the “Hungry Ghost Month” is in 2023, its origins, and its significance.
1 When is the “Hungry Ghost Month” in 2023?
The “Hungry Ghost Month” occurs during the 7th lunar month every year, starting from the 1st day to the end of the month. In 2023, it will span from August 16th (1st of the lunar month) to September 14th (30th of the lunar month) on the Gregorian calendar.
However, according to ancient beliefs, after the 15th day, there are fewer wandering souls as the King of Hell closes the Gates of Hell at midnight on the 14th day of the lunar month.
The rituals are usually performed in the late afternoon or at night. This is because people believe that the spirits returning from the underworld are weak and cannot withstand the sunlight. Therefore, if the rituals are held in the morning, the wandering souls will not be able to receive the offerings and enjoy the blessings.
The customs and rituals of offering food to the wandering souls serve two purposes: first, to ward off the potential disturbances caused by these spirits, and second, to comfort these souls to alleviate their suffering from hell, and finally, to pray for the peace of the deceased ancestors’ souls.
The “Hungry Ghost Month” in 2023 will last from August 16th to September 14th.
Reference: What are the festivals in the 7th lunar month? And what are
2 Taboos During the “Hungry Ghost Month”
In addition to performing rituals for the wandering souls, it is essential to pay attention to certain dos and don’ts in daily life during this month. According to ancient beliefs, the “Hungry Ghost Month” is a time when ghosts and demons are active, and it is believed that “what you worship will bless you, and what you avoid will spare you”. Therefore, it is crucial to follow certain taboos to avoid bad luck and being haunted by evil spirits.
Some taboos during the “Hungry Ghost Month” include: not going out at night, not burning joss paper or hell money, not hanging clothes out to dry at night, not picking up loose change, etc.
Learn more about what to avoid during the Cold Food Festival? What should be done on the 3rd day of the lunar month? on our website!
Reference: What are the 17 taboos during the “Hungry Ghost Month”?
3 What to Do During the “Hungry Ghost Month”
What to do and what to avoid during the “Hungry Ghost Month”
In addition to being mindful of the taboos, it is also advisable to carry certain items with you during the “Hungry Ghost Month” according to ancient beliefs. This is believed to help ward off bad luck. Some of the items include: ewi necklace, salt, garlic, glutinous rice, mugwort, etc.
Reference: What are the taboos during the “Hungry Ghost Month” and what to do
What to do and what not to do during the “Hungry Ghost Month”
4 How to Perform Rituals for the Wandering Souls
What should be included in the offering for the wandering souls?
When performing rituals for the wandering souls during the 7th lunar month, the first thing to ensure is that the offering must be prepared meticulously and include all the necessary items. Regardless of the occasion, a poorly prepared offering may lead to adverse effects and bad luck.
Reference: What should be included in the offering for the wandering souls? The most appropriate way to perform the ritual
What should be included in the offering for the wandering souls?
The proper incantation for the wandering souls
After preparing all the necessary items for the offering, it is advisable to have a proper incantation ready to recite during the ritual.
Doing so ensures that the ritual is performed thoroughly and sincerely, increasing the chances of achieving your desired outcomes.
Reference: Proper incantation for the wandering souls
4 What is the “Hungry Ghost Month”? Its Origins and Significance
According to folklore, the 7th lunar month is known as the “Hungry Ghost Month” because it is believed that, from the 2nd day to the 14th day of the lunar month, ghosts and demons are allowed by the King of Hell to return to the living world to visit their former homes. This belief is the main reason why people avoid undertaking important tasks during this month.
The tradition of offering rituals to the wandering souls originated from China and is associated with a story about Mr. A Nan, who was foretold by a ghost that he would die within three days. The ghost taught A Nan how to avoid this fate, and A Nan later shared this story with Buddha, who then taught him a mantra to recite while performing rituals according to the ghost’s instructions.
The origins and significance of the “Hungry Ghost Month”
5 Well-Wishes for the “Hungry Ghost Month”
1. On the first day of the “Hungry Ghost Month,” I wish you good luck and prosperity throughout this month.
2. Wishing everyone a month filled with robust health and prosperous business endeavors.
3. May the first day of this month bring you joy and youthfulness, leading to good luck throughout the entire month!
4. The world is a strange place, especially during the 7th lunar month. May you be surrounded by love and kindness from those around you during this month.
5. As the “Hungry Ghost Month” approaches, I wish everyone good luck, peace, and smooth sailing.
6. Let’s hope that the “Hungry Ghost Month” doesn’t bring you fatigue or discouragement. Stay positive, and the ghosts will naturally stay away from you.
Heartfelt wishes for the “Hungry Ghost Month”
The information provided above covers the necessary rituals for the wandering souls during the “Hungry Ghost Month,” including the offering and incantation, as well as the taboos to follow. Hopefully, this article from our website has been helpful to you! Check out our article on for more insights!
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