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Does Carrying a Knife and Garlic During the ‘Ghost Month’ Keep Evil Spirits at Bay? Unraveling the Truth Behind This Long-Standing Practice

The seventh lunar month is often associated with ghostly hauntings and supernatural fears. It is believed that the gates of hell open during this period, releasing spirits and ghosts upon the earth. This month is considered inauspicious and many take extra precautions to ward off any potential paranormal encounters.

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2 August, 2024

In folk belief, the seventh month is when many wandering souls roam. Thus, the seventh month is considered the heaviest month of the year in terms of yin energy. Folk tales warn that carrying knives, sharp objects, or garlic can help ward off evil spirits. Hence, many people often keep these items by their bedside to ensure a good night’s sleep or carry them when going out during the seventh lunar month to avoid being followed by vagrant souls.

Can knives and garlic really repel ghosts?

From a Feng Shui perspective, sharp objects like knives can indeed instill fear in vagrant souls and drive them away. However, carrying or keeping knives and sharp objects close by may pose safety hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize safety and be cautious when handling such items. Additionally, the sharp edges of knives and pointed objects can create negative energy, affecting the Feng Shui of a space. Wielding a sharp knife when going out may also attract unwanted attention or, worse, cause accidental bleeding, which could attract evil spirits.

Knives and garlic may have the opposite effect

In contrast, garlic is believed to attract evil spirits in Buddhist teachings, and practitioners are advised to refrain from consuming it to prevent being haunted by ghosts. Therefore, the practice of carrying garlic depends on one’s religious beliefs and may not be universally effective for repelling evil spirits.

Safe tips to avoid ghosts and negative energy

Wear a silk tree wood ring: Silk tree wood is believed to possess strong yin energy, making it effective against ghosts and evil spirits. For generations, people have recommended hanging silk tree branches indoors or wearing silk tree wood rings for protection, especially for the elderly, young children, and those who are easily spooked.

Wear a five-color thread bracelet: The five-color thread is also symbolic of good luck and repels negative energy. Therefore, during the seventh month, people often wear these colorful threads to protect children from evil influences.

Mugwort is a folk remedy for repelling negative energy

Hang mugwort: Mugwort is a plant with strong yang energy. Folk practices involve hanging mugwort in the house, carrying it in pockets, or using mugwort-infused water for bathing or burning to drive away negative energy and bring good fortune to the household.

Avoid wearing white or black clothing: These two colors are traditionally associated with mourning and heavy yin energy, so it is best to avoid them during the seventh lunar month. Wearing these colors may also cause confusion among vagrant souls, leading them to believe you are one of them, resulting in unwanted attention from spirits.

Refrain from burning incense at night: The scent of incense may attract wandering souls, potentially causing trouble for the residents of the house.

Frequently asked questions

The practice of carrying a knife and garlic as a protective measure during the Ghost Month is a long-standing tradition in some Asian cultures. While there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of this practice, it is believed that the sharp knife symbolizes cutting through negative energies, while garlic, with its strong odor, is thought to repel evil spirits.

In traditional Chinese culture, the seventh month of the lunar calendar is believed to be when the gates of the underworld open and the spirits of the deceased are free to roam the Earth. This belief has led to the month being associated with increased spiritual activity and a need for extra protection against potential negative encounters.

During the Ghost Month, people may also burn incense and offer food and prayers to their ancestors and departed loved ones. It is believed that these practices help to honor and appease the spirits, ensuring their blessings and protection.

While there may be no scientific proof of the supernatural effects, the psychological comfort and sense of empowerment that these objects provide cannot be overlooked. The act of carrying protective items can instill a sense of control and safety in individuals who believe in these traditional practices.

Indeed, the use of symbolic objects to ward off evil or negative energies is prevalent in many cultures worldwide. For example, in Western folklore, garlic has long been associated with protection against vampires, and amulets or talismans are often used to ward off the ‘evil eye’ or bring good luck.