Feng shui expert Nguyen Song Ha states that the seventh lunar month, also known as the “ghost month,” is a time for “releasing the sins of the departed” – a significant belief in Vietnamese culture.
In addition to preparing offerings, the expert also advises on things to avoid during this month according to folk beliefs so that homeowners can welcome good fortune and peace.
In addition to preparing offerings, the expert advises on things to avoid and things to do during this month for homeowners to welcome good fortune and peace.
Superstitions and Taboos During the Seventh Lunar Month:
Avoid going out at night, especially for those who are weak-willed or children.
Do not hang clothes out to dry at night to prevent bad luck.
Avoid night swimming to prevent dangerous situations.
Do not stay up too late, as it can affect your health and make you more susceptible to negative influences.
Avoid standing, sitting, lying down, or hiding under banyan or fig trees in front of your house, as these places are believed to have negative spiritual energy.
When passing through deserted places or cemeteries, do not turn back or respond, even if you feel someone is following you or calling your name.
Refrain from taking pictures at temples, pagodas, or shrines during the seventh lunar month.
Avoid conception from the 12th to the 18th of the seventh lunar month.
Do not undertake construction or grand opening ceremonies, such as groundbreaking, roof-sealing, or housewarming events during this month.
Avoid buying or selling houses or land for living purposes from the 12th to the 18th of the seventh lunar month.
Do not wash your hair after 11:00 PM to prevent bad luck.
Do not hang wind chimes in the bedroom or near the head of your bed, as the sound of the chimes may disturb your sleep.
When offering sacrifices, it is recommended to do so outdoors, in the yard, on the street, or at a temple or pagoda. Avoid burning unnecessary paper and joss paper. After offering sacrifices or visiting cemeteries, men should walk through fire seven times, and women nine times, before entering the house.
Do not eat offerings meant for ghosts and spirits; doing so before the ritual is complete may bring disaster.
Things to Do During the Seventh Lunar Month for Good Fortune and Smooth Sailing:
Boost Vitality: According to the seasonal calendar, the seventh lunar month usually goes through three stages: Đại Thử, Lập Thu, and Xử Thử.
Đại Thử: This is the hottest time of the year with oppressive heat due to the influence of storms and tropical depressions in the summer.
Lập Thu: Marks the transition between summer and autumn, with alternating hot and cold spells, indicating the beginning of autumn.
Xử Thử: Signals a drop in temperature, bringing a cooler climate and marking the end of the hot period.
To welcome a peaceful seventh lunar month, homeowners should focus on boosting their immune system, nourishing their health, and maintaining regular exercise for themselves and their families.
The transition between Đại Thử and Lập Thu can negatively impact health due to prolonged humid weather from storms and prolonged rain. This can weaken the body, especially for those with low immunity, such as children and the elderly.
To welcome a peaceful seventh lunar month, homeowners should focus on boosting their immune system, nourishing their health, and maintaining regular exercise for themselves and their families. These preparations will help you navigate the seasonal transition from summer to autumn with greater ease.
Choose an Auspicious Day for Cleaning and Redecorating the Ancestral Altar
Cleaning and redecorating the ancestral altar is essential during the seventh lunar month, which coincides with the Vu Lan Buddhist holiday and the ritual of “releasing the sins of the departed.” This act not only keeps the altar clean and more spiritually responsive but also demonstrates the homeowner’s sincerity toward Buddha, Saints, Gods, and departed ancestors.
Offerings on the First Day of the Month
As the first day of the seventh lunar month signifies a new beginning, it is crucial to perform the offering ritual with sincerity and attention to detail.
Visit Temples
During the seventh lunar month, most Buddhists make it a point to visit temples at least once to pray for health and peace for their families and to make donations. These activities bring peace of mind, and even non-Buddhists often volunteer at temples to do good deeds.
Perform Good Deeds
Strive to do more good deeds during this month to accumulate virtue for yourself and your family, according to folk beliefs and Buddhist teachings.
Visit the Graves of Loved Ones
In addition to offering sacrifices to wandering souls, families also usually visit the graves of their loved ones or go to the temple where their loved ones’ remains are kept.
Avoid Taking Risks
During the seventh lunar month, it is not advisable to rush into speculative or risky ventures, as failure and loss are likely. Wealth may come slowly and leave quickly, so patience is key. Wait for opportunities and consider carefully before making significant expenses.
According to feng shui expert Phung Phuong, here are some additional measures to enhance good fortune:
Keep lights on in the southeast, west, south, southwest, and east areas of your home.
Keep pets and add more greenery to your living space.
Open your windows daily.
Prune dense foliage and trees around your house.
Avoid sleeping over at a stranger’s house.
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