Best Time for Rituals on the 15th Day of the Seventh Lunar Month
In folk belief, the seventh month of the lunar calendar is when King Yama opens the Gates of Hell, allowing lost souls and hungry ghosts to wander into the living world. Thus, this month is also known as the “Ghost Month.” Besides the usual offerings made on the first and full moon days, some families also perform rituals for the wandering spirits (also known as “feeding the masses” or “pardoning the deceased”) and the Buddhist Ullambana ceremony.
Interestingly, both the ghost festival and Ullambana fall on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month. However, each ritual has its own designated time, procedures, and offerings.
According to folk belief, the full moon rituals for the seventh month should be performed before noon on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month.
It is believed that the rituals for the full moon of the seventh month should be performed before noon on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month.
In 2024, the 15th day of the seventh lunar month falls on a Sunday, August 18th, in the Gregorian calendar. This day, being a Quy Suu day, has two auspicious time frames for rituals: 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The ritual for feeding the masses demonstrates the compassion of the living towards homeless spirits. This ritual should be set up outdoors, in front of the house. Some believe that it should be performed before noon on the 15th day, avoiding sunset when the gates of the underworld are believed to close. However, others argue that it should be done in the evening or at night so that the wandering spirits can easily receive the offerings. The timing of this ritual can vary depending on the family’s beliefs and local customs.
The ritual for the Buddhas and deities is usually held in the morning or at noon on the full moon day of the seventh month, preferably between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Offerings for the Full Moon of the Seventh Month
– Offerings for the Buddha
For the Buddha’s offerings, the host family should focus on sincerity and devotion, rather than an abundance of food. These offerings will be vegetarian and placed at the highest point on the altar. Fresh flowers, fruits, and clean water are essential, and vegetarian dishes can also be prepared.
– Offerings for Deities and Ancestors
The offerings for deities and ancestors on the full moon of the seventh month can be either vegetarian or non-vegetarian, depending on the family’s circumstances. In addition, fresh flowers, fruits, incense, and candles are indispensable on the offering tray.
Depending on their circumstances, families can prepare either vegetarian or non-vegetarian offerings for deities and ancestors during the full moon of the seventh month.
– Offerings for Wandering Spirits and Hungry Ghosts
According to folk belief, the offerings for wandering spirits and hungry ghosts should be vegetarian and include rice, salt, plain porridge, fresh fruit, boiled sweet potatoes, boiled cassava, boiled corn, candies, candles, and joss paper. These items symbolize the wish for the lost souls to find peace and liberation.
– Ullambana Ceremony
The Ullambana ceremony is a special Buddhist ritual that reminds people of their roots and the gratitude owed to their parents for giving birth and raising them. On this day, people often participate in traditional ceremonies at temples to pray for peace and prosperity for their families.
Information for reference only. Please consider your circumstances and beliefs.
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