By Ma. Cristina C. Arayata
MANILA, Aug 13 (PNA) — Why do people say it’s “Ghost Month” this August? How come “Ghost Month” falls on August and not October or November where Halloween and All Souls’ Day is celebrated? Maybe many Filipinos like me have these same questions.
I asked a Chinese-Filipino friend to enlighten me on this matter. Genson Gan, a PR account manager from Full Circle Communications Inc., gave an overview of what Ghost Month is all about.
”For us (Chinese-Filipinos), it is the month when we’re very careful, because it’s the time when hungry ghosts visit and wander around spontaneously,” he explained.
Like other occasions, Ghost Month is being observed every year – during the 7th Lunar month. Gan noted that the schedule is based on the Lunar calendar, which is different from the calendar we regularly use. That is why, Ghost Month usually falls either on July or August. For this year, Ghost Month falls on August 14 until September 12.
There are certain beliefs that people practice in every particular occasion (e.g. wearing clothes with polka dots and having 12 kinds of round-shaped fruits every New Year’s eve).
But during Ghost Month, what do the Chinese do?
Their parents and grandparents taught them to place food and incense (joss sticks) at the doorsteps, so that the ghosts would not enter the house.
To appease the ghosts, Chinese also burn ‘fake money’ outside the house.
”We’re extra careful when traveling. If possible, we try to avoid long travels, whether local or abroad,” Gan said. Chinese believe they’re at risk of becoming victims of accidents and misfortunes during this time. Furthermore, they don’t stay outside late at night to avoid accidents.
In terms of business and money, Gan shared the following major beliefs.
They don’t buy houses, cars or spend on any big purchases. It’s also a no-no to sign business deals or open a new business during Ghost Month. They believe there’s a huge chance for bankruptcy or failed business during this period.
Transferring to a new office is also heavily discouraged.
They’re also not allowed to construct new buildings nor renovate their house.
“However, if it (construction/renovation) was already started before the Ghost Month, I think it’s fine to continue it,” he said.
Does every Chinese believe in Ghost Month? No.
I was able to talk to a Chinese businessman recently and he was totally clueless about Ghost Month. He even asked me if it’s an event. I also asked a Filipino-Chinese doctor his thoughts, but his wife told me he doesn’t believe in Ghost Month, and added that he’s more “Pinoy” now.
Do the practices/beliefs vary if one is not pure Chinese? Gan thinks there’s no difference since Chinese culture has created a great impact on them even during the early times. He also cited that there are many Filipinos adopting traditional Chinese practices.
Gan’s mom is pure Chinese while his father is half Chinese. He considers his parents, grandparents and other relatives of having a huge influence on his beliefs.
Should everyone believe in Ghost Month, or is it exclusive only to the Chinese community?
It’s really up to the person, Gan said, emphasizing that there’s nothing to lose and it’s not harmful if one would follow the basic Dos and Don’ts during Ghost Month.
In China, the Hungry Ghost Festival is one of several celebrated traditions where the ghosts of their ancestors including mischievous and unhappy ones are believed to wander starting on the first day of the 7th lunar month, wandering around for days looking for some entertainment or mischief and getting hungry on the last day of the Ghost Month. (PNA)