Practices around
the World
In general, most Asian countries
celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival
by burning Hell bank notes and other
forms of joss paper, which apparently
can be used by the ghosts as a form of
currency in the afterlife. Occasionally,
there are people who also burn
specially-made paper houses, vehicles
and servants to please the ghosts.
Families also offer prayers and food
and drink to the deceased relatives.
There are some slight variations
though.
Singapore & Malaysia
Getai concerts are held around the
country, featuring performances
by a group of singers, dancers and
entertainers on a temporary stage
specially erected for this purpose.
The front rows of the seating
arena are usually left empty for
the hungry ghosts.
Taiwan
The gates of a temple are opened
on the first day of the seventh
lunar month to signify the gates of
hell being cracked open.
On the 12th day, lamps at the main
altar are lit and on the 13th day, a
procession of lanterns are held.
During this month, many Taiwanese
avoid going for surgery, buying
cars, swimming, and going out after
dark. They also take extra care to
not reveal addresses to ghosts.
Japan
On the 15th day of the seventh
lunar month, people will give
gifts to their superiors and
acquaintances.
The Japanese version of the Ghost
Festival is called O-bon and has
been transformed over time into
a family reunion holiday. People
from the big cities return to their
home towns and clean the graves
of their ancestors.
Vietnam
The festival is usually seen as a time
to pardon the condemned souls
who have been released from Hell.
These homeless souls should be fed
and appeased with food offerings.
In fact, the month of the festival is
known as the Month of Lonely Spirits
and is believed to be haunted and
particularly unlucky.
The festival also coincides with Vu
Lan, or Mother’s Day. People whose
mothers are still alive would bear
a red rose and give thanks while
those without can choose to bear
a white rose and attend services
to pray for the deceased.
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Aug 2014 • Family & Life
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