5 Hungry Ghost No-No's That You Should Definitely Avoid

It is that time of the year again and the Chinese would probably get what this means. No, it is not a time where you would have to lock yourselves in your home from the hungry ghouls nor is it a time to curl up and cry. However, there is a few things to NOT do during this time of the year that would save you from any ghostly encounters and maintain the respect.

1. DO NOT and DO NOT once again tamper or disturb the offerings that are already laid out in their place

This is one of the most important steps as tampering or disturbing the offerings may agitate the spirits as they will see it as a sign of disrespect. This can cause you very bad luck for the rest of the year or having an unwelcome follower and guest in your home.

Picture: Amanda Lee Keng Yuen

2. Do not stay out too late during the hungry ghost month

If you are someone that is very familiar with the nightlife, this month wouldn’t be a good month for late night outings. It would be advised to be home before dark.

Picture: GIPHY

3. If you see a coin or something valuable on the floor do not pick it up

It is believed that a ghost might be playing a prank or you. Or for worst cases, if you come in physical contact with the item it will be some sort of a gateway for the ghost to possess you as it craves for a live human vessel.

4. Do not play music loudly especially when you’re walking at night

This can attract spirits to follow you. Aside from playing music out loud, refrain from whistling and singing out loud as well. It will be nice to have fans that appreciate your talent but won’t it be better if they were alive and visible to the naked eye?​

5. If you’re coming home from somewhere that has certain mystical or ghostly “history", do not go straight home

This actually applies whether or not it’s the Hungry Ghost Festival just that especially this time, it is more important. If you go straight back home there is a chance something may have followed you. So, it is advised to hang around somewhere first, preferably somewhere with a lot of people.