Myths about the Chinese 7th Lunar Month or Hungry Ghosts Month explained

[Cecil Lee]

Myths about the Chinese 7th month

The Chinese 7th month traditions are deeply cultural and mostly symbolic. They should not be a source of fear or unnecessary restriction in daily life. Embracing these customs with understanding and kindness can give more meaning than worry.
 

Q1. Should you avoid staying out late during the 7th month?

No need to worry! In modern cities like Singapore, there's no evidence or special reason to avoid late-night activities during the 7th month. Most people are well-protected by their natural aura or yang qi, and the vast majority are not at increased risk during this period.

Unfortunately, a small minority of people lack the aura or yang qi needed to protect themselves at all times. Fortunately, most of us fall within the safe 98 percent and are not part of that 2 percent.

Here are the unfortunate 2 percent:

Q2. Is swimming dangerous during the 7th month?

There's no reason to refrain from swimming. Hungry ghosts are believed to exist in a different realm and generally do not interact with or target ordinary people. Most swimming accidents have natural explanations rather than being related to the supernatural.

Q3. Does leaving offerings to ghosts actually benefit them?

Offerings are seen more as symbolic acts, similar to how people put up festive decorations or flags. Spirits are not expected to physically consume or benefit from these offerings unless channeled through a medium. The act itself serves more as a cultural tradition than an actual transfer of goods.

Q4. Are there more wakes and funerals during the 7th month?

No, statistics show that there is no increase in mortality rates during the 7th month. The idea that more people die at this time is a myth. Life should be lived with kindness and mindfulness, regardless of the lunar calendar.

Q5. Do “hungry” spirits genuinely experience hunger?

The spirits or ghosts are thought to exist in another dimension, unable to access our world or physical offerings directly. The name "Hungry Ghost Month" relates more to folklore than actual supernatural hunger.

Q6. Is burning offerings like paper money or iPhones for the dead truly beneficial?

Burning paper offerings does not materialize those items in the afterlife. The practice is symbolic, reminding us that material possessions cannot be taken with us after death. If the ritual brings comfort to the living, it serves its emotional purpose, but many believe acts of kindness and good deeds are more meaningful ways to honor ancestors.

For instance, even if one were to burn hell notes, ingots, paper cars, iPhones, or houses, they will not magically transform into money in the afterlife.

However, if this ritual brings happiness or relief to the person performing it, then it has fulfilled its purpose.

Many Buddhists and Taoists suggest that performing acts of kindness and doing good deeds is a more meaningful alternative to burning such offerings.

Priests, nuns, and monks often view the burning of these offerings as a symbolic gesture representing the concept of "ashes to ashes."

They believe that this act serves as a reminder that material wealth cannot be taken to the afterlife. Burning paper ingots will not result in real ingots being delivered to the deceased. It is simply not feasible for charred paper to transform into gold bars.

[Cecil Lee]

Do you believe in the existence of ghosts? If Yes/No?

Like humans, ghosts also comes in all shapes and sizes:-

The Good Ghost

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The SHADOW Ghost  or EVIL One

The bad one. The bad one does not only come out during the Chinese 7th Lunar month. The bad one or often called the SHADOW one comes and goes 24/7. But they prefer to haunt a location... rarely encounter these unless one goes to a place haunted by them.

I caught a ghost in a photo!

The “Shadow Ghost” or “Evil One”** sometimes referred to as *阴灵* (yin ling) or *恶灵* (e ling) in various traditions is **not seasonally bound** to the Chinese 7th Lunar month (Hungry Ghost Month). These entities are quite different from the so-called “ordinary spirits” believed to roam during that period.

Key Points:

1. Continuous Presence
The Shadow Ghost or Evil One is thought to exist year-round, not just during culturally significant months. Their behavior is not regulated by the lunar calendar; instead, they linger in locations with certain energies or histories.

2. Preferred Haunts
These entities are *location-based* rather than calendar-based. They are commonly associated with:
   - Places with a history of tragedy or strong negative events
   - Abandoned or derelict buildings
   - Areas with stagnant, yin-heavy energy or poor Feng Shui
   - Locations rarely frequented or already believed to be “haunted”

3. Rare Encounters
Fortunately, most people will never encounter such spirits unless they deliberately enter spaces with these negative associations or energies. For the average person going about daily life, contact is extremely unlikely.

4. Feng Shui Perspective
From a Feng Shui viewpoint:
   - Properly maintained, lived-in spaces with balanced energy (adequate yang energy, cleanliness, sunlight, movement, and life force) are generally not conducive to such entities lingering.
   - Good Feng Shui, symbolic protection (such as Bagua mirrors, lights, auspicious symbols), and a vibrant family presence further discourage these energies from taking root.
   - Stagnant, cluttered, damp, or perpetually dark areas are more vulnerable as stagnant qi can attract or retain yin energies.

5. Dealing with Concerns
If you suspect a location might harbor such negativity whether for yourself or as advice for others—focus on:
   - Space clearing rituals (burning sage, ringing bells, chanting)
   - Improving light and ventilation
   - Inviting positive activity (gatherings, music, laughter)
   - Placing protective Feng Shui cures, if appropriate  
   - Seeking professional help from a Feng Shui master or spiritual practitioner for persistent or severe cases

In summary:
While ordinary spirits are more a matter of cultural tradition during the 7th month, the “bad ones” the Shadow Ghost or Evil One—are a much rarer phenomenon, linked more to space and history than to temporal cycles. Maintaining positive, vibrant energy in your environment is the best deterrent.

[Hozijian84]

Hi

I getting my resale flat key next week and it is still within the 7th month. Can I goo and open door or I shall wait until 7th month over

[Cecil Lee]

1. It may not be practical to wait until after the 7th month to open the door.

2. The decision depends on the factors discussed earlier.

3. Therefore, I do not recommend suggesting an alternative approach.

4. However, if circumstances require moving in during the 7th month, or waiting is not possible, further discussion is unnecessary. In Singapore, camping with your belongings at places like East Coast, Punggol, Sembawang, or West Coast Park is not allowed, and violators will be fined by the authorities.

5. Since you did not respond to the question in Paragraph 4 regarding the urgency of moving in as soon as possible, I assume you are open to postponing until after the 7th month, correct?

6. Additionally, when you receive your keys, there will be less than three weeks left in the 7th month, so it is wise to be cautious.

Other considerations:

7. Has the property been unoccupied for a long period, or has it only recently become vacant?

7.1. If the property has been empty for an extended time, this may be a valid reason to delay moving in during the seventh month.

7.2. On the other hand, if the previous owner or tenants have just vacated, it might provide a better experience.

8. Lower floors are often preferred over high floors, such as those with 30 storeys, because they require less effort to access. There are also more concerns about units on the 8th floor or below, especially ground or second-storey units.

 

In Conclusion

In conclusion, it is not advisable to delay opening the door until after the 7th month, and the decision depends on the previously mentioned factors. If circumstances necessitate an earlier move-in date or eliminate the option of waiting, further discussion becomes irrelevant. Camping with belongings at specified parks in Singapore is not allowed, and violators will face fines. It is prudent to proceed cautiously when receiving keys with less than three weeks left in the 7th month. The property's occupancy status and floor level are also important considerations in making the decision.

[Hozijian84]

Hi

I do not need to move in so soon. So it is better to wait till after 7 th mth then open door.

The unit is vacant for 1.5mth... if I open the door after 7 mth.. anything I  need to do or just follow the standard open door Ritual.

 

Thanks 

[Cecil Lee]

2 minutes ago, Hozijian84 said:

Hi

I do not need to move in so soon. So it is better to wait till after 7 th mth then open door.

The unit is vacant for 1.5mth... if I open the door after 7 mth.. anything I  need to do or just follow the standard open door Ritual.

 

Thanks 

Yes, you have just answered the question.

Pure common sense. If can wait or "tahan". Why not?

[Cecil Lee]

More:

 

[Cecil Lee]

More on the Chinese 7th Lunar Month

1. Singapore has only a few cemeteries left; avoid entering unless absolutely necessary. If you must visit, it’s best to go early in the morning.

2. Avoid whistling when walking alone on a deserted road at night. For safety, use earphones and pay attention to traffic sounds while heading home.

3. Do not urinate on trees or plants, as this is illegal and may result in legal consequences.

4. If you accidentally step on or kick roadside offerings, offer a polite apology.

5. Refrain from making jokes or disrespectful remarks about offerings. If the smell of burning incense is too strong, it’s best to leave the area.

6. At Chinese Opera performances, avoid rushing to sit in the first two rows.

7. If you notice a strong or unusual scent while walking, it’s better to walk away rather than follow it.

8. Do not pick up interesting objects found on the road as they may be valuable or purposely placed. Ignore them and continue on your way.

9. Avoid standing under large trees for shelter at night. Carry an umbrella for rain, but avoid using a red one. Ladies should also refrain from wearing all-red clothing and red high heels.

10. Avoid hanging solid rod wind chimes at home, as they are believed to attract negative energy.

11. If you sense a presence behind you, do not look back—keep moving and, if needed, run to a safe place.

12. Gamblers should not seek lottery numbers from trees.

13. In conclusion, respecting local customs and traditions in Singapore is essential to avoid legal issues and cultural misunderstandings. By following guidelines such as avoiding cemeteries unless necessary, staying cautious when out at night, and showing respect towards offerings and traditional practices, you help ensure a harmonious experience for yourself and those around you. Being mindful of these simple yet meaningful practices not only demonstrates cultural sensitivity but also contributes to a safer and more considerate community.

 

[Cecil Lee]

Exercise caution when choosing a location to hang a wind chime inside your home.

Hollow Rod wind chimes commonly sold in shops... 

[Cecil Lee]

Morning Master Cecil, a question on Reno timing cos I have not gotten my unit yet.
If my Reno starts b4 1st Aug 2019 (start of 7th month) n if e Reno period will be thru out e 7th mth.
Do we stop Reno n restart after or we can continue thru out e 7th mth?

Reply: No worries can continue during 7th month

[Cecil Lee]

Year is 2019:

Cecil, will open door on 17Aug and start renovation on 20Aug. Still in Chinese seven month. Ok or not?

[Cecil Lee]

Question: Hi Master Cecil, because my reno is going to continue to 7th month, anything I need to do to ensure smooth sailing?
Did the reno ritual per your manual on auspicious day already.

Comments: 

Make sure the house is not "tidy". To ensure that those things see your uncompleted house and decide to (instead) stay at your neighbour's unit.

This is the most practical solution, lah

Question: So throughout that month, must remain messy?

Comments: 

Common sense says.. try to. 

Just imagine... they are also like humans. If the house is extremely clean. And ready for occupation... as a human being... would you want to occupy this empty home?

Or a "messy" one. 

To play safe that's all. Don't you want to play safe? Or as in SGP = Kiasu? Ah?

 

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Summary:

To ensure smooth sailing for your renovation during the 7th month, it’s recommended to keep your house messy and uncompleted. The idea is that spirits may be less inclined to linger in a cluttered, unfinished space, which acts as a practical precaution. Since you’ve already performed the reno ritual on an auspicious day, continue keeping your house untidy throughout the month to play it safe. This approach is rooted in common sense it’s simply being kiasu (extra cautious), as a clean, move-in-ready home may be more attractive not only to people, but also to unwanted spirits.

[Cecil Lee]

Related: The Chinese tradition of Kong Teck (Gong De)

 

[Cecil Lee]

Master Lee good morning, what do you think if my new car come in Aug meaning lunar seventh month ok or not? Or postpone it?

[Cecil Lee]

Question: But next friday falls within lunar 7th month..is there anything we should so or look out for?

[hidden], specially for your first time open door this Friday: (Avoid the full First-time-open door procedure]

1. Go up to your unit.
2. Get ready to open, knock on the door three times
3. Open the door
4. Yell "PIng An Fa Cai, Huat Ah"
5. Throw in a pineapple
6. Place the pineapple at the centre of the living room
7. Bring in the fa gao (Huat Quay) and also place at the centrepoint
8. REMEMBER to bring both items home on Friday!
9. Pineapple can own time own target eat any time or place in the fridge for near future consumption.
10. Fa Gao.. usually eat a pinch of it.. or bought several days ago.... leave in the existing home. And throw away 4 days later.

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Please visit 30 Days Auspicious Date for ONE or TWO Person(s) - FengShui.Geomancy.Net

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Related: Non-Religious Chinese Customs For New Re-Sale Home

 

 

Hope the above helps.

[Cecil Lee]

Qn: Hi Cecil, is defect rectifications works considered part of renovation during 7 month festival..

Comments:

Okay to do rectifications during 7th month.

Imagine... "they" are like us. If the house is dusty and dirty and not live in condition.. they may or would just go next door. LOL

[Cecil Lee]

Start or 1st day of Chinese 7th month 2019

[Cecil Lee]

Question: What is the quantity of incense sticks needed to be lit? 

1. According to the concept of Yin and Yang, odd numbers such as 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 represent Yang energy, while even numbers like 2, 4, 6 represent Yin energy.

2. When lighting joss sticks, it is recommended for individuals to light up either 1 or 3 joss sticks at a time.

2.1. Alternatively, lighting two (2) wax candles for prayer is also a suitable option.

3. In religious settings, it is common to see worshippers lighting up 9 joss sticks. As previously mentioned, the number 9 is considered appropriate.

Upon closer inspection [See Below], the container holds three burning joss sticks.

4. Scenes from the seventh lunar month of 2019, commencing on August 1st, 2019...

[Cecil Lee]

The Catholic Church is accommodating

The Catholic Church has expressed their willingness to accommodate this... (burning joss sticks + igniting candles)...

Several clergy members have addressed this issue in various public platforms, debates, and even in CatholicNews publications. While some believe that holding joss sticks is a sign of honoring the deceased, others argue that joss sticks are similar to the candles lit by Catholics to remember the departed. In certain regions, joss sticks are utilized during Mass instead of candles.

However, numerous Christian denominations view this practice as a form of "devil worship" and caution their followers against partaking in it.

[Cecil Lee]

The Hungry Ghost Festival, also known as Zhongyuan Jie, will take place from Wednesday, August 19, 2020 to Wednesday, September 16, 2020 during the 7th month of the Chinese calendar in the year 2020.

[Cecil Lee]

Related: Is the Hospital considered a predominantly Yin environment? What measures can healthcare professionals such as doctors and nurses take to safeguard themselves in such Yin surroundings?

 

[Cecil Lee]

In 2020, Chinese 7th month is from Wednesday 19 August 2020 to Wednesday 16 September 2020.

[Cecil Lee]

Question: Hi master sorry is been quite a while. As my tenant is only able to move out on 16 Aug 2020 which I believe falls within the lunar 7th month? That's to say we cannot start the renovation?

Reply:

The idea of the 7th month is that if the house is empty ... some entity (or entities) may want to "live" there.

Thus if the house is immediately vacant in the 7th month, again the idea is that these wondering ghosts may just drop by during 7th month.

Thus, if they already "own" the house ... and if one were to start renovations.. when they are around... this is really bad.

Alternatively, if by chance the day the tenants move-out; and the next day you take over.. can start renovations...

Client: Okok but do I still to perform the customs of move in and renovation?
Client: If yes I have to follow an auspicious date provided by u?

Reply:

Frankly, first time take over is 1st time open door procedure. Should not...do so during 7th month.

Just do a symbolic start of renovations.. if the vacant home is just a day or two away from key collection.

Yes, nice to choose an auspicious date - but if it is too far off from the start of renovations, then skip it

More important is the move-in procedure..

The latest Handbook of Chinese Customs on 1st time open door, start of renovations and move-in can be found under this url: [url removed, here] 

[Cecil Lee]

Sunday Times on 22 August 2020 and online on 21 August 2020 night

[Cecil Lee]

The Sunday Times - Life

Sunday, August 23, 2020

While there are notions of the spirit world as macabre and foreboding, there is also a counterpoint found in Chinese culture that spirits are to be appeased. The annual Chinese tradition of the Hungry Ghosts Month has nothing to do with the fear factor.

Also referred to as the Seventh Lunar Month, which this year started last Wednesday (Aug 19) and which ends on Sept 16, it is a time when reverence for the departed is encouraged.

According to fengshui master Mr Cecil Lee of Geomancy.Net, it is also a time to debunk myths and superstitions surrounding the spirit world.

“The Chinese Ghost Month teaches two virtues - giving generously and expressing gratitude,” says Mr Lee who is in his 60s  who has been advising clients on geomancy matters since 1996.

"It is an occasion to offer food and incense papers to demonstrate generosity. In fact, these are the two main reasons that Buddhists consider the Seventh Lunar Month auspicious. It gives them an opportunity to offer prayers in honour of the dead.”

Mr Lee says that according to Chinese traditions, the primary purpose of the Ghost Month is not to scare devotees but to impart a sense of giving and honouring the dead.

“During this period, there is respect for the departed,” shares Mr Lee. “However, if one is anxious about leaving the home at night, it is advisable to be accompanied by a family member or friend.”