As if there aren’t enough taboos during the Hungry Ghost Festival, here are some more things you may want to take note of during this supposedly spooky month. Of course, one of the most important things that even non-believers will follow is this: avoid major life events during this month. These include moving to a new house, starting a new business or getting into a relationship, because it’s believed that the presence of wandering spirits can bring bad luck or negative energy to these important milestones.
Here are some more superstitions that you can try to follow, if you want to be on the super safe side:
Be very careful when driving or crossing the roads during this month to avoid accidents
If you have read our previous article about dangerous roads, you would know that there are certain stretches in Singapore that are really accident prone. In addition to that, there are also reports that state that during the seventh month, there are significantly more accidents, so depending on whether you would like to be safe or sorry: do take heed!
Avoid taking photographs in the evenings or at night
Selfie lovers, you might want to stick to just taking photos in the day, unless you want extra “company” with you in your selfies that is. While it may give you some extra views on your IG, having the extra company caught on film may bring along bad luck or trouble in future, so do refrain from doing so!
Wearing black or red is inauspicious
Most of us probably have more black-coloured clothes than red, but nonetheless, both are considered to be inauspicious during the seventh month. Similar to how people wear sombre colours during funerals, the wearing of black and/or red during the Hungry Ghost Festival month is thought to attract spirits or signify bad luck. It’s best to stick to neutral colours to avoid attracting any unwanted attention from the supernatural.
Avoid spitting and blowing your nose in the street or at any tree/plant
The reason behind this is a bit vague, but it may not just be about the netherworld beings being annoyed by it, but rather a certain group of people who may catch you for hygiene reasons! But you’re definitely sensible enough to not spit or blow your nose loudly in public, right?
Drying your wet clothes at night is not a great idea
Actually, the thought of it makes it common sense – with no sun, how do you expect your clothes to dry?! Yet with many of us studying or working in the day, the only time we can get to washing our dirty laundry is during the night and drying them then. However, if you do so, spirits may actually try on your clothes and if you wear them afterwards, misfortunes will try to follow you. It’s kinda like wearing some stranger’s clothes…
Don’t stand too close to walls
In Chinese folklore, walls are believed to emit a cold yin energy, making them irresistible for ghosts who seem to like hugging them. It’s also wise to steer clear of narrow alleyways, even if they seem atmospheric and cool.
If you think these taboos for Hungry Ghost Festival are too much, wait till you see the other ones.
