What to pay attention to in July and a half
The half of the seventh lunar month, also known as the Ghost Festival or Ghost Festival, is one of the traditional Chinese festivals. On this day, there are many folk customs and taboos aimed at paying homage to ancestors and appeasing the spirits of the dead. The following is a compilation of hot topics and hot content about July Half in the past 10 days across the Internet to help everyone better understand this traditional festival.
1. The origin and significance of July and a half
The half of July originates from the Taoist Ghost Festival and the Buddhist Obon Festival. It is an important day for ancestor worship and salvation of the dead. Folks believe that ghosts from the underworld will return to the upper world on this day, so various rituals need to be done to appease them.
2. Customs in July and a half
| custom | Specific content |
|---|---|
| worship ancestors | Prepare sumptuous offerings, such as fruits, meals, paper money, etc., to worship your ancestors. |
| Put out river lanterns | Putting river lanterns by the river or lake means to save the souls of the dead and pray for peace. |
| Burn paper money | Paper money, paper clothes and other items are burned for use by the deceased in the afterlife. |
| Pudu Dharma Assembly | Temples or Taoist temples will hold Dharma meetings to liberate the ownerless souls. |
3. Taboos in July and a half
There are many taboos in July and a half. The following are common precautions:
| Taboo | Reason |
|---|---|
| Not going out at night | Legend has it that ghosts are active at night and are prone to collisions. |
| Don’t tap others on the shoulder | Folks believe that people have three fires. A tap on the shoulder will extinguish the flames and cause ghosts to possess them. |
| don't whistle | Whistling can easily attract the attention of ghosts. |
| Not swimming | Water ghost legends are prevalent and accidents are prone to occur. |
| Don’t pick up money on the street | It may be the ghost's money for traveling, and picking it up will bring bad luck. |
The modern significance of April and July and a half
With the development of the times, the customs of July Half are also constantly evolving. Modern people pay more attention to environmental protection and safety. For example, they use electronic candles instead of traditional paper burning to reduce fire hazards. In addition, the half of July is also a time for family reunions. Many people will take this opportunity to return to their hometowns to worship their ancestors and express their nostalgia for their ancestors.
5. Health and Safety Tips for July and Half
During the half of July, in addition to following traditional customs and taboos, you also need to pay attention to the following health and safety matters:
| matters | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| fire safety | When burning paper money, choose an open area, stay away from flammable objects, and prepare fire-extinguishing tools. |
| Food hygiene | Sacrifice must be properly preserved to avoid eating spoiled food. |
| mental health | Avoid excessive superstition and maintain a peaceful mind. |
| traffic safety | Pay attention to safety when traveling at night and avoid drinking and driving. |
Cultural inheritance in June and July and a half
As an important part of traditional Chinese culture, July Half carries people's respect for ancestors and thinking about life. In modern society, we should treat these customs and taboos rationally, respect tradition, and advance with the times, so that this festival can rejuvenate.
In short, July and Half is a festival full of mystery. Understanding its customs and taboos can help us better participate in it and feel the charm of traditional culture. I hope that everyone can express their nostalgia for their ancestors on this special day and spend it safely and healthily.
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