Of kiddie curfews

Posted by noelbynature under Lifestyle, Traditions
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Something strange in your neighbourhood? Think you might need to call the Ghostbusters? If you’re getting a funny feeling that things are going ‘bump’ in the night - don’t worry, it’s probably some wandering spirit out for a frolic during the 7th month. During the Chinese 7th month festival, it is believed that the spirits of the dead are free to roam the earth and visit the living, who in turn take the opportunity to make offerings of food, gifts and entertainment to tide them until the next year.

Far from a macabre festival, the 7th month festival (also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival) is a great time to check out the best in the local - and traditional - entertainment scene. Still, you might be cautioned not to stay out too late at night, as yg remembers from his childhood days:

however, there were the restrictions that came into force during the seventh month. as children, we quite wary of the unseen that were supposed to be roaming all around us. they were kindly referred to as ‘good brothers’. we were not allowed to go swimming; not just at the public swimming pools but there was also to be no swimming in the sea, canal or pond. we were warned that the water ghost (chwee kui) would drag us into the deep.

we also had to be home early - before it got too dark - because our mothers did want us to be nabbed by some wandering spirits. generally, there was some sort of curfew during this not so auspicious month. however, we could watch wayang or getai right up to the end of the performance.

You can find out more about how the 7th Month Festival in yg’s post here. Amidst the gaiety of the 7th Month Festival, let us also not forget our Muslim friends who are observing the fasting month at this period too!

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