Appeasing the spirits through prayers and offerings Life and Times, 2 Edition
IN the month of August, normally on the 15th, the Chinese traditionally celebrate what, in the past, was explained to non- Chinese as Sembahyang Hantu (lit. prayers offered to ghosts) which, however, must be distinguished from Cheng Beng, usually known as the Chinese "All Souls Day". These...
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| Published in | New Straits times |
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| Main Author | |
| Format | Newspaper Article |
| Language | English |
| Published |
Kuala Lumpur
The New Straits Times Press (M) Berhad
07.08.2000
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| Online Access | Get full text |
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| Summary: | IN the month of August, normally on the 15th, the Chinese traditionally celebrate what, in the past, was explained to non- Chinese as Sembahyang Hantu (lit. prayers offered to ghosts) which, however, must be distinguished from Cheng Beng, usually known as the Chinese "All Souls Day". These suffering souls appealed to the Emperor for release, and moved by what he saw, the Emperor obtained permission from the Ruler or Governor of the unknown region to release the unfortunate souls once a year during the 7th moon of the Chinese calender, from the first day to the last which is sometimes 29th and sometimes 30th. Upon awakening, the Emperor sent for his private secretary and directed him to record the dream and ordered that the 7th moon should always be celebrated on a grand scale by the offer of food and entertainment to the friendless, suffering souls who would be let loose in that month. |
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