Taiwan prepares for the start of Ghost Month, a key period in Taiwanese culture. This year, the seventh lunar month, known as Ghost Month, begins later than usual. The “Gates of Hell” open officially at 11 p.m. on Friday. Many locals prepare to observe customs related to wandering spirits called “good brothers.”
Every three years, people add a leap month to the lunar calendar to align it with the solar year. This adjustment delays Ghost Month this year. As a result, some believe the “good brothers” will become more active or hungrier. However, numerologist Ko Bo-cheng explains that leap months happen regularly and follow the normal calendar cycle.
During Ghost Month, people follow specific taboos to avoid bad luck. First, businesses should not open during this time. Many believe starting a business in Ghost Month brings difficulties and failure. Second, shopkeepers usually place offerings called “Ya” outside their shops on the second and sixteenth days of each lunar month. Yet, during Ghost Month, they should pause this practice. Spirits may compete with gods for the food, which could cause bad luck.
Third, people who have practiced “Pu Du” worship must continue. Older businesses especially should maintain this tradition to avoid offending the good brothers. Fourth, people should avoid water activities such as swimming or playing near rivers and seas. Folklore warns that water ghosts become active, increasing drowning risks.
Additionally, people should not move into new homes or businesses during this period. Strong Yin energy may disturb the good brothers, causing trouble. Likewise, people avoid holding weddings, as they believe it may bring bad luck to the couple.
On the night the Gates of Hell open, families worship the Earth God first. They offer home-cooked meals, fruit, tea, or wine. Then, they set a simple outdoor table for the good brothers. They prepare hot food, odd numbers of fruit, biscuits, and candies. People light incense sticks and place a basin and towel so spirits can wash away dust.
This tradition started in China’s Fujian Province. Immigrants from southern Fujian brought it to Taiwan and built temples to shelter wandering spirits. Even though people can travel during Ghost Month, they stay cautious in unfamiliar or sparsely populated areas. People avoid large parties and loud celebrations, as these may attract unwanted spiritual attention.
In short, the “good brothers” influence many customs in Taiwan during Ghost Month. People observe taboos, perform rituals, and respect these spirits to ensure peace and avoid misfortune.
