7th Month do’s and don’ts-12 Things You Shouldn’t Do During Prayers

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The 7th Month, also called the Hungry Ghost Festival, is a time when spirits are believed to roam among the living. Families offer prayers and food to honor ancestors and wandering spirits.

To avoid bad luck and show respect, here are 12 things you should NOT do during prayers.

Why the 7th Month Has Special Rules

The Hungry Ghost Festival dates back centuries, rooted in Buddhist and Taoist customs. It’s believed that during this month, spirits who have not found peace wander among the living. Prayers, food offerings, incense, and paper money are given to comfort them and prevent misfortune. Because the rituals involve the unseen world, certain behaviors are avoided to maintain harmony and show proper respect.

12 Things You Shouldn’t Do During 7th Month Prayers

1. Don’t Step Over Offerings

Stepping over food, incense, or joss paper offerings is considered highly disrespectful and may offend the spirits.

2. Avoid Pointing at the Prayer Table

Pointing directly at offerings or the altar is seen as impolite and may be interpreted as mocking.

3. Don’t Take Food from the Offerings

All items on the prayer table are meant for the spirits. Taking them before the ritual is completed is believed to bring bad luck.

4. Avoid Whistling at Night

It is said that whistling after dark may attract unwanted spirits to the prayer area.

5. Don’t Move Offerings Before Prayers End

Wait until the incense burns out and prayers are finished before clearing the table.

6. Avoid Sitting on the Prayer Table

The prayer table is sacred space. Sitting on it is considered deeply disrespectful.

7. Don’t Wear All Black or All White

These colors are linked to mourning and are not suitable for this festive yet solemn occasion.

8. Avoid Turning Your Back While Praying

Always face the altar or offerings when making prayers to show respect.

9. Don’t Play Around the Prayer Area

Running, laughing loudly, or playing near the altar can be seen as disrespectful and disruptive.

10. Avoid Speaking Negatively During Prayers

Words carry energy. Negative speech can affect the ritual’s atmosphere.

11. Don’t Put Out Incense Sticks Forcefully

Incense should be left to burn out naturally as part of the offering process.

12. Avoid Taking Photos of Offerings

Some believe capturing images of offerings may also capture spiritual energy.

Do’s for a Respectful 7th Month Prayer

• Light incense with sincerity and place it gently.

• Prepare food, fruits, and drinks thoughtfully for offerings.

• Maintain a calm, respectful, and quiet environment.

• Dispose of burnt offerings properly after the ritual.

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Conclusion

The 7th Month is a time to remember loved ones and show compassion to wandering spirits. By observing these do’s and don’ts during prayers, you not only uphold tradition but also maintain harmony between the living and the spiritual world. Respectful actions during this period are believed to invite blessings, peace, and protection for the year ahead.