Why are water lanterns released during the Ghost Festival?
The Ghost Festival, also known as the Ghost Festival or the Bon Festival, is one of the traditional Chinese festivals, held every year on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month. On this day, people will pay homage to their ancestors and the spirits of the dead in various ways, among which "letting water lanterns" is an important custom. So, why are water lanterns released during the Hungry Ghost Festival? This article will analyze it for you from three aspects: historical origin, cultural symbolism and modern significance.
1. Historical origins
The custom of releasing krathongs can be traced back to ancient Buddhist and Taoist traditions. According to records, the purpose of releasing water lanterns was originally to save the souls of the dead and help them find light and direction in the underworld. Buddhism believes that the Ghost Festival is a day when local officials forgive sins. Water lanterns can light the way to the paradise for the souls of the dead. Taoism emphasizes "saving all sentient beings", and water lanterns symbolize compassion and salvation for the dead.
| dynasty | Records of releasing water lamps |
|---|---|
| Tang Dynasty | The Ullambana Sutra records the ritual of releasing lanterns to liberate the souls of the dead. |
| Song Dynasty | Water lanterns are popular among the people and have become an important activity during the Ghost Festival. |
| Ming and Qing Dynasties | The custom of releasing water lanterns has become more popular and integrated with local culture. |
2. Cultural symbols
Releasing water lanterns is not only a religious ceremony, but also carries rich cultural connotations. Krathongs are usually made of paper or lotus flowers and are lit and placed in rivers or lakes to drift with the current. This behavior symbolizes:
1.light and hope: The light of the krathong represents guiding the dead souls in the direction, implying that they can find their destination in the darkness.
2.Gratitude and remembrance: By releasing water lanterns, we express our memory and gratitude to our ancestors.
3.Purification and blessing: The process of floating water lanterns symbolizes washing away sins and praying for peace and auspiciousness.
| Krathong type | Symbolic meaning |
|---|---|
| lotus lantern | Symbolizes purity and detachment. |
| paper boat lantern | It represents carrying the dead souls through the sea of suffering. |
| animal shaped lamp | It means to ward off evil spirits and avoid disasters. |
3. Modern significance
With the development of the times, the custom of releasing krathong has been given new meaning in modern society. In addition to traditional religious functions, water lanterns have also become a carrier of cultural activities and social welfare.
1.cultural heritage: Many places will protect and promote water lanterns as intangible cultural heritage.
2.environmental awareness: Modern water lamps mostly use degradable materials to reduce environmental pollution.
3.community activities: The water lantern releasing activity promotes community unity and enhances people's sense of identity with traditional culture.
| area | Modern water lantern activity |
|---|---|
| Taiwan | Hold a large-scale Loy Krathong Festival to attract tourists. |
| Fujian | Integrate with the tourism industry to promote water lantern culture. |
| thailand | Loy Krathong has become an internationally renowned festival. |
Conclusion
Releasing water lanterns during the Ghost Festival is an ancient and meaningful custom. It not only reflects people's care for the souls of the dead, but also carries rich cultural connotations. In modern society, this traditional custom continues to gain new vitality through innovation and integration. Whether it is to commemorate ancestors or to pray for blessings and peace, releasing water lanterns is a unique and beautiful way of expression.
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