Phong tục truyền thống trong tháng 7 âm lịch ở Việt Nam

The month of July in the lunar calendar holds a special significance in the cultural and traditional practices of Vietnam. This period is marked by a series of rituals and customs that reflect the rich heritage and deep-rooted beliefs of the Vietnamese people. These traditions, passed down through generations, not only honor the spirits of the ancestors but also serve as a reminder of the country's historical past.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Significance of the Seventh Lunar Month</h2>

The seventh lunar month, also known as the Ghost Month, is considered one of the most sacred periods in Vietnam. This month is dedicated to the veneration of ancestors and spirits, a practice deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture. The belief is that during this month, the gates of the underworld are opened, allowing spirits to visit the earthly realm. The Vietnamese people, therefore, engage in various rituals and customs to honor these spirits and ensure their peaceful return to the underworld.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Custom of Vu Lan Festival</h2>

One of the most significant customs during the seventh lunar month is the Vu Lan Festival, also known as the Ghost Festival. This festival is a time for Vietnamese people to express their filial piety and gratitude towards their parents and ancestors. The rituals involve offering food, clothes, and other necessities to the wandering spirits. People also wear roses: a red rose if their parents are alive, and a white one if they have passed away. This festival is a poignant reminder of the importance of family ties and respect for elders in Vietnamese culture.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Practice of Releasing Lanterns</h2>

Another popular tradition during this month is the practice of releasing lanterns into the river. This act is believed to guide the lost souls back to the underworld. The sight of hundreds of lanterns floating on the water, illuminating the night, is truly a spectacle to behold. This tradition not only adds to the mystical charm of the month but also symbolizes the Vietnamese people's respect for the spiritual world.

<h2 style="font-weight: bold; margin: 12px 0;">The Ritual of Making Offerings</h2>

Making offerings is a crucial part of the customs during the seventh lunar month. Vietnamese people prepare elaborate feasts and place them on the altar as offerings for the spirits. These offerings usually include fruits, sweets, and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Incense sticks are also lit as a part of the ritual. This practice is a testament to the Vietnamese belief in co-existence with the spiritual world.

As the seventh lunar month comes to an end, the Vietnamese people bid farewell to the spirits with a sense of reverence and gratitude. The customs and traditions observed during this month are a reflection of the country's cultural richness and spiritual depth. They serve as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting the Vietnamese people to their roots. These customs, steeped in symbolism and meaning, continue to be an integral part of Vietnamese culture, adding to its unique charm and allure.