Ghosts

Ghosts

In the Chinese traditions often dealing with Confucianism or Daoism, the idea of a Ghost is an ancestor who has been neglected. The Confucius idea is that the older people in a person's life needs to be respected, so when there are ancestors who have been neglected then it is a huge problem that occurs within a society. Also, people who died mysteriously or because of suicide can also return as ghosts.

It is strongly advised that ghosts must be kept away, but they must also be kept happy.

There is a day called "Ghost day" in which families/citizens of a community would elaborate on the offerings to ancestors as well as hold performances and light lamps to help keep "ghosts" or ancestors happy.

Divination is also important, in which an oracle often comes in to play. The oracle is often there to help keep respect while a certain question is worked on.