Many people think Ghost Month is merely superstition, but in reality, this is a sacred period deeply rooted in traditional cultural values. Understanding the 7 Ghost Month gift taboos not only shows respect for folk beliefs but also helps you choose truly meaningful gifts that bring peace and harmony.

Instead of worrying about what's forbidden, discover how to navigate Ghost Month gift-giving skillfully to honor traditions while expressing sincere intentions. This CHUS guide will answer all your questions about respectful gift-giving during Vietnam's most spiritually significant month.

Gift-Giving During Ghost Month: A Cultural Journey

1. Understanding Vietnamese Ghost Month Beliefs

In Vietnamese culture, the seventh lunar month is known as Ghost Month (tháng cô hồn) - a time when wandering spirits without descendants are believed to return to earth seeking food and attention. This belief combines Buddhist, Taoist, and indigenous folk traditions.

According to Most Venerable Thích Nhật Từ (PhD in Philosophy), "honoring wandering spirits belongs to folk beliefs, partially based on Buddhism," and isn't entirely religious in nature.

2. Why Ghost Month Gift Taboos Matter

Ghost Month gift taboos aren't superstitions but stem from the desire to maintain spiritual balance and show reverence to ancestors and spirits. These taboos must be strictly observed to avoid "disturbing negative energy" or causing harm to wandering souls.

Wikipedia's entry on Ghost Festival clearly recognizes this as when "souls of the dead wander during the seventh lunar month." In this context, Ghost Month gift-giving requires avoiding items that carry "harmful energy" or conflict with the sacred spiritual atmosphere.

Ghost Month brings many considerations that everyone must carefully evaluate

>>> Read more: When is the Ghost Month in 2025? Complete calendar guide

 

7 Essential Ghost Month Gift Taboos

1. Never Gift Sharp Objects (Knives, Scissors, Metal Items)

This ranks among the most frequently mentioned Ghost Month gift taboos. According to "Never Gifting Knives or Scissors" from "Interpreting Folklore" (Alan Dundes, 1980), giving knives or scissors is considered "cutting social relationships" and viewed as bad luck.

Spiritually, sharp objects imply "breaking completeness" - something particularly risky during the seventh lunar month.

Sharp objects to avoid during Ghost Month:

  • Knives and scissors of all types
  • Pliers, nails, screws
  • Metal items with pointed tips
  • Pens with metal tips

Sharp objects are believed to bring negative energy

Sharp objects are believed to bring negative energy

>>> Read more: Is Gifting Knives a Bad Omen? When and How to Gift Them Right

2. Avoid Gifts with Strong Odors or Those That Spoil Easily

If you're considering gifts like dried meat or pungent fermented foods, think twice. First, if these are ceremonial offerings, they create unpleasant smells when left on altars for extended periods. Additionally, creating foul odors is considered inappropriate during Ghost Month, potentially disturbing spirits and creating an impure atmosphere - one of the key things to avoid during this sacred time.

Dried fish may be delicious, but it's not suitable for Ghost Month

Dried fish may be delicious, but it's not suitable for Ghost Month

In Vietnamese folk belief, mirrors represent the "yin-yang space" and easily attract strange spirits. Wikipedia's "Ghosts in Vietnamese culture" explains that mirrors can be "open doors" for demons, especially dangerous during Ghost Month when spiritual activity peaks. Therefore, mirrors belong to the Ghost Month gift taboos that must be avoided.

Mirrors are believed to guide spirits into homes

Mirrors are believed to guide spirits into homes

4. Don't Give Gifts in the Evening or Late at Night

During Ghost Month, avoid giving gifts after 6 PM because "spirits are more active" in the evening. Gift-giving at this time might be misunderstood as "secretly calling souls" or inviting attention from wandering spirits - an important Ghost Month gift taboo.

According to Mrs. Phàm (72, Đồng Tháp, Vietnam): "Since childhood, I was taught about spirits appearing during spiritual hours. Adults didn't let children go outside and make noise during these times. Especially after 6 PM, I wasn't allowed to play outside anymore. I taught my children and grandchildren the same way."

5. Avoid Even Numbers, Especially the Number 4

Some Vietnamese avoid giving Ghost Month gifts in even quantities, believing even numbers signify "unstable fortune." According to TripSavvy's "Gift-giving etiquette in Asia," the number 4 is particularly considered a "death number" to avoid completely - representing one of the spiritually significant Ghost Month gift taboos.

6. Never Gift Used or Second-hand Items

Giving old gifts may carry "negative energy" from previous owners. Among Ghost Month gift taboos, people especially believe old items might harbor wandering spirits. New, clean, and pristine gifts remain the safest choice for Ghost Month gift-giving.

Previously used products become sensitive during Ghost Month

Previously used products become sensitive during Ghost Month

White flowers, black cards, white fabric, black candles... all belong to funeral-related items that should absolutely be avoided as Ghost Month gifts. Ghost Month gift taboos particularly emphasize avoiding items that evoke associations with death.

White flowers may cause misunderstandings during Ghost Month

White flowers may cause misunderstandings during Ghost Month

What to Gift During Ghost Month: Thoughtful Alternatives

1. Appropriate Timing for Ghost Month Gifts

  • Give gifts during daytime (8 AM - 5 PM)
  • Choose auspicious days within Ghost Month

Instead of focusing on Ghost Month gift taboos, choose gifts that carry positive energy:

Encouraged Ghost Month gifts:

Agarwood bracelets make meaningful feng shui gifts

Agarwood bracelets make meaningful feng shui gifts 

>>> Read more: How to Choose Gifts According to Feng Shui by Destiny Element?

3. Appropriate Wishes

When giving Ghost Month gifts, include beautiful wishes like:

  • "Wishing peace and good fortune"
  • "May your family always be happy"
  • "Wishing health and prosperity"

Important: Never mention Ghost Month in your wishes.

Note: These are traditional folk beliefs without complete scientific basis. However, considering these guidelines helps avoid creating awkward situations, especially when recipients believe in Ghost Month gift taboos.

Conclusion

Understanding and respecting Ghost Month gift taboos demonstrates cultural awareness and helps choose truly meaningful, appropriate gifts. For travelers and expats in Vietnam, observing these customs shows respect for local culture and creates meaningful connections with Vietnamese people. Whether you personally believe in these traditions, acknowledging them demonstrates cultural sensitivity and enhances your Vietnam experience.

If you're seeking appropriate feng shui gifts, visit CHUS's meaningful gift collection to find refined, positive products for your loved ones. Our handcrafted Vietnamese artisan pieces respect cultural traditions while celebrating the art of thoughtful giving.

FAQs

  • Is it appropriate to give gifts during the Ghost Month (Tháng cô hồn)?
  • What gifts should not be given during Ghost Month?
  • What are good gifts to give during Ghost Month?
  • How long has Ghost Month existed in Vietnamese culture?
  • Is Ghost Month real?