ABSTRACT
Individual sacrifices to the Hungry Ghosts are made on the eve of the full moon in the seventh month. Outside every shop on the Main Street a small bank of sand acts as an incense burner and as soon as dusk falls the women of the house emerge and light about a dozen sticks. A few short prayers are said before this improvised altar, and then a bundle of paper clothing and ingots, representing gold and silver, is burned for the comfort of the neglected spirits. The more opulent families add to the sacrifices a tray illuminated by two candles, on which are set out cups of tea, three pairs of chopsticks and some small bowls containing a vegetarian diet and local wine.
