Ghost Money: Sending Riches to the Afterlife
The concept of “ ghost money , ” also known as joss paper, might sound like something out of a fantasy novel. But for many cultures around the world, it’s a real and important part of religious and ancestral practices. Traditionally, it takes the form of brightly colored paper replicas of currency, ingots, and other valuables. People burn these during rituals in the belief that the smoke carries the offerings to the spirit world. Where ghost money is used? The practice of burning ghost money is most prevalent in East and Southeast Asia, particularly in Chinese folk religion, Vietnamese traditions, and certain forms of Buddhism. Some parts of Europe and Latin America are home to it as well. Why is ghost money burned? The reasons for burning this vary depending on the culture. Here are some common themes: Ancestral veneration: Many traditions involve offering this to deceased ancestors. People do this to ensure comfort and prosperity in the aft...