Astrology Expert Warns Four Zodiac Signs to Be Cautious During Hungry Ghost Month

Singapore, Singapore Aug 14, 2026 ALN: The Hungry Ghost Festival, a significant cultural event in various Asian countries, marks a time when the living pay homage to their deceased ancestors and spirits. This festival typically falls on the seventh month of the lunar calendar, with the exact dates varying each year. In 2023, the festival commenced on August 13, and many individuals engage in various customs to honor the spirits, including burning incense, offering food, and participating in rituals. The festival is steeped in tradition and reflects the deep-rooted beliefs about the afterlife and the relationship between the living and the dead.

During this month, many people adhere to specific cultural practices that are believed to protect them from potential spiritual disturbances. These practices often include refraining from going out after dark, avoiding certain locations, and being cautious about engaging in activities that could attract unwanted attention from wandering spirits. The idea is to maintain a respectful distance from the spiritual realm, which is thought to be more active during this time.

Amidst these traditional beliefs, astrology plays a role in how individuals approach the Hungry Ghost Month. A Taiwanese astrology and tarot expert, known as Master Xiao Meng, has identified four zodiac signs that may need to exercise extra caution during this period. According to his insights shared through social media, individuals born in the years of the rat, snake, monkey, and pig are believed to be more susceptible to negative energies during this time.

Master Xiao Meng explains that those born under the rat and snake signs are particularly vulnerable due to their association with stronger yin energy. Yin energy is often linked to darkness, coldness, and introspection, contrasting with yang energy, which represents brightness, warmth, and activity. The rat and snake, being nocturnal creatures, are thought to naturally resonate with these yin qualities, making them more prone to experiencing spiritual disturbances during the Hungry Ghost Month.

In his recommendations, Master Xiao Meng advises those born in these years to avoid locations that are commonly associated with heightened yin energy. For instance, he suggests steering clear of beaches, riversides, and mountainous areas, as these environments are believed to be conducive to spiritual activities. This advice reflects a broader cultural understanding that certain geographical features can influence the flow of energy and the presence of spirits.

Similarly, individuals born in the year of the monkey are urged to be cautious around dense forests and areas with large, shady trees. These environments are thought to harbor stronger yin energy, which could lead to discomfort or minor ailments for those born under this zodiac sign. The emphasis on avoiding specific natural settings highlights the interconnectedness of nature and spirituality in many Asian cultures, where the landscape is seen as alive with energy and spirit.

For those born in the year of the pig, the astrology expert suggests avoiding messy or chaotic environments during the Hungry Ghost Month. Cluttered spaces are traditionally believed to attract negative energy, which can lead to feelings of unease or discomfort. Master Xiao Meng recommends that individuals born under this sign maintain clean and orderly living spaces and avoid places like clubs, bars, and nightclubs, where the atmosphere may be perceived as chaotic and disorganized.

While Master Xiao Meng's perspective aligns with traditional beliefs, there are alternative viewpoints within the cultural discourse surrounding the Hungry Ghost Month. For instance, Lee Chee Tong, a 27-year-old known as the "Gen Z Taoist priest," has taken to social media platforms like TikTok to advocate for a more modern interpretation of the festival. Chee Tong encourages individuals to approach this month as they would any other, challenging the notion that the gates of hell open on the first day of the Hungry Ghost Month.

According to Chee Tong, there is no scriptural basis within Taoism or Buddhism that supports the idea of increased spiritual danger during this time. Instead, he emphasizes the role of the Earth Official, a Taoist deity associated with forgiving sins, whose sacred birthday falls on the 15th day of the Hungry Ghost Month. He explains that rituals performed during this period are intended to honor both the living and the deceased, with a focus on compassion and forgiveness.

Chee Tong elaborates on the purpose of these rituals, stating that they aim to provide salvation to spirits that may be trapped due to various sins. By conducting these rituals, Taoist priests facilitate the spirits' journey from hell to paradise, reflecting a core belief in the possibility of redemption and the interconnectedness of all beings.

From a Buddhist perspective, the seventh month is also significant due to the story of Mulian, a disciple of Buddha who is said to have possessed spiritual powers. According to tradition, Mulian rescued his mother from suffering after her rebirth by making offerings to the monastic community and dedicating the merit gained to her. This narrative has led to similar practices being upheld during the seventh month, where individuals make offerings and perform acts of merit to benefit their deceased loved ones.

The contrasting views presented by Master Xiao Meng and Lee Chee Tong illustrate the dynamic nature of cultural beliefs and practices surrounding the Hungry Ghost Month. While traditional customs emphasize caution and respect for the spiritual realm, modern interpretations encourage a more relaxed approach that focuses on compassion and understanding. This ongoing dialogue reflects the evolving nature of cultural practices as they adapt to contemporary societal values and beliefs.

As the Hungry Ghost Month unfolds, individuals may find themselves navigating a complex landscape of traditions, beliefs, and personal interpretations. Whether adhering to traditional customs or embracing a modern perspective, the festival serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring connection between the living and the dead, and the importance of honoring those who came before us.