Monday, August 07, 2006

New Straits Times - Malaysia News Online-RM68,000 for a piece of charcoal?

New Straits Times - Malaysia News Online: "It’s the time of the year where the big banquet is held during the Hungry Ghost Festival in the Hokkien belt in the country. If you have the cash you can bid for some ‘lucky’ items at the auction that follows.

JOHOR BARU: Would you pay RM68,000 for a piece of charcoal ('black gold' in Chinese), only to burn it to ashes later?

A businessman was willing to pay this sum in return for showers of divine blessings and the promise of prosperity throughout the year.

Some may dismiss this as foolish superstition. But for the adherents of the Po Doh (salvation) banquet, they are prepared to swear by it.

This is a traditional ritual during the Hungry Ghost Festival when the people are invited to bid for auspicious items at a grand auction, with proceeds going to charity."

No comments: