Wednesday, April 19, 2006
The awakening
In traditional Taoism style, people burn paper money and throw coins around while paying respect to the dead during the Qing Ming festival (a time when Chinese people remember their deceased relatives). These people believe the spirits of the deceased need travelling expenses and tolls for their long journey back to earth. These practices were common and accepted in the past both by the community and by the authorities. However the burning of paper money creates air pollution and is being increasing viewed as unacceptable. In certain countries, the practice may be against the laws enacted to protect the environment. The throwing of coins everywhere is also a safety hazard increasing the risk of an accident like slip. It makes one wonder how these practices can help the dead.
It is heartening to read in the news that many funeral homes in China has erected signs asking people not to throw coins while paying respect to the dead. While tradition dies hard, a combination of education and law enforcement might be the key to modernisation of cultural practices leading to a more sustainable environment.
It is heartening to read in the news that many funeral homes in China has erected signs asking people not to throw coins while paying respect to the dead. While tradition dies hard, a combination of education and law enforcement might be the key to modernisation of cultural practices leading to a more sustainable environment.
