ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Chinese ghosts

Hello there!

Do you like to hear spooky stories about ghosts? Well, today I am going to tell you about Chinese ghosts.

In Chinese culture, ghosts are known as "gui" and are believed to be the spirits of people who have died. There are many different types of Chinese ghosts, each with their own characteristics and stories.

One of the most famous types of Chinese ghosts is the "jiangshi." This type of ghost is believed to be the reanimated body of someone who has died but has not yet been properly buried or has not found peace in the afterlife. The jiangshi is said to hop around, as it cannot walk, and has long arms that it uses to grab its victims. It is also said to be vulnerable to certain things, like talismans or sticky rice.

Another famous Chinese ghost is the "hungry ghost." These ghosts are believed to be the souls of people who were greedy and selfish in life. They are said to have big bellies and small mouths, which represent their insatiable hunger. Hungry ghosts are believed to roam the earth searching for food and are often represented in Chinese art and literature.

The "vengeful ghost" is another type of Chinese ghost. These ghosts are believed to be the spirits of people who died wrongfully or were not given a proper burial. They are said to seek revenge on those who wronged them in life and can be very dangerous.

In Chinese culture, it is important to pay respect to and honor the dead. This is done through various rituals and offerings, such as burning incense or paper money. It is believed that if you do not honor the dead, their spirits may come back to haunt you.

So, there you have it, a brief introduction to Chinese ghosts. Remember, they may be spooky, but they are also an important part of Chinese culture and beliefs.