Is the 7th Lunar Month the Ghosts' Season?
In India, the raining seasons lasts for three months yearly. It extend from the 15th day of the 4th lunar month to the 15th day of the 7th lunar month. Hence it is very inconvenient for the Sangha to seek alms during this season.
The Buddha decided that all monks must practice diligently these months while staying indoor.
After practicing for 3 months, many members of the sagely assembly attained The Way. Thus, the Buddhas in the ten directions rejoiced over their attainment.
In addition, on this day, the members of the sagely assembly came together to discuss their individual progress during these three months. all merits and demerits had to be declared openly to the assembly. Thus this day is also known as the "Sangha Pravana Day."
At the same time, Venerable Maudgalyayana's mother was suffering in the Realm of the Hungry Ghosts. She had committed heavy negative Karma due to stinginess and greed. She could not be saved by spiritual strength of her strength alone, neither could she be saved by all the earth spirits and heavenly gods.
She could only be saved by the combined strength of the sagely Sagha in the ten directions who had attained the Way.
Hence, Buddha instructed Venerable Maudgalyayana to make Ullambana offering to the sagely Sangha on the 15th day of the lunar month or "the Buddhas Happy Day". By doing so, the parents of the present and past lives would receive the blessings and their negative karma would be purified. Thus, this day is also know as "The Day of Filial Piety".
If the Buddha had taught Venerable Maudgalyayana to make the "Ullambana Offering" on the 15th Day of the 6th lunar month (or any other day), then isn't it true that the 6th lunar month would be regarded as the "Ghosts' Season?" Ghost are always around every day. Who say they only appear during the 7th month?
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