In Taiwan, there exists a unique folk custom called “sending rice dumplings”(送肉粽). This custom, primarily practiced in the coastal areas of Changhua County, is believed to assist in guiding the souls of those who have committed suicide to the afterlife.
The Euphemism and Its Significance
The term “rice dumplings” serves as a euphemism for suicide, drawing a parallel between the hanging position of a deceased individual and the shape of a rice dumpling. It is widely believed that the souls of those who commit suicide harbor intense anger and resentment, leaving behind lingering negative emotions in the vicinity of their demise. Sending rice dumplings is a ritualistic approach to aid these souls in their transition to the afterlife and prevent them from causing harm to others.
The Ceremony and Its Practices
The sending rice dumplings ceremony typically unfolds during the nighttime hours. A Taoist priest leads the procession, followed by individuals carrying the rope, ladder, and coffin used in the suicide. This procession adheres to a predetermined route, culminating at the beach or the mouth of a river. Along the way, the priest burns incense and scatters salt and rice to ward off evil spirits.
Taboos Associated with the Ceremony
A number of taboos are associated with the sending rice dumplings ceremony, including:
- Refrain from calling out names: This action could attract the attention of the spirits.
- Maintain position within the procession: Leaving the procession could render an individual vulnerable to the spirits.
- Avoid looking back: Turning back could lead to the spirits attaching themselves to the gazer.
- Resist the urge to take photographs: Capturing images of the spirits could entrap them.
A Reflection of Taiwanese Beliefs
The sending rice dumplings ceremony serves as a fascinating and unique custom, mirroring the Taiwanese people’s deep-rooted beliefs about death and the afterlife. While some may perceive this practice as strange or even unsettling, it undoubtedly holds significant value within Taiwanese culture.
Additional Details of the Ceremony
- Commencement: The Taoist priest initiates the ceremony by performing a cleansing ritual to purify the area of any negative energy.
- Invoking Divine Assistance: The priest seeks the aid of deities in guiding the soul of the deceased.
- Adherence to the Predetermined Route: The procession diligently follows the established path leading to the beach or the mouth of a river.
- Warding Off Evil Spirits: Incense is burned, and salt and rice are scattered along the route to safeguard against malevolent spirits.
- Final Passage: Upon reaching the beach or the mouth of a river, the priest burns the rope, ladder, and coffin, symbolizing the soul’s journey to the afterlife.
Avoiding Encounters with the Ceremony
Residents residing along the sending rice dumplings route often make conscious efforts to avoid encountering the ceremony on the road. Consequently, organizers typically announce the route in advance, enabling residents to steer clear of the procession.
This common practice stems from the widespread belief that the spirits of the deceased could pose harm to those who cross their path.
The sending rice dumplings ceremony stands as a testament to the profound impact of Taiwanese beliefs on their cultural practices. While the custom may appear unconventional or even frightening to some, it remains an integral and deeply respected aspect of Taiwanese heritage.