Millah: Journal of Religious Studies
Vol. 24, No. 1, February 2025

Saving the Chinese Ghosts Overseas: A Study of the Yogacara Ulkā-Mukha Ritual in Thailand

Liu, Yaoping (Unknown)
Du, Wenchen (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2025

Abstract

Currently, the most common methods for preserving supernatural beings from foreign lands involve conducting religious ceremonies and beseeching spiritual creatures in close proximity. This inquiry aims to explore the spiritual significance and function of the Yogacara Ulkā-Mukha ritual practices in the redemption of Chinese spirits that are residing abroad. The research design employed a phenomenological approach, involving nine monks in Thailand as participants. The data-gathering process involved conducting in-depth interviews and engaging in participant observations. Subsequently, the data were subjected to thematic analysis to ascertain the significance and function of the difficulties in the execution of the ritual. The study yielded three significant findings: first, the Yogacara Ulkā-mukha ritual embodies the concept of Buddhist compassion and the duty to rescue wandering souls in their quest for tranquility; second, it explores the adaptation and challenges faced in preserving tradition and cultural heritage within the modern context; and third, it examines the potency of intention and prayer in transcending the constraints of space and time. These findings are elaborated in the concluding section of this paper. Moreover, this study suggests the creation of a ritual adaptation model that considers the use of technology to enhance the participation of overseas Chinese communities in preserving spiritual customs.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

Millah

Publisher

Subject

Religion

Description

Millah: Journal of Religious Studies (E-ISSN: 2527-922X) is an international double-blind peer-review journal focusing on original research articles related to religious studies. The journal welcomes contributions on the following topics: Religious studies Islamic studies Christian studies Hindu ...