Bestandsweeën, also known as ‘ghost marriages,’ have been a longstanding cultural practice in parts of East Asia, particularly in China, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This ancient tradition involves marrying off a deceased person to a living spouse in order to ensure that the soul of the deceased is not left alone in the afterlife. While the practice may seem unusual to those unfamiliar with it, it holds great significance in the belief systems of these cultures.
In Chinese culture, it is believed that a person’s spirit continues to exist in the afterlife, and that by marrying them off in the physical world, their spirit will have a companion in the spiritual realm. This is seen as a way to honor and respect the deceased, ensuring that they are not lonely in the afterlife. The living spouse is often chosen from within the family or community, and the marriage ceremony typically involves exchanging vows and making offerings to the deceased.
In Taiwan, the practice of ghost marriages is also prevalent among certain indigenous tribes, such as the Hakka and Atayal people. For these tribes, ghost marriages are seen as a way to maintain familial and ancestral connections, as well as to provide companionship for the deceased in the afterlife. The ceremony often involves elaborate rituals and offerings, and may include the participation of a shaman or spiritual leader.
In Vietnam, ghost marriages are known as ‘hôn nhân ma,’ and are primarily practiced in rural communities. Similar to Chinese and Taiwanese traditions, ghost marriages in Vietnam are believed to help bring peace and comfort to the soul of the deceased, as well as to ensure that their spirit is not wandering alone in the afterlife. The ceremonies typically involve the family of the deceased arranging the marriage and conducting rituals to honor the deceased and bring blessings to the newlywed couple.
While the practice of ghost marriages may seem strange or even morbid to some, it is important to understand that it is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual beliefs of these communities. For those who practice it, ghost marriages are a way to show respect for the deceased and to ensure that their spirit is taken care of in the afterlife. As with any cultural tradition, it is important to approach it with an open mind and a respect for the beliefs and customs of others.