Ting Ka Jad Tradition

The Ting Ka Jad (Throwing of Bamboo Baskets) tradition is held during the full moon of the 7th lunar month in the Chinese calendar, corresponding to late August or early September in the Thai calendar. Rooted in Buddhist Mahayana practices, this tradition exemplifies compassion and merit-making, where participants dedicate offerings to the spirits of the deceased. It fosters unity and mutual care within the community while maintaining its deep cultural significance.

 

According to Buddhist scriptures, Venerable Ananda was once meditating at Nikrotharam Monastery in Kapilavastu when a spirit in the form of a ghost appeared. The ghost was emaciated, with a skeletal frame and a neck as narrow as the eye of a needle. Consumed by hunger, it emitted flames from its mouth. The ghost warned Venerable Ananda that the Buddha would pass away in three days unless offerings were made to relieve the suffering of all spirits.

 

Concerned, Ananda sought the Buddha's guidance, who recommended acts of compassion and making offerings as a way to extend life and bring blessings. This marked the inception of the tradition to honor and assist spirits through merit-making.

 

Rituals and Practices The Ting Ka Jad tradition takes place three days after the Chinese Ghost Festival (Sart Chin), on the full moon of the 7th lunar month. The event begins with inviting the City Pillar Guardian Spirit to preside over the ceremonies. A temporary shrine, known as the Gong Tek pavilion, is set up in front of the Tong Hua Huai Kuang Association and the Tung Eaw Siang Tung Foundation on Pan Kham Road.

 

Within the pavilion, the City Pillar Spirit is believed to temporarily reside. Adjacent to this, a tall structure (4-5 meters high) is built to hold bamboo baskets filled with donated items, such as food and daily necessities contributed by the local community. On the third day, these baskets are symbolically thrown down, and attendees collect numbered tickets corresponding to the items, which can then be redeemed.

 

This tradition is more than a religious event; it is a demonstration of generosity, fostering unity within the community. By making offerings to the spirits and sharing with one another, participants are reminded of the importance of reducing selfishness and cultivating compassion.

 

The Ting Ka Jad tradition also features striking visual and cultural elements. A large effigy of Yama, the King of Hell (Tai Sue), is displayed. The effigy, constructed from bamboo and paper, stands 4-5 meters tall and is painted in vibrant blue, white, and red. Despite its intimidating appearance, the effigy carries a statue of the Bodhisattva Guan Yin on its head, symbolizing mercy and protection.

 

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Teochew opera (ngiew) troupes perform continuously for three days and nights. On the final afternoon, the troupes engage in a thrilling flag-snatching competition, racing to plant their flag first, which marks the conclusion of the event.

 

The Ting Ka Jad tradition is a rich cultural celebration that highlights the values of compassion, generosity, and community spirit, ensuring its cherished place in the hearts of those who participate.