Honoring The Forgotten : Chaoshan’s Ancient Ritual of Collective Burial

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**Custom of "Baixing Gongma" (Ancestors of the People):** Historically, the Chaoshan region suffered frequent wars, famines, and natural disasters, leaving many unclaimed remains. Out of reverence for spirits and compassion for unattended souls, locals began collecting these anonymous bones and burying them collectively in "Baixing Gongma" tombs. The situation in the video might involve organizing or relocating such tombs.

The "Baixing Gongma" custom is a unique cultural and folk religious phenomenon in Chaoshan. Below are further details:

**Origins**
The Chaoshan region endured wars, famines, storms, and tidal floods throughout history, forcing many to flee their homes and die anonymously. Moved by fear of spirits and pity for these forgotten souls, locals developed the "Baixing Gongma" tradition.

**Meaning and Practices**
Chaoshan people refer to grandparents and ancestors as "Gongma." Thus, the collected anonymous remains are called "Baixing Gongma" ("Ancestors of the People"). Special tombs or shrines are built to house these bones. The pottery containers for the remains are locally called *jindou* (spirit urns) or *lingweng* (spirit jars).

**Related Rituals**
During festivals like the Zhongyuan Festival (Hungry Ghost Festival) on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, Chaoshan communities hold Ullambana ceremonies. These rituals focus on charitable acts and offerings to "lonely souls," including collective worship of "Baixing Gongma." Offerings of food and incense are made to honor these unclaimed ancestors, pray for local peace, and seek blessings for good weather and harvests.

**Cultural Significance**
This tradition reflects the Chaoshan people’s compassion, inclusivity, and respect for ancestors, embodying their commitment to moral values and social responsibility. It reinforces communal bonds and inspires future generations to perform good deeds and aid others.