Had thought of a catchy title but couldn't use it upon realization that I wasn't sure which insect group it belonged to. A quick search on the Internet later, I conclude that its a moth based on the characteristics that its dull in color, it has a thick and fuzzy body and its wings are held flat against body when resting. But still, I might be wrong.
Anyway, other than showing how large the moth is and that my finger tips are somewhat fairer than the rest of my hand, in case you didn't know, it is Chinese belief that the visiting moth, usually uncommonly huge one, black or dull in color, is a physical manifestation of the spirit or soul of a deceased one returning to pay a visit.
Nothing to do with bad luck, misfortunes or curses.
The moth(s) would normally stay (at the same location) for a few days before disappearing. I've been warned since young not to disturb the moth(s) and to just leave them alone (which in this case, I didn't) as a sign of respect. To have a better understanding, I've inquired why they should be left alone but never got any explanation, typical Chinese 'education' of never question and just do what you've been told.
I would assume the warning's probably for kids fearing that they would unknowingly torture then pulverize the moth into pieces. But even when everyone's all grown up?
Seriously, I mean, if I'm dead and took all the trouble to transform into a moth and fly all the way to visit, let's say my children to see how they're doing, they had better serve me awesome roast pork and liquor, invite me into their house and switch to my favorite channel on TV. Else, I'll make sure that they're aware that its me and that I'm bloody pissed!
Yeah, unless there are some type of afterlife rules that prohibits me from doing so.
Anyway, other than showing how large the moth is and that my finger tips are somewhat fairer than the rest of my hand, in case you didn't know, it is Chinese belief that the visiting moth, usually uncommonly huge one, black or dull in color, is a physical manifestation of the spirit or soul of a deceased one returning to pay a visit.
Nothing to do with bad luck, misfortunes or curses.
The moth(s) would normally stay (at the same location) for a few days before disappearing. I've been warned since young not to disturb the moth(s) and to just leave them alone (which in this case, I didn't) as a sign of respect. To have a better understanding, I've inquired why they should be left alone but never got any explanation, typical Chinese 'education' of never question and just do what you've been told.
I would assume the warning's probably for kids fearing that they would unknowingly torture then pulverize the moth into pieces. But even when everyone's all grown up?
Seriously, I mean, if I'm dead and took all the trouble to transform into a moth and fly all the way to visit, let's say my children to see how they're doing, they had better serve me awesome roast pork and liquor, invite me into their house and switch to my favorite channel on TV. Else, I'll make sure that they're aware that its me and that I'm bloody pissed!
Yeah, unless there are some type of afterlife rules that prohibits me from doing so.
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