In several Asian countries, a chilling practice has become the stuff of ghost stories. It involves selling salt to ghosts in cemeteries. Many view this as an urban legend, but it has deep roots in tradition, especially in Singapore.
For years, people believed that ghosts needed salt to prevent their bodies from decomposing. In return for this salt, they would pay the living handsomely. This practice often attracted desperate individuals looking for quick money. However, strict rules governed this eerie transaction. Breaking these rules could lead to dire consequences, even death.
Traditionally, the salt seller would visit a cemetery at dusk. They had to stay until dawn, with no exceptions. Leaving the cemetery before daybreak was believed to bring certain death. Over time, the legend evolved, and now many say the seller should arrive at midnight instead.
There are several important rules to follow. First, the seller must bring enough salt to last the entire night. If they run out before dawn, it could mean disaster. The salt should be divided into small bags, often made from tied tissue paper.
Upon entering the cemetery, the seller must find a suitable spot to sit. They are instructed to bow their heads and never look up. If they do, it could lead to fatal consequences. In modern versions of the story, sellers are advised to wear jackets with hoods to shield themselves.
As the night progresses, ghosts are said to approach the seller one by one. With their heads bowed, the seller would see the ghost’s outstretched hand and pass over a bag of salt. In return, the ghost would place payment in the seller’s hand, all while the seller keeps their gaze down.
These transactions could continue throughout the night. By dawn, the seller might walk away with thousands of dollars. Traditionally, ghosts would pay with “hell notes,” which are paper money believed to turn into real currency at sunrise. In more recent tales, ghosts sometimes pay with leaves marked with numbers, which are said to be winning lottery numbers.
Another crucial rule is that the seller must spend the money within two weeks. If they fail to do so, they risk losing it.
Recently, a man decided to test this eerie practice in a cemetery. He filmed his experience, which lasted about 40 minutes. The video showcases the chilling atmosphere and the tension of waiting for ghosts to appear.
While many dismiss this practice as mere folklore, it continues to intrigue and frighten those who hear the stories. The blend of desperation, tradition, and the supernatural creates a captivating narrative that has been passed down through generations.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the tale of selling salt to spirits remains a fascinating part of cultural history. It serves as a reminder of how folklore can shape our understanding of the world around us. So, what do you think? Would you dare to sell salt to ghosts in a cemetery?
