Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival

What Is Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival?

The Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival is a specific point within the annual nine-day Taoist celebration, known in Thailand as “Jia Chai” (กินเจ) or the “Nine Emperor Gods Festival.” While not a standalone holiday, it signifies the halfway mark of intense observance. This period is primarily observed in Thailand, particularly in the southern province of Phuket, as well as in areas with significant Chinese diaspora communities.

During this festival, participants adhere to a strict vegetarian or vegan diet and engage in a range of purification rituals and ceremonies. The observance is dedicated to honouring the Nine Emperor Gods, believed to bestow good fortune and spiritual purification upon those who partake. The fifth day simply represents continued devotion and adherence to the festival’s tenets.

History and Origins of Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival

The origins of the Vegetarian Festival are largely attributed to 19th-century Chinese immigrant communities in Phuket, Thailand. One popular account traces its beginnings to a Chinese opera troupe visiting Phuket in 1825. When the troupe fell ill with malaria, they adopted a strict vegetarian diet and performed rituals to the Nine Emperor Gods, leading to their swift recovery. This event purportedly inspired the local community to adopt the practice.

Another historical perspective suggests the festival evolved from a longer tradition brought by Chinese tin miners to the region. These workers sought spiritual protection and good health through reverence for the Taoist deities. The festival combines elements of Taoist beliefs, Chinese folk religions, and local Thai customs, evolving into the unique observance seen today. The principles of abstaining from meat, alcohol, and certain vices are central to the festival’s historical and cultural background.

How Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival Is Celebrated

Celebration of the Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival is integrated into the broader nine-day event, with no distinct rituals specific to this single day. Participants maintain a strict ‘Jay’ diet, which is a vegan diet excluding not only meat and animal products but also strong-smelling vegetables such as garlic, onions, and chives. Special ‘Jay’ flags mark eateries serving appropriate food.

Observances in Thailand

In Thailand, especially in Phuket, the festival involves elaborate processions and ceremonies. Devotees known as ‘Mah Song’ (spirit mediums) act as conduits for the gods. During the festival, particularly on days leading up to and including the fifth day, Mah Song engage in various acts of self-mortification, such as body piercing with sharp objects, walking barefoot over hot coals, or climbing ladders with bladed rungs. These acts are believed to transfer evil from the community and demonstrate profound devotion to the deities. Temples serve as central hubs for prayers, offerings, and communal meals.

Throughout the festival, firecrackers are used extensively to ward off evil spirits. Participants often wear white clothing as a symbol of purity. Though the most dramatic events usually occur later in the festival, the fifth day is characterised by the continued commitment to the ‘Jay’ diet and active participation in temple activities, such as chanting, meditation, and making offerings. The community atmosphere remains one of solemnity and devotion, even amidst the vibrant street celebrations.

When Is Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival?

The Vegetarian Festival, and consequently its Fifth Day, follows the Chinese lunar calendar. It commences on the first day of the ninth lunar month and concludes on the ninth day of that same month. As a result, its dates vary annually on the Gregorian calendar, typically falling in late September or early October.

To determine the Fifth Day, one counts five days from the beginning of the festival. For example, if the festival begins on the 1st of the ninth lunar month, the Fifth Day would be the 5th of the ninth lunar month. The moveable nature of the Chinese calendar means that specific Gregorian dates must be calculated each year.

Fifth Day of the Vegetarian Festival Key Facts