Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
纸钱 refers to paper money that is burned during traditional Chinese funeral ceremonies as an offering to ancestors. It symbolizes providing financial support and comfort in the afterlife.
Related terms
鬼月 (guǐ yuè): Also known as Ghost Month, it is believed that during this month spirits roam freely on Earth and special rituals including burning 纸钱 are performed.
拜祭 (bài jì): This term refers to paying respects and making offerings to ancestors or deities during religious ceremonies.
冥币 (míng bì): These are paper offerings shaped like traditional Chinese currency and burned as a form of tribute to ancestors.