The dark history of China's ghost marriages
Origins: The origins of the tradition are not exactly known. Some sources date it back to 3,000 years ago.
Why these posthumous marriages take place: The reasons vary, spending on whether it's a man or woman.
Why these posthumous marriages take place: As for men, it was a matter of carrying on the family lineage.
Why these posthumous marriages take place: Another reason why these weddings would take place was to ensure a young brother.
Origins: In China, there is an ancient tradition known as mínghūn. This is a ghost marriage.
Superstitions: "The basic ideology behind ghost weddings is that the deceased continue their lives in the afterlife.
Superstitions: "So if someone didn't get married when they lived, they still need to be wedded after their death.
Engaged women: For women who were previously engaged and their fiancé died.
The ceremony: In the case where one party is deceased, he/she will be represented by effigies made of bamboo.
The ceremony: In the case of two deceased people, both would be represented by funeral plaques.