Life, Death and Ancestors
How does dedicating rites to one ancestor differ from generations of ancestors?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
The difference is whether merit is intended for one relative or generations sharing a surname. Naming one directs the intention to that person; generations include multiple ancestral generations of that surname.
Under that Ghost Festival ceremony’s arrangements, relatives deceased less than a year and not yet entered in the tablet were listed separately under the deceased. Someone already in the tablet could still receive a specific dedication as father, mother or grandparent. Generations of a surname formed another unit. This explains how recipients were distinguished then.
In our faith understanding, one share of merit dedicated to one or many differs. Someone wishing to assist a father specifically and also past generations could express both separately. Clarify intention and recipients before selecting an arrangement. Participation in every category is not mandatory.