summon the dead; revive obsolete things
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
to hang banners to summon the soul of the dead (superstitious folk practice)
archaicOriginally referred to Taoist or folk religious rituals performed to call back the souls of the deceased. Often associated with funeral rites.
The Taoist priests hung banners to summon souls in front of the mourning hall, performing rites for the salvation of the deceased.
According to old customs, it was believed that three days after death, family members needed to hang banners at the door to summon the soul.
verb
to attempt to revive something obsolete or dead; to resurrect old ideas or systems (often derogatory)
neutralModern figurative usage, often employed critically to describe attempts to bring back outdated ideologies, political systems, or obsolete practices. Carries a negative connotation implying futility or reactionary intent.
This trend of looking back to the past is nothing more than an attempt to resurrect the dregs of feudalism.
Attempting to resurrect the old system runs counter to the tide of history.
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Stop trying to revive those obsolete ideas; we need to look forward.