Temples or shrines provide the gods with a dwelling place on earth. To give them an ideal living environment, the pious will hire the best craftsmen and buy the finest materials to decorate the temple, regardless of the cost. According to statistics, Taiwan has over 7300 exquisitely decorated temples. The god that dwells within listens to the wishes of the people and guides them in doing good works, while at the same time indirectly protecting the family and maintaining social harmony.
The courtyard outside the sanctuary is an ideal place for children to romp and play. Beside them, the elderly gather in the shade of large banyan trees to chat, engage in a game of chess, play musical instruments or sing.
The atmosphere around the temple is most exciting on the birthday of the god. Aside from dragon dancing, open-air theatre and tournaments, foods are specially prepared to express thanks to the god for the past year of protection and guidance.
(Jill Ardourel)
[Picture Caption]
This lively display by performing acrobates, which has attracted the attention of a street crowd, is held to "welcome the god." In this case the performance is held during the celebration of the goddess Matsu's birthday.
The rich, intricate beauty of the plafond is one of the most important architectural features of the traditional temple. Pictured is a plafond from the Lungshan Temple in Lungkang.
The temple courtyard is a child's play paradise.
The red-faced god, Kuan Yin, has also come to welcome Matsu.
Due to repeated instances of theft, worshippers at this temple shrine had to "lock up" their god.
According to legend, the wispy plumes of incense smoke that trail upwards represent the hopes of the faithful. They ascend to the heavens reaching the ears of the gods.
This lively display by performing acrobates, which has attracted the attention of a street crowd, is held to "welcome the god." In this case the performance is held during the celebration of the goddess Matsu's birthday.
The temple courtyard is a child's play paradise.
The red-faced god, Kuan Yin, has also come to welcome Matsu.
Due to repeated instances of theft, worshippers at this temple shrine had to "lock up" their god.
According to legend, the wispy plumes of incense smoke that trail upwards represent the hopes of the faithful. They ascend to the heavens reaching the ears of the gods.
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