The gods march out for inspection, Taiwan, Nov 2009

The gods march out for inspection, Taiwan, Nov 2009

We were driving somewhere between Taichung and Kaoshung (Gaoshung... or was it Alishan?..) in November (2009) and came across this procession. One of the local temples was taking their gods out to 'inspect' the local vicinity. You may notice there are red papers fluttering on the ground in some parts -- those are the remnants of the firecrackers that were set off to welcome the gods as they walked past. I think it is either Guanyin or Matsu (sp?) who is also being honoured (she can be seen riding on a float). There was a LOT more noise than the vid portrays -- believe me! ;) Hubby explained to me that the 'gods' of the temple are taken out every so often so they can inspect their 'parishes' and figure out how to help the local people who tribute them. There's a kind of 'god bureaucracy' with an emperor and guardian gods, etc., and they usually stay in the temple until they are brought out for ceremonies and celebrations.

The gods marched a fair distance, and the locals were bringing out paper money and offerings to burn in their street-side fireplaces to honour them, pay tribute to them, and sometimes ask for assistance or favours from the gods.

Pretty cool, imho!

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• taiwan
• gods
• temple
• procession