TW-Lukang Town

Lukang is a one of the famous cultural towns in Taiwan. The Matsu Temple in this twon is also a famous religionary place. This pciture shows the “Firing Censer”, inferring a sign from gods in traditional culture and custom.

In Taiwan, which is surrounded by sea, almost every old town has its own Matsu temple. Matsu was a legend in coastal areas in south China. According to literature, she was thought to be a witch when she was alive. And she used to be commended and granted a nobility by more than ten kings in China after she passed away. Now she is one of the most famous Sea Gods in Eastern Asia.

Despite raining, the faithful pilgrims are to offer sacrifice for Matsu.

To offer sacrifices to deities or ancestors is a common activity in Taiwan. In some way, actually, people comfort themselves by means of praying.

The censer is like a bridge between gods and people. People place their joss sticks inside a censer after offering or praying their thanks or  implorations.

This is activity show ot greet Matsu.

~ by seanchens on September 11, 2009.