Chinese Temples - an experience in opulence

Since the time I have stayed in Singapore, chinese temples have always intrigued me endlessly. These temples are a photographer's delight. Decorative carvings, motifs, murals, golden dragons entwined in pillars, intricate chinese designs on the altars, opulent chandeliers, the works. One enters a different world altogether. A world never seen before. These mostly have a boat shaped motifs on the outside showcasing its rich and magnificent cultural heritage. Just like the hindus they have a god for everything. A god for fertility, a god of wealth, a god to motivate children to study well, to find a life partner etc. The one in this picture is called 'Chong Ghee Temple' Very close to my house - there are three temples in a row - a taoist chinese, a buddhist and a hindu temple ( one of a kind of a temple in SG this temple has no walls and two entrances). The Chong Ghee temple was moved from jalan kayu to Senkang in 2001. It was officially opened on 27th june 2004.

There are three deities in this temple - 'Kwang Tek Kong' (main deity), 'Seng Yong Kong' and the third deity is a goddess for fertility. The main deities are prayed to bring in prosperity in business and generate wealth. Just like any other place of worship - mass prayers, chantings, celebrations on holy days etc are conducted on a regular basis. For eg on 25th December every year the temple holds prayers and chanting session for the 'Prayer Rituals for Confucianism.' A taoist priest leads students in prayers for blessings, enlightment for wisdom, progress in their studies and to achieve highest levels of their education. It also is the birthday of the god 'Kong Zhi' which motivates students to reach their highest potential.

I couldn't help noticing that one of the disciples had offered 'guinness' beer to one of the gods! The chinese too are not too strict about leaving one's slippers outside the main premise.

What stunned me is this sight of 60 old men sitting in a row! A lady in the temple told me these are called as the 'God of Stars' known as 'Tai Shui.' These god protect who are in bad luck, bad health etc. For more on chinese temples in singapore please read http://chinesetemples.blogspot.com/