Wak Hai Cheng Bio Temple, A Captivating Shrine
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Summary - Singapore's exquisite Wak Hai Cheng Bio Temple is a Taoist shrine which inherits a rich history. Even today many devotees visit the shrine to offer prayers to the deities and perform rites to usher in good luck.
The resplendent Wak Hai Cheng Bio Temple has the distinction of being one of Singapore's most ancient Taoist shrines. Typical of Chinese temples in Singapore, the shrine came into existence as a very modest thatch and wood structure at which sailors after disembarking from their ships would pray to give thanks for reaching their destination safely. The shrine is identified as a Teochew Temple, situated in a section of Chinatown initially inhabited by members of this dialect community. Before the advent of extensive land reclamation initiatives the temple was situated near the edge of the waters.
When you enter the temple compound you will see two distinct blocks; the one on the right is dedicated to the god of business, Siong Tek Kong while the one on the left is devoted to the Mother of Heavenly Sages, Ma Cho Po, who protects travellers and assures a safe voyage. Both of these deities are revered today by the Chinese community just as they were years ago. Another important figure is the statue of the well known Gambler Brother, who is portrayed with coins surrounding his neck. The Taoist Chinese pray to this deity for luck and wealth. In times past they would place opium on the statue's lips; this practice is still continued today, except that now a black herbal-based paste is used instead of opium.
The temple is a feast for the eyes with a mesmerizing variety of ornamentation and decorations. Every available space inside the temple is filled with innumerable diminutive reliefs portraying episodes from Chinese opera. The roof of the temple is embellished with pagodas and ceramic figurines. An additional attractive effect is provided by the spiral joss which may be seen suspended within the courtyard.
Visitors may purchase joss sticks and matching paper inside the temple. Three joss sticks representing the heavens, your own parents and yourself are burned in front of the altar. Meanwhile the three complementary packets of gold leaf and intricately decorated paper are burned outside. This rite is considered to purge one's sins and bring good luck.
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Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Category Article Captivating, Cheng, Shrine, Temple
