Source: CCTV.com

04-17-2009 16:47

Burning king's ship is one of the well-known folk-custom rituals along the southwest coast of Taiwan. The original intention of the ceremony was to send the god of plague to the sea, but now it has evolved into an activity of praying for safety and blessings. The Boat Burning Ritual in Donggang is the grandest one known throughout Taiwan.

Apart from the temple fair activities, the ritual of burning king's ship on the last day is the climax of the whole sacrificing ceremony. The whole ceremony of "burning king's ship" in Donggang lasts eight days and seven nights, including a series rituals such as inviting the king, jumping over the fire, touring around, feasting the king and sending off the king, etc. The king's ship is built in imitation of ancient warships. The "sending off king" ritual will start in the wee hours accompanied by the sounds of firecrackers. The ship sails forward slowly, and then a big fire will be set on the ship (implying deporting the god of plague on the boat), which will leave together with the king who patrols for the heaven. It is to pray for blessings of the local people.

 

Editor:Zhao Yanchen