The Hsing Tian Kong (Xingtian Temple), also known as En Chu Kong Temple, is one of Taiwan’s most revered religious centers that was established in 1960s. The Hsing Tian Kong is dedicated to the so-called ‘Five Saviors’ of traditional Chinese folk beliefs, including the principal deity Lord Guan, also known as Guan Sheng Di Jun or Guan Gong. The main Hsing Tian Kong was constructed in 1967 and is located in a northern district of Taiwan’s capital Taipei, while two branch temples are set amidst leafy grounds in the city’s southern and western suburbs. These three temples are visited by thousands of people each day.
The Hsing Tian Kong blends Taiwan folk beliefs with elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism. Since its establishment by Master Hsuan Kung, the Hsing Tian Kong group has dedicated itself to promoting the public good through a mission of salvation based on the teachings and philosophy of its founder. Over the past half century, the temple has established five major areas of charitable work, including religion, culture, education, medical care, and charity with the aims of enlightening everyday people, enhancing spirituality, and creating a harmonious society.
From the time of its establishment, Hsing Tian Kong has abided by seven key tenets of its True Faith: no medium representing deity; no burning of joss paper; no giving of gold medals to thank the gods; no theatrical performances to repay the gods for prayers answered; no animal sacrifices; no donation boxes; no donation drives.
Master Hsuan Kung once said:"The mere fact that you've paid money for the incense you burn to the gods means nothing. A good heart will naturally emanate the scent of morality, and the Five Saviors will find it pleasing."
As of August 26, 2014, Hsing Tian Kong no longer sets out large incense burners or altar tables. Instead, we encourage visitors to simply fold their hands in prayer, to replace joss sticks with the "moral incense of the mind" that results from acting in accordance with "the Five Cardinal Relationships and the Eight Virtues." to replace physical offerings with a pious heart. If you are sincere and upright, your heart will be as fragrant as any incense, and will surely be blessed by the Five Saviors.
The Five Cardinal Relationships and Eight Virtues represent the traditional ethical spirit of Confucianism. They stress the practice of eight kinds of virtuous behavior to promote harmony in five sets of human relationships. This is the basis of social stability.
The Eight Virtues: