The birthday of Buddha Sakyamuni is commemorated in every the 15^th day of the 4^th month of Chinese Calendar. But in temples {Kelenteng}, it is commemorated at the 8^th day of 4^th month of Chinese Calendar. The day he成道 reached a perfect Explanation is commemorated in every the 8^th day of 12^th month of Chinese Calendar year.

Buddha Sakyamuni is the Pioneer of Buddhism which is one of 3 (three) big religions in the world with the followers reaching billions of people. Buddha Sakyamuni is a great & noble master of religion, as well as wise and discreet holy man & recognized worldwide.

Ideology & civilization (culture) of Buddhism ordered by Buddha Sakyamuni, was transmitted from a generation to generation, has long been become the important & primary aspect that provides various colors nuance of Eastern World, and has also left perfect and abundant worthy culture for the world history.

釋迦牟尼佛 Shi Jia Mo Ni Fo {Hok Kian = Sik Ka Mo Ni Hut} Buddha Sakyamuni was born in the year of 623 B.C. in a country named Kapilavastu (nearby Nepal) with the name of Sidharta Gautama. Sidharta means: “Someone who succeeds achieving his goal”. Sidharta’s father is King Sudhodana who came from Sakya ethnic group. Because he comes from Sakya ethnic group then he was called a Buddha Sakyamuni. His mother is Queen Mahamaya. Before giving birth of Sidharta, Goddess Mahamaya dreamt of seeing a white elephant entering her uterus. Before he was born as Prince Sidharta, he was actually Maha Bodhisatva who came from the Heaven of Tusita.

When he was born, there was any miracle like recorded in Sakyamuni Buddha Book: at the time of the said baby was born, he walked 7 (seven) steps. Red & golden yellow lotus came out from the earth every time he stepped his feet. In the last step, with his right hand pointed to the heavens & the left hand pointed out to the earth, such baby echoed his voice clearly audible: “It’s me the Greatest in between heavens & earth. I come from the Heavens of Tusita. I come to set forth the secrets of universe & the truth of life, in order to free the creature from the suffering. It is my latest birth in this world!”

That was a Great Bodhisatva has been born through the uterus of kind-hearted and glorious goodness Queen Maha Maya. A week after giving birth the Prince Sidharta, his mother passed away. He was then brought up by his aunt Mahaprajapati.

Prince Sidharta has been married in the age of 16 years with his sister-in-law Princess Yasodhara. They were blessed with a son named Rahula, meaning shackle.

As a Prince, Sidharta enjoyed comfortable, luxury & good life of Palace. King Sudhodana hoped him to take the throne & replace his father as a King. But Prince Sidharta was not accustomed to such kind of luxurious, happy & and high established life.

In the age of 29 years old, he saw 4 matters that then changed his course of life. Firstly, he saw an old person who walked unsteadily by leaning on his stick. Secondly, he saw someone suffering a serious illness. Thirdly, he saw someone to have passed away. Fourthly, he saw a Buddhist monk wearing a yellow robe walked calmly with the face full of serenity. The first three items made the Princes realized the natural law that definitely will be experienced by everybody regardless who they are. The fourth matter indicated the way to overcome world suffering & reached peaceful life.

Such was Prince Sidharta left the palace in the age of 29 years & developed himself with full of sufferings in Uruvela Forest. For six years he developed himself to life as a hermit. Finally, under a Bodhi tree, he obtained a Perfect Explanation in the age of 35 years & from that period he has been called as Buddha Gautama.

In Chinese language, 如來佛Ru Lai Fo {Hok Kian = Ji Lay Hud } is a honorary term of address for Buddha Sakyamuni. The term of address Ru Lai is the translation from Sanskrit, Tathagata, meaning He who is coming.

Then he set forth Dharma for 45 years to his uncountable amount & established Sangha (a holy brotherhood of Buddhist Monks). He was died in the age of 80 years.

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Sik Ka Mo Ni Hut – Perintis Agama Buddha

Hoa Kong was one of sons of Prince Bun and a younger brother of Emperor Bu Ong. He lived during Ciu West Dynasty era (1027-771 SM). Hoa Kong is one of the holy men during that period. Ciu Kong Tan was his call name. As a wise holy man, he composed books of civilization. For example, Ciu Lee (Ciu Dynasty’s Book of Customs and Traditions), containing marriage customs and mourning customs. There were also books of dream interpretation, presentiments, and so on which up to know still becomes reference of various circles.

But people, particularly respected him as Deity of Mate. In his birthday, his unmarried adorers presented baskets of flowers (Hoa Lan) with the expectation to immediately get mates (easy to find mate).

Hoa Kong was accustomed to be appeared with both of his wives, the first wife (Toa Ma) on his left side, while the one who was spoke joyfully with small children was his second wife (Ji Ma). It is necessary to add in several matters that Confucianism considers Ciu Kong Tan as his spiritual teacher.

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Hwa Kong Hwa Pho – Dewa/i Perjodohan

五虎將軍 Wu Hu Jiang Jun {Hok Kian = Go Ho Ciong Kun} was Five Generals of Tiger. In Chinese classical stories there were many stories telling about the courage of generals who due to their heroism were dubbed as General of Tiger. In三國演義 San Guo Yan Yi {Sam Kok Yen Gi = Story of Three Kingdom} story, all five Generals of Tiger are:

1.    關公  Guan Gong {Kwan Kong}

2.    張飛  Zhang Fei {Thio Hui}

3.    張朱龍  Zhang Zhu Long {Thio Cu Liong}

4.    黃仲  Huang Zhong {Oey Tiong}

5.    馬銚  Ma Diao {Ma Tiauw}

But in this 金德院 Jin De Yuan {Kim Tek Ie} temple was not the said five Generals of Tiger were admired, but merely the realization of 土地公 Tu Di Gong {Tho Te Kong = God of Earth).

According to Tho Te Kong’s belief was often realized as a tiger. Tho Te Kong himself was deemed as a ruling god who bestowed mercy to his people. Being come out with the appearance of Five Tigers and existed in Five Directions (East, South, Middle, West & North), means Tho Te Kong is everywhere. In the appearance of animated tiger is believed to be able to reject the bad effects that possibly come from five directions.

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Go Ho Ciong Kun – Lima Jendral Harimau

The Buddhism considers that source of all sufferings in human life is無明 Digression (cannot fully see the real truth of a problem/object). To overcome this digression we must rely on the wisdom/ discretion.

文殊菩薩 Wen Shu Pu Sa {Hok Kian = Bun Cu Pho Sat} is the realization of discretion. Therefore, even though he is not a leading figure in history, but since he could perform distinctive feature of Buddhism ideology implicitly & evidently, then his position in Buddhism is very high. He is the first Bodhisatva who is mentioned in the holy books. Even there is a certain holy book declaring that Wen Shu Pu Sa is a guru of all Buddha within 3 periods of life.

Wen Shu Pu Sa was also called 文殊師利 Wen Shu Shi Li , liberally translated into妙吉祥 Miao Ji Xiang (Miraculous fortune), 法王子 Fa Wang Zi (Son of King Dharma), etc. Wen Shu Pu Sa who represents the wisdom, &普賢菩薩 Pu Xian Pu Sa who represents characters at temples in China & Japan is often performed beside Sang Buddha Sakyamuni.

Manjusri is Bodhisatva of Discretion and Knowledge & to be considered equal to Bodhisatva Avalokitesvara or Kwan Im Pho Sat who constitutes Bodhisatva of Compassion. Manjusri in Sanskrit means “Friendly Grandeur”. Chinese people consider Manjusri is Bodhisatva who gives information & discretion for anyone active in performing Dharma.

Sacred place of Bun Cu Pho Sat is in Mount五臺山 Wu Tai Shan, Shan Xi Province. In this place Bun Cu Pho Sat often shows up his miracle. This Mount Wu Tai Shan is one of 4 holy mounts of Buddhism in China & becomes a gathering place for the followers of Bun Cu Pho Sat. Even though to reach the peak of Wu Tai Shan we must pass by with hard & complicated journey. They want to feel a spiritual tranquility by reaching Wen Shu Pu Sa temple located at the said peak of mountain.

There are many testimonies on the appearance of miracle lights which were witnessed by many followers of Buddhism at the peak of the said holy mountain. By ordinary people, it is probably considered as “hallucination” of those who were suffered from tiredness due to climbing up such mountain. But, it must be considered that the people who climbed up there generally were those who wanted to seek for “Discretion” & they have undergone meditation diligently, so that they had thoughts that is not easily shaky or unstable  or easily influenced by the phenomena which may result in the said hallucination.

The most often appearing shape of Bun Cu Pho Sat is his right hand holding magic jewel sword, left hand holding a holy book, rides a green fur lion. Magic jewel sword represents the wisdom which may decide all kilesa (spiritual nervousness). Roll of holy book represents the wisdom like an ocean & guiding the humankind entering holy book warehouse. The lion being ridden is valued as a King of Animal & also called the Roaring of Lion, spread out Dharma Buddha. Then Bun Cu Pho Sat rides the lion bearing the meaning to develop Buddha Dharma & save the humankind.

In the story of Miao Shan, green lion Wen Shu Pu Sa was told as the reincarnation of God of Fire, while the white elephant Pu Xian Pu Sa was  God of Water. These both Gods caught the entourage of King of Miao Zhuang who would go on a pilgrimage to Xiang Shan, the place of Miao Shan. Then both of them were conquered by the Commander of Heavens. After Miao Shan becoming Bodhisatva, both his older sisters were also appointed to accompany her. Miao Shu (in other version was called as Miao Qing) appointed as Wen Shu Pu Sa & Miao Yin appointed as Pu Xian Pu Sa. Even though Wen Shu Pu Sa & Pu Xian Pu Sa originated from India, finally had the form of China 100 %.

The temple that is especially used to honor Bun Cu Pho Sat are seldom available, except the one in Wu Tai Shan. But its statues are seen at Buddhism characterized temples. Bun Cu Pho Sat is often performed in the form of Triad together with Sakyamuni Buddha & Pho Hian Pho Sat. Or together with Kwan Im Pho Sat & Pho Hian Pho Sat. in the formof Triad, with Kwan Im, usually Bun Cu Pho Sat & Pho Hian Pho Sat is performed in the form of woman. Kwan Im as a symbol The Most Beneficent & Merciful, Bun Cu represents the discretion, Pho Hian as a symbol of affection implementation. Three of them are the excellence of Buddhism teachings.

The birthday of Wen Shu Pu Sa is commemorated on every 4^th day of 4^th Month of Chinese Calendar & is particularly commemorated every year by the Buddhism Zen Followers.

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Bun Cu Pho Sat – Manjusri Bodhisatva

In Buddhist Holy Book is written: The biggest difference between human being and animal is because human being has a sense of shame. Shy means shy to commit make crimes, shy to commit sins. Someone has sense of shame to misbehave, during his/her life does a kindness, then after passing away he/she can become a god. In Chinese language, Can Kui means sense of shame. It is called 慚愧祖師 Can Kui Zu Shi, not because he was ashamed to misbehave, but he felt ashamed because he himself felt that good deed that he did is still insufficient.

Can Kui Zu Shi {Hok Kian = Can Khui Co Su} is Guardian Angle who was adored by Hakka- descent people. Original name of Can Kui Zu Shi was 阪撩拳 Pan Liao Quan. He was a Buddhist monk originating from Yan Ping, Fu Jian Province

It is said, when he was born, he couldn’t open one of his hands. When a Buddhist monk wrote a letter of Liao of his closed back of hand, and then immediately his hand was successfully opened. Therefore he was named Liao Qian meaning “Topnotch Fist”.

In early age he lived as a shepherd of livestock. To protect his livestock didn’t go far away; he grew a circle on the ground surrounding his cows. Surprisingly, it is found that none of his cows got out from the said circle.

Pan Liao Quan became a Buddhist monk in Yun Nan Shan Hill, Mei Xian Regency, Guang Dong Province. There, he built a temple that is well know to date, Ling Guang Si constitutes one of the oldest temples in such area.

An oddity that amazes people to date is despite of being surrounded by tall and dense trees, none of leaf have even fallen to litter roofs of Ling Guang Si Temple & none of bird are seen making a nest on its roof. This peculiarity makes Ling Guang Si as a very important tourism object in such area.

Adoration of Can Khui Co Su was brought by Hakka immigrants to Taiwan & Southeast Asia. In Taiwan there are more than 20 Can Khui Co Su temples; most of them are located in Nan Tou. In Indonesia, other than in this Kim Tek Ie Temple, adoration to Can Khui Co Su is also in Ling Guang Si Temple, Jakarta.

Can Khui Co Su’s Birthday is commemorated in every the 25^th day 3^rd month of Chinese calendar. According to the record, he passed away in A.D. 861.

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Can Khui Co Su – Dewa Pelindung Masyarakat Hakka

媽祖 People outside China dubbed Ma Zu {Hok Kian = Ma Co} as “Goddess of Sea from China”, was one of treasures of the most respectable Chinese Gods in the circle of people. Ma Co temples in Taiwan only, reach the amount of 800 units. The most crowded Temple is in北港Bei Gang. Every year at the 23^rd day of 3^rd month of Chinese calendar (coincided with Ma Zu’s Birthday), people who come to worship in this Temple, reached the amount of more than 1 million people.

Ma Co was also known with the title天上聖母Tian Shang Sheng Mu {Thian Siang Sing Bu}. Her familiar nickname was媽祖婆Ma Co Po. Her original name was林默娘Lin Mo Niang {Lim Bik Nio}, born in福建Fu Jian {Hok Kian} Province, 湄洲Mei Zhou {Bi Ciu} island nearby莆田Pu Tian {Poh Chan}. Lin Mo Niang was born at night at the 23^rd day of 3^rd month of Chinese calendar of 960 A.D., namely during the government of Emperor Tai Zu of North Song Dynasty, the first Jian Long year. When she was born, red light focused on from the sky into his delivery room & fragrance was smelt anywhere. Why was she named Mo, meaning silent? Since he was born until she was in the age of more than 1 month, Ma Zu has never cried any more. Then his father named Lin Mo Niang (Reticent Girl).

Since she was in a carrying cloth (in the age of around 1 year), when she saw Buddha Rupang or Gods statue, she directly gave salute with Pai – have characteristic of Anjali (worship position with both hands flat on the chest). When she was 5 years old, Lim Bik Nio could read觀音經Guan Yin Jing {Kwan Im Keng = Kitab Suci Kwan Im} by heart. It proved that Lim Bik Nio has in-depth motive soul mate with Buddha & Gods.

During the school age she could understand lessons San Jiao {Sam Kaw = Tridharma: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism} with the extraordinary understanding. In addition to study diligently, she was also diligent to pray. She was very loyal to her parents, & liked to help neighbors who were suffered from calamity. Therefore villagers respected him very much.

After becoming quite mature she was not willing to get married even though she was proposed by a wealthy person Bu from Hok Kian. Her mission came to the world to help the mankind started to show her intense feeling in the age of 16 years old.

Lim Bik Nio considerably understood astronomy & weather circulation. Life in the seaside made her become a girl who was not fear to encounter horrible typhoon & wave being confronted by the seamen. In addition, she could also treat sick person. Her skill in this treatment resulted in the villagers called her as Ling Ni meaning Miracle Girl, Long Ni (Dragon Girl), & Shen Gu (Sacred Auntie).

In the age of 23 years old, Lim Bik Nio managed to defeat 2 invulnerable ghosts that controlled Tao Hua Shan Mountain. Both ghosts were Qian Li Yan {Cian Li Gan} who could see from thousand kilometers away, Li, & Sun Feng Er {Sun Hong Ni} who could hear from thousand kilometers away, then became her guards. Furthermore, Lim Bik Nio helped people to eradicate crimes & helped ships attacked by hurricane on the sea. Due to her good deeds her name was well known in entire province.

Once upon a time when she slept, in her sight she saw her father & both older brothers had trouble in the middle of the sea. The boat they rode was hit by the wave resulting in it broken disorderly. Immediately Bik Nio flew from the heavens & went down to help them. Her oldest brother was held with her left hand, while her right hands seized her second brother. Her powerless father was helped by biting her father’s shirt. Suddenly, Bik Nio’s mother woke her up from her sleep since she heard a queer sound of Bik Nio like she was talking in her sleep. Bik Nio woke up suddenly. After she composed herself, Bik Nio told her mother that she had just helped both of her older brothers but she failed to help her father because when she was biting her father’s shirt, she replied her mother’s call (who woke her up). So that her mouth was open & her biting loosened.

Ever since her divine mission was getting stronger and stronger, she helped anyone who needed help on the sea. During Tiong Yang celebration, the 9^th day of 9^th month of Chinese calendar or 987 A.D., when se was 27 years old, Lim Bik Nio ascended to the paradise. In that morning day, people of Mei Zhou saw colorful cloud blanket such island. In the sky, it was heard a very melodious music. It was seen Lim Bik Nio slowly ascended to the heaven & to become a Goddess. One year later, the people established a temple in the place Lin Mo Niang was lifted to the paradise. The temple established in Mei Zhou was the first Ma Zu Temple in China.

Likewise Kwan Kong who was respected all over the world, Ma Co was also adored with full of respect. Because without her the Chinese people who traveled around the world, were impossible to come back safely. In view of nautical technology at that time was very inadequate. Where the immigrants arrived, it was there they established temple to respect Ma Co who has protected them during the sailing.

During Song Dynasty era, maritime trade from Hok Kian province developed greatly. But the seamen were aware that life in the middle of the sea was always full of disasters that every time could threat. To request protection & safety, Ma Co statue was always carried everywhere. The story of miracle about the appearance Gods of Ma Zu in proving help to the seamen started to disseminate.

In 1122 A.D., Emperor Song Hui Zong ordered a minister named Lu Yun Di to become an Ambassador to Gao Li country (now Korea). In their journey, this group was hit by sudden storm. Of 8 ships that were sailing, 7 of them were sunk. Only the ship ridden by Lu Yun Di was safe. The Ambassador was surprise very much. He asked to his subordinates, who is the God that has rescued them? Among his escorts there was someone who accidentally originating from Pu Tian & usually prayed to Goddess of Ma Zu. He then told to Lu Yun Di that they were rescued by the Goddess originating from Mei Zhou Island, namely: Lin Mo Niang. Then Lu Yun Di reported this matter to Emperror Song Hui Zong. As a sense of respect, the Emperor awarded a title Sun Ji Fu Ren to Lin Mo Niang & a board inscribed with Sun Ji, it means A very Essential Help. The handwriting of the Emperor was then installed in the temple in Mei Zhou. Ever since, adoration against Ma Zu began obtaining an official recognition from the Kingdom.

Since Song Dynasty era [960–1279 A.D.] until Qing Dynasty [1644 – 1911 A.D.], the kingdom has awarded not less than 28 honorary titles to Ma Zu. Those titles among others are: Fu Ren, meaning that the Great Lady, Tian Hou or Tian Fei (Heavenly Queen Consort), Tian Shang Sheng Mu (Holy Mother from the Heavens) and, Ma Zu Po (Mother Ma Zu).

It was since Song Dynasty, in the main cities all along the East China beach that stretching out from North to the South namely: Dan Dong, Yan Tai, Qin Huang Dao, Tian Jin, Shang Hai, Ning Po, Hang Zhou, Fu Zhou, Xia Men, Guang Zhou, Macao etc, have appeared temples to adore this Goddess of Sea Protector. Ma Zu has become an idol of the seaman from the entire country, no longer limited to those originating from a Mei Zhou only.

It has been a custom at that time, prior to the sailing started; a big prayer service was always performed to request protection of Ma Zu. In each ship was always provided praying room for its statue.

A well known seamen during Ming Dynasty era, Zheng He {Ceng Ho}, who was known with the title San Bao Da Ren {Sam Po Tai Jin}, even though he was a Moslem, he didn’t forget this custom. 7 times Zheng He led large armada consisting of tens of ship, visited various Asian & African countries. Every time starting the sailing, Zheng He always led a great prayer service ceremony to Ma Zu to request protection on safety of his journey.

In the 3^rd Ceng Ho’s sea voyage, namely in 1409 A.D. (the 7^th year of the Government of Emperor Kaisar Yong Le of Ming Dynasty), upon the instruction of the Emperor, Ceng Ho took the time to pray in Ma Zu temple in Mei Zhou Island. A ancient inscription of Ceng Ho inheritance existed in Zhang Le, Fu Jian province, mentioned in detail that safety of Zheng He journey until successful to complete duty to perform a goodwill visit to foreign countries reached to 7 times, thanks to miracle & protection of Tian Shang Sheng Mu. The title Tian Fei was awarded to Ma Zu during the Emperor Yong Le government era of Ming Dynasty, owing to his protection to Ceng Ho armada.

During this Ming Dynasty era, simultaneously with the increasing number of inhabitants of Hok Kian province who emigrated, homage to Ma Zu entered Taiwan Island. The oldest Ma Zu Temple in Taiwan Province was in Ma Gong city, Peng Hu Islands. Currently, in Taiwan there are more than 800 Ma Zu temples, and two third of people adore his statue inside home.

The biggest & the most frequent visited Ma Zu Temple by people in Taiwan is in Bei Gang. Respected Tian Fei Statue here is originating from Mei Zhou which was brought there in the 33^rd year of Emperor Kang Xi government. Honorary title Tian Hou is also a gift from this Emperor Kang Xi, since he was considered to have protected the safety of group of envoys from Qing Kingdom who were sailing to Taiwan. Thereby, Bei Gang is considered as a holy place for the homage of Ma Zu. Every year coincided with the Ma Zu’s birthday (the 23^rd day of 3^rd month of Chinese calendar), millions of Taiwan people flood Bei Gang city to perform pilgrimage.

Paying homage to Ma Zu also emerge in many countries, simultaneously with the spread of Chinese emigrants to various parts of the world. In the countries such as Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, even until the United States and so on, where may Chinese emigrants stay, many found Ma Zu temples. In Japan, homage to Ma Zu was started at the end of Ming Dynasty. In one of small cities in Japan, Sui Hu, Ma Zu has been included into the ranks and files of Japanese Gods & respected in the main temple of that city. In Japan, there are approximately 100 Ma Zu temples.

Ma Zu is always presented as a beautiful Goddess & wearing full dress of a queen consort, guarded by both devils who have ever been defeated namely Qian Li Yan (One Thousand-eye Li) & Sun Feng Er (the Windy Ear). Qian Li Yan has bluish green skin with fanged mouth & armed with forking spear. Sun Feng Er has brownish red skin; its mouth also has fangs & armed with long handle axe.

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Ma Co – Dewi Pelindung Pelayaran

Everybody of course recognizes that he/she was delivered of by father & mother (parents). But among so many parents, who gave birth to them? Then, parents of Chinese People, who gave birth to them? These are questions about the origin of Chinese people.

At the moment of 清明節 Qing Ming Jie – Qing Ming Festival (usually falls on the 4^th or 5^th day of April every year), is the time to clean grave/tomb, the time for Chinese people pray for their ancestors (grandparents or parents, etc) who have passed away & commemorates the merits of ancestors. It is not a superstition, but it is to say the highest sense of honor to the ancestors, meaning that we don’t forget our origin, in other word we don’t forget where we originate from.

Qing Ming festival {Hok Kian = Ceng Beng} is a Festival to clean graves, also called Hari Raya Musik (Music Festival), is a day containing the deepest meaning.

These 2 letters清明 of Qing Ming, means clear sky with bright weather, in which daylight is longer than the night, atmosphere of spring is seen everywhere, flowers are blooming, plants and & creatures lives cleanly, freshly& chilly. Clean weather, bright view, so that it is called Qing Ming Festival (literal meaning = clean & bright).

Ceng Beng is the 5^th day of 24 Jie Qi, is the season where farmers sow seeds & plant flowers. Befor starting to farm, the farmers pray first to their ancestors, thank to the ancestors yang who have given paddy field- dry field, lfe, property (legacy), goodness, etc. it is a very meaningful matter. Thus, this day is called思親節 Si Qin Jie (baca: Se Chin Cie), namely Festival to Commemorate the Ancestors.

In the past, at the moment of this Ceng Beng Festival, rice, vegetables & fruits that have been prayed to the ancestors, distributed to the shepherds, poor child, or poor people around the graves. It states that goodness of ancestors is also distributed to be enjoyed by others.

Chinese ethnic group is called 中華民族 Zhong Hua Min Zu {Hok Kian = Tiong Hoa Bin Cu}. The first ancestor of Chinese people was 軒轅黃帝 Xuan Yuan Huang Di (read: Sien Yen Huang Ti). According to a legend, Xuan Yuan Huang Di was born on the 5^th day of the 4^th month of the year 4608 Before Christmas. At that time, around the watershed of Huang He {Huang Ho} river, there were so many ethnic groups. All ethnic groups attacked each other, so that people couldn’t pass a safe & peaceful life.

When Xuan Yuan Huang Di & Chi You (one of cruel and brutal ethnic group leaders) engaged in battle, Huang Di troops attacked to Zhang He, get severe resistance from Chi You & his troops, so that failed to challenge Zhang He. Lalu Xuan Yuan Huang Di invited music expert Ling Lun to compose “Song for Passing Zang” sung by the whole troops. Finally within heroic and authoritative song & musical strain, Xuan Yuan Huang Di & his troops succeeded to pass Zhang He, & conquered Chi You. From this matter, it can be understood that music is not only able to entertain ourselves, can also bring in the victory.

After Xuan Yuan Huang Di conquered cruel & brutal Chi You, he united the entire nation, then founded a new country & improve people standard of living in safe and peaceful condition.

After displacing the capital city to Nan Jing, the Chinese Government stipulated Ceng Beng as Festival to Clean graves of Chinese People, stated that all Chinese people don’t forget the first ancestors, founder of state, Xuan Yuan Huang Di.

When anti-Japan war (1937 – 1945), the China Government stipulated the 5^th of April as a Music Feast Day, as well as to commemorate the presentation of Great music work created during Xuan Yuan Huang Di era.

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玄天上帝 Xuan Tian Shang Di (Hok Kian: Hian Thian Siang Te) is one of the most popular Chinese God, being honored and worshipped worldwide from Northern to Southern China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Indonesia. Some also regard Him as 上帝公 Shang Di Gong (Siang Te Kong). He ranks amongst the highest Gods, next to Yu Huang Da Di, The Yellow Jade Emperor (Ruler of All Heavens). He is also one of the Four Great Heavenly Gods:

1. 青天上帝 Qing Tian Shang Di of the East
2. 殷天上帝 Yan Tian Shang Di of the South
3. 白天上帝 Bai Tian Shang DI of the West
4. 玄天上帝 Xuan Tian Shang Di of the North

Hian Thian Siang Te has sovereignty over the Northern Heaven, thus became the highest leader amongst Gods in that region. His image is often portrait stepping on a tortoise and a snake. Xuan Wu is an official God in the Northern region, and symbolizes as snake and tortoise. Hian Thian Siang Te is also known as 真武大帝 Zhen Wu Da Di (Cia Bu Tay Tee) who is in fact, Xuan Wu. On the left and right are His two assistants, General Zhao and General Kang.

The worship of Hian Thian Siang Te began to flourish during the Ming Dynasty. It was stated that during the revolution of Zhu Yuan Zhang (the founder of Ming Dynasty), he once suffered a major defeat during a battle which led him to hide in a Shang Di Miao Temple in Wu Tang Shan mountain area of Hu Bei province. Due to the protection of Hian Thian Siang Te, Zhu Yuan Zhang managed to escape from the Mongolian troops who were sweeping out the remaining of his army.

Again due to the aid of Hian Thian Siang Te, Zhu Yuan Zhang succeeded in overcoming the Mongolian invasion, and overthrown the Yuan Dynasty. He established the Ming Dynasty after defeating all of his enemies in trying to reunite China.

To honor Hian Thian Siang Te’s accomplishments, merits and gratitude for His protection, Zhu Yuan Zhang then built a temple of honor to Hian Thian Siang Te in the capital of Nan Jing (Nan King) and in Bu Tong San Mountain. Since then, Bu Tong San become a holy place for the Taoists. Also, the worship of Hian Thian Siang Te expanded throughout the country, and most temples in major cities honored Him, with image made from solid brass found up to present day. In addition, He is also regarded as the Protector of a Country/Nation.

During the regime of Zheng Cheng Gong in Taiwan, many Shang Di Gong temples were established, with the main purpose to uplift the image and authority of the government, and also to become the worship center for both the civil and army. Shang Di Miao temples spread all over the country since then, and amongst the biggest was in Tai Nan, Southern Taiwan, built during the Dutch colony.

Upon the fall of Zheng Cheng Gong’s regime, the Qing Dynasty from Manchu came into power, discrediting Shang Di Gong by claiming that He was actually a repented butcher. The political aim was to morally wipe out the remaining followers of the Ming Dynasty by exploiting tales from the Buddha’s teaching about a repented butcher who cut opened his stomach, removed its content, and then became the Buddha’s follower. The tortoise and snake being stepped were said to be the intestine and body organs of the butcher. Due to that, His rank was reduced to Butchery Protecting Deity. Following that, the building of Siong Te Bio temples were reduced, and there has been only one temple being built in Lao Gu Shi Miao, Tai Nan.

The emperors of Manchu era did indeed admired and honored Hian Thian Siang Te, and this was proven by the building of many temples solely to honor Hian Thian Siang Te within the Forbidden City’s complex, the Emperor Palace in Beijing, which is named Qin An Tian. Another was built in the Resting Palace in Cheng De.

Wu Dang Shan, a holy mountain of Taoists, located in Hu Bei Province, Central China. Since Tang Dynasty era, the temples had been started to be established there. But a massive construction was carried out the government of Emperor Yong Le during Ming Dynasty era. It is not surprised since Xuan Tian Shang di was appointed as the Kingdom’s Guardian Angle.

Among the temples there, the most well known was Yu Xu Gong {Giok Hi Kiong} with Beijing Palace style-building, located  in the Northwest of the main peak of Bu Tong San. Another one was Yu Zhen Gong which was built in the 15^th Yong Le Year, in the North foot of Bu Tong San. In this Temple there was homage & statue of Zhang San Feng {Thio Sam Hong], the founder of martial art of self-defense institution-Wu Dang [Bu Tong Pay} branch.

The most complete temple building was Zi Xiao Gong Temple which was located on the Northeast peak, constitutes a center of all series of House of worships in that mountain. Bronze statue Hian Thian Siang Tee, the sculpture of Master Ji (experienced sculptor from Korea who is very popular to foreign countries) placed here.  In this temple could be seen the symbol of Bu Tong Sam Mountain namely Turtle & Snake Statues. Those metal statues represented a turtle which was twisted tightly by a snake. It is said the snake intended to compel the turtle to vomit everything in its belly.

According to belief, such turtle originated from the stomach & the snake from the intestine of Zhen Wu that has changed its appearance. It was narrated that one upon a time in his meditation which was without eating and drinking, Zhen Wu felt his intestine and belly were quarreling. It seemed that a very extreme hunger caused both his body organ blamed each other. Zhen Wu realized if it was left, it could influence the tranquility his heart. In his annoyance, he split his belly and took out thesadi both organs, then threw them out to the grass behind him. Then as if nothing happened, he continued his meditation.

Stomach & intestine, since they everyday heard Zhen Wu recites holy verses of Taoism, gradually had magic power. Both then changed into turtle and snake, and then sneaked into going down the mountain to eat livestock and human being.  Zhen Wu that had become Deity was very fury for this incident. By riding cloud & unsheathed sword he went down the mountain.  His sword’s cut on the back of turtle left scars to present. As since, on the back of turtle were seen scars like sword’s cut. With magic power rope he tied the neck of snake, so that as since the snake’s necks is smaller that its body.

After being conquered, turtle & snake had the Er Jiang position meaning “Two Commanders” and become seat foundation of Zhen Wu Da Di. But, the turtle seemed like still having invisible character. It was recognized by Zhen Wu, he then asked the snake to twist turtle’s body tightly, in order that all objects it swallowed to be vomited again & in order to reveal all crimes that it had ever committed. Up to now, these turtle & snake statues still exist in the rear space of Zi Xiao Gong temple & then it was made logo symbolizing Bu Tong San Mountain.

There was still any 1 the important relic that has relation to Hian Thian Sian Tee, namely a well named Mo Zhen Jing  (a well, the place to sharpen needle). It is reported when Zhen Wu was holding meditation in this mountain, his heart loosened. He then decided to leave that place.  Arrived at the edge of this well, he saw an old woman was sharpening iron pestle. Zhen Wu was surprised, then asked what the intention of the old woman to sharpen the iron pestle. Laughingly, the old woman said that she was sharpening a pestle to make needle for embroidery. Hearing the answer, Zhen Wu just realized the intention behind the old woman’s words. Immediately he went back to the mountain to continue his meditation. The name Mo Zhen Jing, was then being famous. Presently, near the well is built a rangon and statue of old woman is sharpening pestle.

In relation to these turtle & snake, the entrepreneurs of bamboo raft in Taiwan & Hong Kong worshipped to Hian Thian Siang Tee, in order that turtles and snakes in rivers were not courageous to cause wave & rolling wave to threaten their business. In addition to in Taiwan and Hong Kong, worship to Hian Thian Siang Tee has spread to Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia Singapore and Indonesia. In Singapore, Wak Hai Cheng Bio Temple in Philip Street is famed for worship to Hian Thian Siang Tee. In Indonesia, nearly every temple provides altar for him.

It is said, the first Hian Thian Siang Tee Temple in Indonesia is Welahan Temple, Central Java. In Semarang, most of temples provide special altars for him. Meanwhile the temple that is specially for Hoan Thian Siang Tee worship as a host is Gerajen & Bugangan Temples

Hian Thian Siang Tee (Zhen Wu Da Di/Cin Bu Tay Tee) is presented as a deity who is wearing golden war cloth by unsheathing a devil conquering sword, both of his without shoes-feet stepped on turtle and snake.

The birthday of Hian Thian Siang Te is commemorated on the 25^th of the 2^nd month of Lunar year.

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Buddhist Temple Jindeyuan Jakarta

Hian Thian Siang Te - Dewa Langit Utara

普賢菩薩Pu Xian Pu Sa, in Sanskrit is also known as Samanta Bhadra Bodhisattva, which means Universal Kindness. Pu Xian Pu Sa manifests from love, kindness, diligence, patience, and holiness. In Chinese Gods’ tale, Pu Xian Pu Sa is seen in a group of three, along with 觀音菩薩 Guan Yin Pu Sa (Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva) and 文殊菩薩 Wen Su Pu Sa. But in some Chinese and Japanese’s temples, Pu Xian Pu Sa is also often spotted with Sakyamuni Buddha and Wen Su Pu Sa. Pu Xian Pu Sa in Japanese is known as Fu Gen.

The image of Pu Xian Pu Sa is commonly seen seating on a white elephant, holding a white lotus or a roll of holy script. The white elephant is normally either in a standing or bending position, sometimes with 1, 3, or even 6 tusks.

Pu Xian Pu Sa is famous for His unboundless offerings and 10 Divine Vows, presented to all Buddhas, and beings in the suffering realms. The vows are:

1. To honor the Buddha
2. To honor Tatagatha
3. To present great homage to all Buddhas
4. To admit sins committed in previous lifetime, and do good deeds
5. To be joyful in others’ wisdom and kindness
6. To wish for the Buddha to spread His teachings (Dhamma)
7. To wish for the Buddha to always remain in the world
8. To learn and understand the Dhamma, and eventually, pass it on (teach)
9. To aid being in the suffering realms
10. To dedicate/pass on the merits to others.

In 普賢菩薩蓮花經 Pu Xian Pu Sa Lotus Sutra, Lord Buddha praises and announces that Pu Xian Pu Sa is born in the Eastern Pure Land. In addition, Lord Buddha also describes as follows:

Pu Xian Pu Sa has a huge and boundless body. But due to His wish to descent to the saha world to free beings from sufferings, He transformed into an ordinary (human) being. He appears riding a white elephant. Underneath the elephant feet, white lotuses bloom. This elephant has the brightest and whitest of all whites that not even crystals or the summit of the Himalaya can outmatch…

This Pu Xian Pu Sa Lotus Sutra attracts many people, especially the female, because they are assured of attaining the level of Buddhahood.

Pu Xian Pu Sa’s Pure Land is situated at E Mei Shan (Go Bi San) Mountain in Xi Chuan province, which is one of the four sacred mountains in Chinese Buddhism. In Japan, He is mostly honored by His followers for obtaining prosperity and longevity, and even regarded as a healer or protector from illness.

The image of  Pu Xian Pu Sa can be found in temples that worship Kwan Im (Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva), and the birthday of Pu Xian Pu Sa is honored on the 21^st of the second month of Lunar year.

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Buddhist Temple Jindeyuan Jakarta

Pho Hien Pho Sat – Bodhisatva Samanta Bhadra

The member of religious community often ask: “Is Kwan Im Pho Sat male of female actually ???” There were some who answered Kwan Im Pho Sat was actually a male. But many of them also answered Kwan Im Pho Sat was a female.

In reality, the holiness level of Bodhisatva has been greater than the different shape of male – female, beautiful– bad, old – young, rich– poor, and noble– contemptible, and so on. In other word, the holiness level of Bodhisatva has eliminated different appearance of male or female. Bodhisatva could adjust himself with the change of condition. Bodhisatva could change appearance into something suitable for the person who requests his assistance.

Then, Kwan Im Pho Sat could be in the nature of male, as well as female. This all are based on the necessity of human being who requires his/ her help.

Long time before Buddhism was disseminated from India to China, in Ancient China there had been belief to a compassionate Goddess with the appearance wearing white robe. When entered China during Han Dynasty [206 B.C. – 220 A.N.), Buddhism introduced Bodhisatva Avalokitesvara (then it was known as Kwan Im Pho Sat) as a male. Commencing from Tang Dynasty era [618 – 907 A.N.] and Five Dynasty [ 907 – 960 M ], Kwan Im was appeared as a female. It was probably influenced by Confucianism that had been deeply rooted in social system at that time. They considered it was not feasible if a woman requested a child from a Male God. For her followers, it was considered as a wish of Kwan Im alone to realize herself as a female, in order that she could act at her own discretion with the woman whom mostly requested for her helps.

Apparently, this change occurred gradually. At first, Kwan Im was featured as a spouse of Avalokitesvara (likewise Gods from India whom always have spouses). Slowly but surely her followers in China started to forget male God, Avalokitesvara. In the 12^th century of anno domini, Kwan Im had been adored separately as Chinese-typical God, similarly other Buddhist Gods.

Prior to the entry of Buddhism to China, the women there had honored much the Goddess of Taoism whom they called with the title Niang Niang {Hok Kian = Nio Nio }, as the place where they requested protection, safety & descent. Therefore, when Guan Yin came out, they called also her with the title Niang Niang. The title of Guan Yin Pu Sa {Hok Kian = Kwan Im Pho Sat} that totally had the characteristic of Buddhism, in the circle of Chinese people was finally known as the title of Guan Yin Niang Niang {Kwan Im Nio Nio}.

Moreover, the followers of Taoism eventually also respected, even placed her equally to their Goddess, namely Tian Hou Sheng Mu (Tian Shang Sheng Mu). The name of Taoism for Guan Yin is Zi Hang Dao Ren {Cu Hang To Jin} meaning that the God of Shipping Savior.

That was Guan Yin obtained her popularity that far more exceeding the highest Buddhism God– Buddhist Sakyamuni Buddha, even though in many temples & monastery (wihara), Buddhist Sakyamuni sit on the most honorable altar.

E.T.C. Werner in his book Myths and Legends of China mentions Goddess of Kwan Im as a Buddhist Savior. Quotation from the said book on the people’s belief to Goddess of Kwan Im is as follows:

She was called Guan Yin since she was willing to hear lamentation of world & gave assistance. She obtained the title of Buddha who expelled the feeling of fear. If the name of Guan Yinwas mentioned amidst the blazing fire, then the fire would burn. If her name was mentioned amidst the breakers that were as high as mountain, then such water would become shallow. If a boat crew which was being hit by the big wave mentioned the name of Guan Yin the Merciful, the he would save to his destination. Amidst the jingling sound of sword & spear in the field of war, if mentioned the name of Guan Yin he would escape from the death. If any devil entering into your soul, mention the name of Guan Yin, then you would obtain peace and & spiritual peace.

Desire of anger & hate would disappear if her name was uttered. Someone who suffered from memory defect would recover if he prayed with full of sincerity to Guan Yin. Guan Yin the Beneficent & the Merciful would grant a child for mothers who wished him, a handsome son and a beautiful girl. Someone who mentioned the names of 6,200.000 Buddha or in large amount like the sand of Gangga River, it was equal to other person who only pronounced the name of Guan Yin simply once. Guan Yin could appear in the appearance of Buddha, Prince, Buddhist Monk, Student, old grandmother, and soon. He could go to any country, to disseminate the holy teachings all over the world.

Such was a Compassionate Goddess of China’s origin白衣大士 (Pek Ie Tai Su) unified in Avalokitesvara, it makes typical Chinese Buddhist Gods, even its Indian special characteristic has totally lost. The History of Miao Shan Princess who considerably dedicated to the parents was a reflection of the story of Buddha Gautama, in which he left secularism to become a hermit and become perfect in Pu To Shan mount.

Kwan Im figure that is closer to all level of society made him very popular even exceeding Buddha Gautama himself. In his appearance as Chien Chiu Koan Im (one Thousand Hand – Kwan Im), he was esoterically as if the God Almighty, since he was able to grant all requests of His followers.

Kwan Im Hut Co was widely known as a Compassionate Goddess, who was adored  not only in the circle of Buddhist only but also in the circle of Taoism and all levels of common society in various countries mainly in Asia Continent.

Let’s take into account, in every (Chinese) Temple of Buddhist place of worship, whoever becoming the Host [for example Xian Tan Gong 玄壇公, Di Zang Wang 地藏王, Ma Zhu 媽祖, Guan Gong 關公 , Qing Yuan Zhen Jun 清元真君, etc ] there must be a special altar to respect Kwan Im Hut Co ! Why is so? It is because His Great Compassionate (大慈大悲). Then he was called Guan Shi Yin. Even the Western also knows him as Goddess of Mercy !!!

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Buddhist Temple Jindeyuan Jakarta

Kwan Im Pho Sat – Pria Atau Wanita