Erjie Wang Gong Temple Introduction
The Erjie Wanggong Temple has a history of over 200 years, originally named Zhen'an Temple. It is known for a historic event where a large-scale temple relocation was conducted, showcasing the significance of the temple to the local residents. Today, a new temple has been built next to the old one, which has been transformed into the Erjie Cultural Center, housing ancient artifacts used in ceremonies, exquisitely carved beams and columns, and the temple's history, making it an important cultural asset in Yilan. The Erjie Wanggong Temple primarily worships the Three Kings of Gugu, who were leaders of righteous troops that resisted the Mongol invasion during the Southern Song Dynasty. During the Qing Dynasty, they were brought by the people who crossed the sea to Taiwan and are now enshrined in what is today Erjie, Yilan County. The grand Wanggong Birthday Celebration is held annually on the 15th day of the 11th lunar month. Among the rituals, the fire-walking ceremony is the largest of its kind in Taiwan. Hot charcoal is sprinkled with salt and rice, and devotees carry the palanquin of the deity, walking barefoot over the smoking charcoal as a means of removing bad luck and offering prayers. In addition to the fire-walking, there are also rituals such as the "Child Divination" and expressions of gratitude to the deities of heaven. These rituals embody local characteristics and religious purity, and they are promoted in the form of cultural festivals, showcasing traditional folk performances and opera, attracting people from various places to participate in this grand religious celebration.
