Liudui Zhongyi Shrine Introduction
Zhongyi Temple is a memorial dedicated to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect their homeland and families, serving as a spiritual fortress for the Hakka people of LiuDui. The LiuDui militia, which was formed in the 60th year of the Kangxi reign (1721 AD) to quell the Zhu Yigui incident, engaged in fierce resistance against the Japanese takeover of Taiwan in 1895, creating a poignant history over 174 years. The couplets at the main entrance read: "Loyalty shines like the sun and moon, righteousness strengthens the mountains and rivers," while the couplets at the altar say: "The hero of the Guangdong region saved the nation and protected the people, their achievements are everlasting; the loyalty of LiuDui is remarkable and leaves a lasting legacy." The spirit of these brave souls resonates deeply, embodying the everlasting loyalty and righteousness cherished through the ages. This remarkable history reflects the glorious achievements of Taiwan and represents the spirit of loyalty and bravery among the Hakka people, serving as a living testament to local cultural pride. Visitors to LiuDui should not forget to come and pay their respects, appreciating the values of loyalty to the nation and praying for peace and health. During the Japanese colonial period, the Japanese sought to win over the LiuDui villagers in hopes that they would pledge loyalty to the Emperor. Initially, they did not prohibit the locals from performing ancestral worship and even sent high-ranking officials to participate in ceremonies. However, they were unable to quell the rising anti-Japanese sentiment among the LiuDui people. After attempts to integrate failed, the Japanese military resorted to oppressive measures, closing Zhongyi Pavilion and banning residents from worshipping their ancestors, leading to its maintenance challenges. Under Japanese oppression, the LiuDui villagers endured long-term persecution, hoping only to preserve Zhongyi Pavilion. Fortunately, after Taiwan's restoration, with the efforts of local figures in LiuDui, Zhongyi Pavilion was finally reconstructed in the 47th year of the Republic of China (1958 AD) and renamed "Zhongyi Temple." Besides honoring the Hakka heroes who quelled banditry at the end of the Kangxi reign, it also commemorates the martyrs from various uprisings during the Yongzheng, Qianlong, Daoguang, and Guangxu reigns, and all those who sacrificed their lives resisting foreign invaders. For the Hakka residents of LiuDui, Zhongyi Temple is not just a place of worship; it is also a sacred hall for oath-taking before expeditions and has become a spiritual stronghold for the Hakka people of LiuDui. Zhongyi Temple holds grand ceremonies in spring and autumn each year and simultaneously organizes the LiuDui Sports Conference, hoping to perpetuate the spirit of "protecting hometown and people, fulfilling loyalty and righteousness" for generations to come.
