Cilong Temple Introduction
Cihlong Temple is dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva, accompanied by the deities of Shancai and Liangnv, and is also associated with the deity of Zhensheng Niangniang and Tudigong. It represents a folk belief that combines Buddhism and Taoism in Taiwan. Originally named Guanyin Pavilion, its worship began in the 41st year of the Qianlong period (1776), when ancestors from the Han ethnic group in mainland China brought the faith from Putuo Mountain, Zhejiang to Taiwan. In the 39th year of the Meiji period (1906), a significant earthquake occurred in Chiayi, destroying the Guanyin Pavilion. Local residents, including Ye Fa and Huang Xian, organized fundraising efforts to rebuild it on the original site. In the 13th year of the Showa period (1938), under the Japanese government's promotion of the Imperial citizenization movement and Shinto beliefs, the Guanyin Pavilion was merged into the Chenghuang Temple under the concept of "one street, one temple." In 1947, devotees, including Zeng Mu, raised funds to purchase the site and rebuild Cihlong Temple. The renowned Chinese watercolor master Lin Yushan had a connection with Cihlong Temple, as Guanyin Bodhisattva chose to build the temple at the current site, with local residents contributing funds and labor for its construction. Lin lived nearby and was a fine arts teacher at National Chiayi Senior High School at the time; he eagerly participated in painting and calligraphy within the temple. Among his contributions, he created five ink wash murals, all themed around animals, symbolizing good fortune. These are unique masterpieces and treasures, with the murals being the last works Lin produced before leaving Chiayi and are his only wet murals in a religious building. Wet murals (Cihlong Temple) utilize a bamboo frame covered with a mixture of clay (mud), rice husks, straw, and glutinous rice as a binding agent. The mixture is allowed to dry before being coated with lime powder for a smooth exterior, onto which painting occurs while the outer lime layer is still wet. This technique is known as wet murals. The challenge lies in completing the work before the lime dries, as the paint can easily seep, and it cannot be wiped or altered. Introduction to Cihlong Temple's wet murals: - Yunlong: Manifestation of spirit, supremacy of heaven and earth, dragon brings auspiciousness, blessings fill the world. - Shou Tian Bai Lu: Receiving blessings from the heavens, no lack in clothing and food, wealth and honor come, a life of prosperity. - Wannian Fenghou: Blessings and wealth last for ten thousand years, nobility and honor are conferred, evergreen pines and cypresses, auspiciousness and wishes come true. - Jiang Er Xia Fu: Celestial cranes signal auspicious signs, all five blessings complete, pines and cranes live long, extensive blessings under heaven. - Ba Jun Ma: Eight steeds in vigorous spirit, success comes swiftly, life flourishes, everything goes smoothly. Note: Guided tours can be arranged by calling 05-2774488.
