Cilong Temple Introduction
Introduction to Cihlung Temple Cihlung Temple primarily enshrines Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, with accompanying attendants Shancai and Liangnu, alongside the Earth God and the Goddess of Childbirth as secondary deities. This temple embodies a mixed folk belief in Buddhism and Taoism in Taiwan, originally named Guanyin Pavilion. The devotion began in the 41st year of the Qianlong era (1776), when ancestors from the Han Chinese community in mainland China brought the worship to Taiwan from Mount Putuo in Zhejiang. In the 39th year of the Meiji era (1906), a major earthquake struck Chiayi, leading to the collapse of Guanyin Pavilion. Consequently, individuals such as Ye Fa and Huang Xian initiated fundraising efforts for its reconstruction at the original site. By the 13th year of the Shōwa era (1938), during the Japanese government's promotion of the Kokumin Movement and Shinto beliefs, Guanyin Pavilion was merged with the Chenghuang Pavilion under the concept of "one street, one temple." In 1947, after donations from believers including Zeng Mu, the temple was rebuilt on its current site. The link between Lin Yushan, a master of traditional Chinese painting, and Cihlung Temple stems from the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, who decreed the temple's construction at the site, with local residents contributing resources to build it. Lin Yushan, living nearby and working as an art teacher at National Chiayi Senior High School, actively participated in the construction, particularly in painting and calligraphy within the temple. Among the five ink wash murals he created, all centered on animal themes symbolizing auspiciousness, these works are unique masterpieces and treasures in Taiwan; they represent the last set of works Lin Yushan completed before leaving Chiayi and are his only murals in a religious building. Description of the Wet Mural The wet mural at Cihlung Temple features walls made of bamboo and mud, structured with a bamboo frame. The clay (soil) is mixed with rice husks, straw, and glutinous rice as a binding agent. Once dried, it is smoothed with lime powder, and colorful paintings are applied before the outer lime layer dries, hence the term "wet mural." This method poses challenges as the work must be completed in a short time frame (before the lime dries), and the paint can easily permeate, with no room for correction or alteration. Introduction to Cihlung Temple's Wet Mural - Cloud Dragon: The spirit is alive, the earth and heavens supreme, the dragon brings auspiciousness, filling the world with blessings. - Receiving Heaven's Abundance: Receiving heaven's abundance means no lack of clothing or food, enriching one's life and achieving lifelong glory. - Eternal Feudal Rank: A lifetime of wealth and noble status, evergreen like pines and cypresses, bringing auspiciousness and fulfillment. - Bestowing Abundant Blessings: The immortal crane signals good fortune, embodying five complete blessings, representing longevity and abundant blessings from heaven. - Eight Galloping Horses: With the spirit of the eight steeds, success comes rapidly, symbolizing vitality and smooth sailing in all endeavors. Notes: Guided tours can be scheduled by calling 05-2774488.
