Beizhen Temple Introduction
Xuantianshangdi, commonly referred to as "Shangdi Gong," is also known as "Beijixing Xuantianshangdi" or "Xuanwu Dadi." Since ancient times, the Chinese have referred to the "Four Symbols" as "East Azure Dragon, West White Tiger, South Vermilion Bird, and North Xuanwu." Additionally, due to Taiwan's location in the Northern Hemisphere and the habit of facing south, directions are often given as left, right, front, and back instead of east, west, south, and north. Xuantianshangdi is associated with the North Star, so temples are generally built on the northern side of towns and cities. The Beizhen Temple honors Shangdi Gong as the deity of the Houpu Beimen region. It was renovated in the 73rd year of the Republic of China and rebuilt to its current appearance in the 89th year of the Republic of China. The couplets include: Main entrance couplet: "Screen opens to the majestic peaks of Taiwu; Seat leans against the heavenly constellations." Left side entrance couplet: "Tracing back to Wudang, Wuzhou is first; True teachings are grounded in the northern boundary." Right side entrance couplet: "Divine intent opens the universe, promoting imperial virtue; Achievements maintain the golden thresholds, protecting the village." Front hall pillar couplet: "Waters are the source of the fiery sea; Divine might shines bright in the southern sky." Left hall pillar couplet: "Position maintains the northern boundary, demonic disturbances cease to exist; Divine powers govern waters, the universe is gentle." Right hall pillar couplet: "Might stabilizes the southwest, the holy master blesses the people and bestows titles; In reverence of the North Pole Emperor, true virtue resides in high place." Inner hall pillar couplet: "Swords strike wind and thunder, the world stirs; Flags wave over the sea and mountains, divine spirits admire." Inner hall pillar couplet: "With thirty-six practices one attains virtue; Through seventy-two transformations, one subdues turtles and snakes." Niche pillar couplet: "Virtue aligns with the celestial pivot, illuminating the emperor's seat; Square symbols and hexagrams protect the dwellings of the people."
