A Beginner's Guide to Taiwanese Temples: Praying and Moon Blocks

Taiwan's temples are not quiet, somber places. They are vibrant community centers filled with smoke, chanting, and the clattering sound of wooden blocks hitting the floor. Visiting a temple is a profound cultural experience, but the myriad of gods, incense sticks, and unwritten rules can be overwhelming.

Here is your beginner's guide to navigating a Taiwanese temple without offending the gods (or the locals).

Step 1: Entering the Temple

The Dragon and Tiger Doors Always enter through the "Dragon Door" (your right side when facing the temple) and exit through the "Tiger Door" (your left side). Why? Because the dragon is auspicious, and you want to enter with good luck and avoid walking "into the tiger's mouth." Never step on the wooden threshold of the door; always step over it.

Step 2: The Order of Praying

Most temples have a specific sequence, usually marked by numbers on the incense cauldrons.

1. The Sky God (Tiangong): Usually, the first cauldron faces outward toward the sky. You pray to the Jade Emperor first.
2. The Main Deity: Next, pray to the main god of the temple (situated in the very center).
3. The Side Deities: Finally, move to the side halls, usually starting from the right side (from your perspective looking in) to the left.

What to say: In your mind, state your name, date of birth (lunar is best, but Gregorian works), address, and your wish or question.

Step 3: Bwa Bwei (Throwing the Moon Blocks)

If you have a question for the gods, you must use the "Jiao" (moon blocks). These are two crescent-shaped wooden blocks, curved on one side and flat on the other.

Hold them in your hands, state your name, details, and a clear "Yes or No" question. Then drop them on the floor:

• One flat, one curved (Sheng Jiao): The answer is YES.
• Both flat sides up (Xiao Jiao): The gods are laughing (the answer is unclear or the question is moot).
• Both curved sides up (Yin Jiao): The answer is NO.

Step 4: Asking for an Oracle Box (Qiu Qian)

Want life advice?

1. Ask the main deity (via the moon blocks) if they are willing to give you a poem. You need a "Yes" (Sheng Jiao).
2. Go to the bamboo cylinder full of numbered sticks. Shake it until one stick sits higher than the rest, or just pull one out. Note the number.
3. Throw the moon blocks again and ask: "Is this the correct stick?" You usually need three consecutive "Yes" throws to confirm.
4. Once confirmed, go to the wall of wooden drawers and pull out the paper slip matching your stick's number.

Pro Tip: Many major temples (like Lungshan Temple) have QR codes or English volunteers to help you translate the ancient poetic Chinese into modern advice!