It's not like I've never been to a temple before, but it was for the first time, in a long time since I've been to one. I've never been to a temple for about 2 years after I became a Christian.
In 1839, the
Hokkien clan built the temple in Telok Ayer Street. It also housed the clan's
office and served as a meeting venue. The details of the temple’s history are recorded in granite
tablets on the wall inside the Entrance Hall.
This temple is one of the oldest temple in Singapore. It
was visited by Chinese immigrants giving thanks to Ma Zu (Goddess of the Sea)
for their safe voyage.
Thian Hock Keng was gazetted as a national
monument in 1973. Over the years, Thian Hock Keng has been restored several
times.
No doubt was it interesting, I've learnt quite a bit about the temple, its history as well as the two generals who were revered by many. For me who grew up in a Buddhist family, knowing the rules and showing respect to the religion were not something unusual.
However, in my group, not everyone grew up with a Buddhist background.
As a Buddhist, you're supposed to be careful about what you step on, what you say and what you do, especially in a temple.
As we "chiong-ed" for our first station, we forgot about how we were supposed to be sensitive as we visited the place of worship. For example, we stepped on the so-called "holy ground" which were meant for people to worship and pray to the Mazu. I think we got hissed at for that.
We were also very loud because we shouted, quite excitedly, across the court as we wanted to take a picture with the two generals. That wasn't very nice of us.
I would say that this heritage trail has made me learn how to be sensitive to all races and religion and realize that this world doesn't revolve around myself.
-GinGin
-GinGin
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