The Temple Of Heaven In Beijing: A Short Ride From Your Hotel
Beijing has been the center of religious worship since the Ming dynasty emperor Yongle made it China’s capital. Of all the temples built to praise supernatural forces, the Temple of Heaven stands as the most impressive.
Running an empire that held the worlds largest population, the Chinese emperors couldn’t just rely on intimidation and an effective government. They had to rule by legitimacy from Heaven.
Once forbidden ground, the Temple of Heaven is now ready to welcome you in and reveal all its mystery.
Enter from the southern gate. First you’ll see the Hall of Abstinence on the west side. The hall was where the emperor would prepare himself for the sacred ceremonies. During his stay here, he would stay away from onions, garlic, alcohol, meat, and sexual relations. Because Heaven wouldn’t like an extravagant emperor, the furnishings here were kept as simple as possible.
The Animal Slaughtering Hall and the Divine Kitchen stand on the other side of the temple. Animals such as cattle, sheep, and pigs were slaughtered, and it took scores of workers several days to finish the work. As the emperor fasted in the Hall of Abstinence, the kitchen prepared all kinds of delicious offerings such as biscuits, sugarcane, bread, and dried fruits.
Music was also an important facet of all ceremonies in the Temple of Heaven. In the Hall of Divine Music Administration, imperial orchestras practiced compositions day and night. When rituals were held, they would play all throughout. Sometimes rituals lasts a whole day and into the night!
The number of antique instruments displayed in the hall is a big hit. And be sure to enjoy the mock performances, which are staged every two hours.
The Circular Altar, standing at the center of the temple, is the most important structure in the Temple of Heaven. A radial terrace, the altar was built for the emperor to worship Heaven. Dont skip your photo opportunity here, as in ancient China this was believed to be the center of the universe.
And this was where the emperor would bow on his knees to take vows and confirm his legitimacy to rule China. A Chinese philosopher once wrote:If the ruler is right, then the creative energy of the universe will be harmonious and compliant. The rain and wind will be timely. Auspicious stars will appear, and then, the yellow dragon will descend.
The ritual gave the emperor absolute power to rule his empire.
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