Beijing has been a focal point for China's most important religious observances since it become the country's capital in 1420. Of all the temples built to worship the mighty forces in nature, the Temple of Heaven in southern Beijing is easily the most significant one.
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.
As you enter this tremendous temple, a mysterious world once closed off from the average person is now ready to show all its mystery.
The Hall of Abstinence is on the west side. The emperor used this area to prepare himself for the prayers to Heaven. He would keep himself away from alcohol, meat, garlic, onions, and sexual relations. The hall was kept simple, for a luxury-loving emperor wouldn't be favored by Heaven.
On the east side of the complex are the Animal Slaughtering Hall and Divine Kitchen. Sacrificial animals such as sheep, cattle, and pigs used to be slaughtered and prepared in these two halls. It would take many workers several days to prepare all of the food.
Also, music was essential to the ceremonies. In the hall of Divine Music Administration, imperial orchestras practiced compositions day and night so that no mistake was made when the rituals were held.
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.
Soon you'll be standing before the Circular Altar, the most significant structure in the temple. The altar was built to worship Heaven. You can't miss taking a picture here, for it was believed to be the center of the universe.
During the worshiping ceremonies held on the winter solstice, the emperor would bow down to receive his mandate from Heaven to rule China. A Chinese philosopher once wrote: if the ruler does things right, then the creative energy of the universe will be harmonious, the wind and rain will be on time, auspicious stars will show up, and then, the yellow dragon will descend from Heaven.
Now with the mandate from Heaven, the emperor is able to legitimately rule China.
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.
As you enter this tremendous temple, a mysterious world once closed off from the average person is now ready to show all its mystery.
The Hall of Abstinence is on the west side. The emperor used this area to prepare himself for the prayers to Heaven. He would keep himself away from alcohol, meat, garlic, onions, and sexual relations. The hall was kept simple, for a luxury-loving emperor wouldn't be favored by Heaven.
On the east side of the complex are the Animal Slaughtering Hall and Divine Kitchen. Sacrificial animals such as sheep, cattle, and pigs used to be slaughtered and prepared in these two halls. It would take many workers several days to prepare all of the food.
Also, music was essential to the ceremonies. In the hall of Divine Music Administration, imperial orchestras practiced compositions day and night so that no mistake was made when the rituals were held.
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.
Soon you'll be standing before the Circular Altar, the most significant structure in the temple. The altar was built to worship Heaven. You can't miss taking a picture here, for it was believed to be the center of the universe.
During the worshiping ceremonies held on the winter solstice, the emperor would bow down to receive his mandate from Heaven to rule China. A Chinese philosopher once wrote: if the ruler does things right, then the creative energy of the universe will be harmonious, the wind and rain will be on time, auspicious stars will show up, and then, the yellow dragon will descend from Heaven.
Now with the mandate from Heaven, the emperor is able to legitimately rule China.
About the Author:
D. Cheng has been writing about attractions and cheap hotels in Beijing for several years. Go to his site to know more about accomodation in Beijing, China.
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