Exhibition 'Between Thoughts' Opens at Wangchuan Cultural Center, Guiding Public Reflection on Life Choices

The Wangchuan Cultural Center in Pingtung has unveiled its latest exhibition, "Between Thoughts," the third installment of its "Seven Horns Series." This exhibition delves into the profound Chenghuang (City God) faith of the Xiatojiao community, offering a unique glimpse into the deity's intricate administrative system, the "Twenty-Four Divisions." This initiative by the Pingtung County Government, in collaboration with the Donggang Dongfu Palace Chenghuang Temple and local Xiatojiao groups, seeks to illuminate the cultural tapestry of the region.

Central to the exhibition is the figure of the Chenghuang, the City God who presides over the underworld and maintains order. The "Twenty-Four Divisions" represent the various departments under his command, each responsible for different aspects of spiritual administration. By presenting this complex system, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on their own life choices and the moral decisions they face, drawing parallels between earthly governance and the divine judgment.

“

The Chenghuang governs the order of the underworld and has established the Twenty-Four Divisions to manage various underworld affairs. Through the exhibition, we guide the public to contemplate life choices, and I believe it will bring insights and reflections on different levels.

The opening ceremony itself was a spectacle, with the Chenghuang and his Twenty-Four Divisions parading from Donggang Dongfu Palace to the Cultural Center, recreating the grandeur of the traditional "Welcoming the King" (Ying Wang) ceremonies. This vibrant display underscores the living nature of these traditions, which are not merely historical relics but active components of community life. The exhibition's design, guiding visitors "from outside to inside," symbolizes the journey of self-reflection and understanding.

As a publication based in Taiwan, Liberty Times recognizes the deep-rooted significance of such cultural events. While international media might focus on broader economic or political news, exhibitions like "Between Thoughts" offer invaluable insights into the spiritual and social fabric of Taiwanese society. They highlight how traditional beliefs continue to shape individual lives and community identity, providing a local perspective that enriches our understanding of the island's cultural heritage. The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of faith and tradition in guiding human conduct and fostering a sense of shared values.

“

Donggang's Chenghuang faith is profound. In the past, the Chenghuang's birthday was as lively as a "mini Ying Wang" in Donggang, with every household hosting relatives and friends. Since 1952, the Chenghuang instructed local youths to dress up as the "Twenty-Four Divisions" to participate in the Ying Wang ceremony, which has become a local honor and continues to this day.