Taiwan's 'Ghost Month' Sees Busy Deity Overseeing Spirits

In Taiwan, the seventh month of the lunar calendar, known as "Ghost Month," is a period when temples across the island conduct rituals to appease wandering spirits, often referred to as "good spirits" or "hungry ghosts."

However, in Beidou, Changhua County, a unique situation unfolds at the Sanjiao Pudu Gong Temple. Its main deity, "Pudu Gong" (also known as Da Shi Ye), is tasked with the critical responsibility of managing and restraining these spirits, ensuring order during the appeasement ceremonies. This makes Pudu Gong arguably the busiest deity during Ghost Month.

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The Pudu Gong's duty is to manage and restrain the 'good spirits' and maintain order during the Pudu rituals, so every Ghost Month, he is invited by believers from all over to 'Jian Pu' at the rituals.

According to temple chairman Zhang Zhongyi, Pudu Gong's divine efficacy means he is frequently requested by neighboring temples and followers to attend their rituals. These invitations are to "Jian Pu," which translates to "overseeing the ritual" or acting as a chief judge. During these "outings," the deity's shrine is adorned with paper money, signifying that the deity is on official duty.

Zhang Zhongyi further explains that "Jian Pu" involves Pudu Gong presiding over the ritual, supervising the ceremonies, and guiding the spirits to partake in offerings without causing chaos or disputes. This ensures the smooth and successful completion of the Pudu rituals. The frequent "collective departure" of deities from the Beidou temple during this period underscores the significant role Pudu Gong plays in maintaining spiritual harmony during this culturally sensitive time.

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'Jian Pu' means that Pudu Gong presides over the Pudu altar, acting as the 'chief judge' of the ritual. In addition to supervising the sacrificial ceremony, he is also responsible for maintaining order at the scene, guiding the 'good spirits' and unseen beings who come to accept offerings to enjoy the sacrificial items, preventing disputes or chaos, and ensuring that the entire Pudu ritual is successfully and perfectly completed.