Thian Hock Keng, a temple like no other
Singapore, an independent city-state off the southern borders of the Malay peninsula, lays claim to a vivid and eventful history. Its modern history began with the establishment of a trading post by Sir Stamford Raffles for the British East India Company in 1819. A vital port on the spice route, Singapore eventually became one of the most significant military and commercial hubs of the British empire. After achieving independence Singapore has prospered, with foreign investment and momentum towards industrialization making it one of the wealthiest nations in the world today. Singapore is also a magnet for tourists, with its renowned shopping opportunities, unique cuisine and cosmopolitan image attracting a multitude of foreign visitors.
Thian Hock Keng holds an important position as one of the most significant and most ancient Hokkien temples in Singapore. It was originally a site where Chinese migrants expressed their gratitude to Ma Zu, goddess of the sea, for their safe passage. The temple proper was constructed by the Hokkien clan in 1839, and the building also contained the clan’s office and functioned as a meeting site. The various facets of the temple’s past are inscribed in granite tablets inside the building’s Entrance Hall. A plaque gifted by Emperor Guang Xu of the Qing dynasty, proof of the temple’s importance, is also to be seen.
The temple is constructed in conventional southern Chinese manner, the whole structure being free of nails. A masterwork of tiles, wood and stone, the temple contains phoenixes and dragons, huge columns, ornate sculptures and fascinating carvings. Every effort was made in the construction of the temple to maintain its esteemed status by using only the finest materials from China.
Thian Hock Keng features an imposing main entrance, while the side entrances have vividly coloured tiles depicting the Buddhist swastika, roses and peacocks. In typical Taoist fashion sculpted door gods, lions and tigers guard the doors. In addition to the main temple the complex includes two courtyards and two pagodas, one dedicated to Confucius.
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Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Article Source: