Deities and Faith
Does a deity leaving a temple to conduct work mean outside spirits will necessarily take over?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Hearing that a deity has gone out to conduct work does not establish that outside spirits must occupy the temple. I have discussed this online claim and do not agree with it. A person leaving home does not mean criminals immediately move in. Likewise, 'temporarily absent' cannot directly become 'certainly overrun.'
This does not mean every temple or religious worker is without problems. In that discussion, I also acknowledged that some people may indeed depart from a sound path and do wrong. What needs understanding is how the place actually treats people and handles matters. One frightening claim cannot justify the same judgment of every temple.
People without spiritual perceptions can also observe whether someone is compassionate and willing to explain principles, or continually stirs up desire. Claims that everyone can become wealthy through blessings deserve further thought. I regard divine protection as assistance; human effort and practical action still matter. When considering faith, do not abandon what you can observe and judge for yourself.