Deities and Faith
What remote worship did Sheng Zhen Men propose when temple visits were difficult?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
During the pandemic, we proposed staff holding a video call before statues so people unable to attend could look and express intentions themselves. This offered continued closeness to faith.
Incense and seeing statues ordinarily support connection. When usual worship became difficult, we explored cameras and voice to convey familiar deities and atmosphere to those needing them.
Online consultation, conversation, and learning were also discussed as responses to change. Faith’s expression can adapt so support remains available.
People without a particular problem could still see the Bodhisattva and seek calm. Video allowed updates and difficulties, with local assistance offering incense, spirit paper, or moon blocks. This companionship did not require inventing a problem.
Recordings and texts also helped those missing broadcasts. Some only partly understood Taiwanese, and YOYO’s subtitles and writing offered fuller reading. Religiously, serious contact with divine principles also connects. Understanding matters beyond catching a broadcast live.
Convenient video does not create identical feelings to attendance. YOYO and I compared concerts: listening at home differs from the stage and fellow fans. Seeing statues in a temple and sharing intention brings personal participation.
In my energy understanding, personal views, immediate environment, and shared atmosphere all contribute. YOYO felt video remained useful while attendance made the whole atmosphere easier to sense. Remote access supports those unable to come without requiring identical connection or feelings.