Deities and Faith
If temples have deities, why does Master Shengyuan also discuss unseen beings nearby?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Some unseen beings approach temples seeking divine help. In our religious understanding, temples center positive energy, and beings hoping for protection or deliverance may linger nearby. Their presence outside does not mean no deities are inside.
Some temples regularly hold deliverance ceremonies for connected local beings. Others have limited staff or hold ceremonies only on festivals, so arrangements differ. Knowing help is needed and having manpower and ability to provide it are separate matters.
In religious work, I have also sensed beings with regrets or uncertainty about where to go, needing divine guidance. Hearing 'wandering ghosts' should not make us regard all as bad. Understand their circumstances to appreciate why they seek help there.
We also understand nearby unseen beings through different needs, including seeking energy or assistance. Not all intend harm. Yet dizziness after leaving a temple alone cannot settle your own cause.
As for divine help, I have discussed reminders through people, messages in dreams, and cooperation between humans and deities. 'Deities never act first' cannot sum it all up. Circumstances, the individual's willingness, and someone actually investigating and assisting still matter.