Why are written petitions used in religious activities, and what do opening and closing reports mean?

A written petition formally explains the activity, participants, and requests to deities. Sheng Zhen Men reports before departure to seek safety and afterward identifies contributors, hoping they receive blessings and recognition. Like official documents in human affairs, it has a communicative purpose.

When an unfamiliar ritual's purpose is unclear, first watch, listen, and ask. A child not ready to drive may not understand driving simply from hearing how to press the accelerator. Some understanding develops through experience and learning. One observed action does not warrant a hasty conclusion.

Early in corporate mailroom work, I delivered many official documents. I wondered why requests needed submission, instructions, and delegation rather than direct speech. Later I understood that records show superiors what is requested and those implementing it what to do. This experience helps explain clearly writing activities and requests in petitions.

Some interpreted reporting participants' names as shifting responsibility onto everyone. The intention was to seek safety beforehand and afterward acknowledge whose shared efforts brought completion. Hoping everyone receives blessings and recognition differs from evading responsibility. Understanding both stages reduces misunderstanding.

Two petitions before a ceremony also serve different purposes. The first states the planned rite and why it is held, requesting divine blessings for the altar. The second details its focus, participants, roster, and specific prayers. After informing and elaborating, the ceremony proceeds. This is not pointless repetition.