Traditional Chinese religion was a blend of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and folk practices. The folk practices included divination and the worship of a variety of gods at local temples. When Chinese immigrants came to the United States they brought their religion with them. In Butte, one of the important institutions in Chinatown was the local temple, sometimes called the “joss house.”
Shown above is a drawing of Kuan Ti, the God of War. This was a popular deity in China and was worshiped and consulted in important decisions.
Shown above is a drawing of the Kitchen God which was revered in many Chinese homes. He was responsible for controlling the abundance or shortage of food. Offering to the Kitchen God included meat, fruit, wine, and paper money. At New Years, the Kitchen God would be thanked and asked for blessing in the year to come.
Shown above is the household god Kwan Gung (Guan Yu) which is now housed in one of the small rooms (offices) of the Mai Wah building.
Shown above is the Laughing Buddha (Pu-Tai). Figures of the Laughing Buddha embody the ideals of the good life—health, happiness, prosperity, and longevity. According to some scholars, the Laughing Buddha was modeled after an historical figure: a fat wandering Zen monk named Pu-tai. According to the Mai Wah museum display:
“Laughing Buddha is the ultimate symbol of happiness. He lays the role to take away your problems, worries, stress, anger, pressure and sadness. Laughing Buddha also brings wonderful fortune, prosperity and wealth to household, office and business.”
In 1842 China had opened its doors to missionaries and as a result both Catholic and Protestant missions had opened in many parts of the country. Some of the Chinese who came to the United States were already Christian and others converted to Christianity after their arrival.
Ancestor Worship:
Shown above is a Chinese altar. Shrines or spirit houses, like the one shown above were found in both homes and shops. The spirit houses, called Ti Ju Eia, were painted red with gold decorations. Storeowners would place these shrines in their shops to protect their properties and ward off bad spirits. According to the Mai Wah museum display:
“Ancestor worship is very important in China, because like many people around the world, the Chinese believe that their ancestors take an active part in the lives of the living. Ancestors are like guardian spirits. They are believed to bring prosperity, health and good luck to the family.”
Welcome to Street Prophets Saturday, an open thread at the corner of Politics and Religion. This is a space to share what's on your mind. Photos and discussions of dinner are welcome.