TEMPLE MAN MO

The Man Mo Temple is the largest temple on Hong Kong Island. Built in 1847, this Taoist temple is dedicated to two major deities: Man, the civil god of literature, and Mo, the god of martial arts, war and righteousness. Mo, also known as Guanyu, is revered as the protector of restaurateurs, policemen, pawnbrokers and the Triads. It is customary not to step on the step at the entrance to temples, as it is believed to ward off evil spirits. Stepping on the step is a common practice to avoid bad luck. Inside, the atmosphere is permeated by incense smoke rising from spirals suspended from the ceiling. Some are so large that they burn for four weeks! Devotees come here to pray for the success of their studies, the success of their children, the peace and prosperity of a restaurant or business.

The temple actually comprises three distinct sections:

The Man Mo Temple, the largest and on the left, is where the faithful pray to the gods of literature and war.

Lit Shing Kung, in the center, is dedicated to all other celestial gods.

The Kung Sor, on the right, was once a community meeting place, where people gathered to settle disputes and neighborly affairs.

Prayer rituals. Typical offerings include incense sticks, paper offerings, lettuce symbolizing wealth, longevity moss sticks and fruit. Round fruit and Chinese mandarins are particularly prized for bringing good luck. A common prayer practice is to light three incense sticks to wish the deities well: the number "three" symbolizes balance and harmony. After lighting the sticks, the worshipper turns towards the altar, closes his or her eyes and mentally formulates his or her wishes. He or she then bows his or her head slightly as a sign of respect, before planting the lit incense in one of the bronze burners. This action symbolizes the connection between humans and deities, as the rising smoke carries prayers to heaven. It is also customary to make three prostrations in homage to the gods, an ancient gesture of reverence.

Man Mo Temple is one of Hong Kong's most famous temples, appearing in numerous films and attracting devotees and visitors alike, intrigued by its history, mystical atmosphere and architecture that contrasts with the surrounding buildings.