Pantheon of gods

 

G is easily associated with God, only in this post, God isn't monotheistic (as in Christianity, Judaism and Islam) but polytheistic.

The Hindu pantheon of gods include Vishnu, Ganesh (elephant god), Shiva, Kali (Shiva's wife), Brahma (creator) and in this temple at Tank Road,  the Sri Thandayuthapani Temple, the child god, Lord Muruga, rules. The temple is famous for a statue of an elephant's backside in a seated position, which is rare.

It is most notably the end point for Thaipusam, a festival which involves piercing of bodies and carrying of kavadis, elaborate structures which pierce the body of the carriers, in a procession of thanks.

abc wednesday

Taoist prayers

Thai spirit house

A Thai spirit house is a shrine to animist spirits placed in an auspicious spot to appease spirits. It is commonly seen in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, less common in Singapore. This one sits at the corner entrance to a food centre along Sembawang Road.


ABC Wednesday round 5

places of worship

Places of worship are everywhere in Singapore. Hindu temples, like this one in Depot Road, are rich in decorative art. Deities are carved on its structures including ornate archways. Most Indians in Singapore are Hindus although there are those who embrace different faiths.

What's interesting is that side by side to this temple is a Chinese temple. The Chinese religion is a mix of Taoism and Buddhism and even Confucianism. Deities range from the sky god and sea goddess to the humble kitchen god. You can't see it here but at the back of the lane sandwiched between the two temples is Bethesa church. What a vibrant harmony of religions!

Here you see the mythical dragon adorning the shingled rooftop of the temple. Practices handed down from our forefathers include the burning of joss sticks, joss paper and hell bank notes as offerings.

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