| Summary: | 碩士 === 玄奘大學 === 宗教學系碩士在職專班 === 98 === Buddhism in Taiwan has developed for over 300 years. Hsin-lien Temple in Houlong, Miaoli County, has also existed for over 150 years. Though it had been damaged by earthquakes, gone through the Japanese-ruling period, and been influenced by Buddhism from China after the restoration of Taiwan from Japanese regime, Hsin-lien Temple remains a quiet place with traditional doctrines and buildings built during Japanese colonial period because of effort and support of the members of the temple committee and pious Buddhist followers.
The thesis is based on the study on Hsi-lien Temple and the belief in Wang Chao-chun. It is divided into five chapters. In Chapter One, the purpose of study is discussed and relevant literature is reviewed. In Chapter Two, the geographical location and history of Hsin-lien Temple is described. Chapter Three talks about the features of Hsin-lien Temple and provides an analysis of why people worship Wang Chao-chun in the temple. Chapter Four focuses on Japanese style temples, explaining the architecture and management of Hsin-lien Temple. In Chapter Five, the beliefs of disciples of Hsin-lien Temple and the social functions it provides are analyzed.
Hsin-lien Temple is the only temple in Taiwan that is devoted to Wang Chao-chun. The place where it is located can overlook the surrounding towns as well as Houlong River. The temple is filled with the atmosphere of Zen, which can erase visitors’ worries and inspire them to realize the philosophy of life and appreciate the aesthetics. With all the effort of the temple staff and disciples, Wang Chao-chun has become a bridge to connect different cultures of religions on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. This temple, which emphasizes the combination of different races, has become a unique story of beliefs.
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