Nine Emperor Gods Festival
Nine Emperor Gods Festival is celebrated by the taoist devotees in Penang. They believe that the nine emperor gods symbolize good wealth and prosperity.
The nine emperors are Tan Lang Tai Xing Jun, Ju Men Yuan Xing Jun, Lu Cun Zhen Xing Jun, Wen Qu Niu Xing Jun, Lian Zhen Gang Xing Jun, Wu Qu Ji Xing Jun, Po Jun Guan Xing Jun, Zuo Fu Da Dao Xing Jun and You Bi Da Dao Xing Jun. They are the sons of Father Emperor Zhou Yu Dou Fu Yuan Jun and Mother of the Big Dipper Dou Mu Yuan Jun.
The festival is originated from the Southern China. Due to migration, it reached to Malaysia. It falls during the ninth Lunar month of the Chinese calendar. It lasts for nine days and the biggest celebration happens on the last day.
During the festival, the taoist devotees in Penang practice vegetarian diet and dress up in traditional white clothes to offer prayers in the temple. The ritual include lighting the candles and incense sticks to welcome the Gods on Earth. Some devotees perform the rituals like skewering and fire walking ceremonies.
On the last day of the festival, there will be a procession carrying a beautifully decorated 'Emperor Boat' to bid farewell to the Gods by the sea. The last prayers of the festival are offered by the sea.
Image by: Tourism Malaysia
Where to go?
The festival is held at The Nine Emperor Gods Temple or also known as Rumah Berhala Tow Boo Kong in Butterworth, Penang.
Time
The festival is celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th Chinese lunar month. It often takes place In October yearly.
Admission
There is no entrance fee for the festival.