Dazhong Ye | Civil and Martial Lords
Wen Wu Dazhong Ye are the primary deities of Xinzhuang Dizang An. Originating from the worship of wandering spirits, they evolved into judicial deities. 'Wen (Civil) Lord' represents those who died of illness, depicted as a scholar; 'Wu (Martial) Lord' represents those who died in battle, depicted as a warrior. They act as judicial officers of the underworld, famous for solving disputes, recovering lost items, and exorcising evil. The 'Guan Jiang Shou' troupe associated with them is a major icon of Taiwanese temple culture.
Originally worshipped to appease spirits from ethnic conflicts and plagues in early Xinzhuang. Legend says the Civil and Martial Lords were brothers who died on their way to imperial exams and appeared in dreams. After performing miracles like solving crimes and finding lost property, they became the region's guardians. The annual 'Night Patrol' on the 1st of the 5th Lunar Month sees them patrolling the streets to capture evil spirits and ensure peace.
Worship of Dazhong Ye combines elements of ancestral veneration and deity worship. Devotees offer incense, fruits, and the Three Sacrificial Animals. A unique practice involves asking Dazhong Ye to help find lost items — worshippers describe the lost object and its last known location, then cast divination blocks. The Wen (Civil) Lord handles disputes and legal matters, while the Wu (Martial) Lord deals with exorcism and protection. The "Guan Jiang Shou" (官將首) spirit generals who serve Dazhong Ye perform dramatic face-painted processions that are among the most iconic images of Taiwanese temple culture.
The most important festival is the "Night Patrol" (An Fang) on the 1st day of the 5th lunar month, when the Wen Wu Dazhong Ye are carried through the streets of Xinzhuang at night to capture evil spirits and maintain peace. The spectacular "Guan Jiang Shou" troupe leads the procession with fierce face paint and dramatic movements. The annual Ghost Month (7th lunar month) ceremonies at Xinzhuang Dizang An are also major events, featuring elaborate rituals to appease wandering spirits, with the Dazhong Ye serving as divine peacekeepers between the living and the dead.
Wen Wu Dazhong Ye
Finding lost items, handling lawsuits, exorcising evil spirits, upholding justice