Wangye (Plague Lord)

Legends of Wangye vary; some say they were 360 scholars unjustly killed in the Tang Dynasty, while others cite them as deified virtuous officials. The most famous legend concerns the Five Royal Lords of Nankunshen, who fought a supernatural battle with a local Child Spirit (Wanshan Ye) over the spiritual land. Eventually, Guanyin mediated, leading to their peaceful coexistence.

Wangye worship is elaborate and features strict ritual protocols. Offerings typically include the "Three Sacrificial Animals" (pork, chicken, fish), fruits, incense sticks, and joss paper. Devotees pray for peace, exorcism, and protection from plagues. The most iconic ritual is the "King Boat Ceremony" (Shao Wang Chuan), a triennial event where an elaborately crafted ship is loaded with symbolic goods and burned to carry away evil spirits. Worshippers often consult Wangye through divination blocks (jiaobei) and fortune sticks. In southern Taiwan, Wangye temples feature spirit mediums (jitong) who enter trances during festivals to communicate divine messages.

The most spectacular Wangye festival is the "Donggang King Boat Ceremony" (Donggang Ying Wang), held every three years in Pingtung County. The eight-day event begins with "Welcoming from the Sea" — inviting the Wangye ashore — and climaxes with "Sending Off the King" — burning a magnificent handcrafted ship on the beach at night, watched by tens of thousands. It is designated a National Important Folk Custom. The Nankunshen Grand Temple Fair in late April of the lunar calendar draws millions of pilgrims. The Xigang Incense Festival (Xigang Qing Jiao), also triennial, is another major Wangye event recognized by UNESCO.