Must Do vs. Never Do — Rules and Mistakes in Confucian Temple Worship

1. Proper Worship Order

Visiting a Confucian temple is not just a sightseeing experience but a solemn cultural journey. One must follow the correct sequence to show respect to Confucius and the sages:

• Entrance Order: Always enter through the main gate; do not use side entrances to show reverence.
• Worship Sequence: First, bow at the Great Achievement Gate as a sign of entering Confucius' domain. Then, proceed to the Great Achievement Hall (honoring Confucius and his four disciples) and the Chongsheng Shrine (honoring Confucius' ancestors). Students may then visit Kui Xing Pavilion to pray for academic success, followed by the Ming Officials Shrine and Local Sages Shrine, symbolizing respect for teachers and scholarly pursuits.

2. Etiquette and Common Mistakes

• Do not take photos or make noise: Especially in the Great Achievement Hall, visitors must remain silent and respectful.
• Proper Three Bows and Nine Kowtows Ritual: While facing the Confucius statue, perform three deep bows and nine kowtows (each bow followed by a slight nod).
• Never turn your back on Confucius: After worship, take three steps backward before turning around to leave.

3. Offerings and Prayers

• Striking the Bell Three Times for Wisdom: Upon entering the temple, visitors may ring the temple bell three times, symbolizing wisdom and academic success. Avoid striking too hard; a gentle touch is best.
• Incense Offering Rules: Always light three sticks of incense, representing Heaven, Earth, and Humanity. Do not overcrowd the incense burner.
• Offering Rituals: Present items such as Wenchang Pens (symbolizing intelligence) and Zhuangyuan Cakes (symbolizing top academic achievement) with both hands, placing them gently on the altar.

4. Beggars and Donation Box Rules

• Do not give money to beggars: According to tradition, one should not give alms at the temple gate before worship to avoid "giving away" personal fortune.
• Proper donation etiquette: Place donations into the temple's merit box, used for temple maintenance and scholarships. Favor auspicious amounts like 6 (smoothness), 8 (prosperity), or 9 (longevity).

5. Special Confucian Rituals

• Crossing the Zhuangyuan Bridge: This symbolic bridge represents academic success. Step in with your right foot first, followed by the left, symbolizing divine guidance and human wisdom.
• Touching the Kui Xing Foot for Wisdom: In front of Kui Xing’s statue, touch his right foot for good academic fortune; avoid touching the left foot, which is believed to bring difficulties in exams.

6. Special Taboos

• Women should avoid entering the Great Achievement Hall during menstruation: Traditional beliefs suggest this period weakens personal energy, potentially affecting academic blessings.
• Avoid speaking disrespectfully inside the temple: Refrain from discussing cheating, abandoning studies, or other negative topics.
• Do not place books upside down or drop them on the ground: This symbolizes academic setbacks. Always handle books carefully.

7. Unique Confucian Blessing Ceremonies

• Enlightenment Ritual: On special academic days or the Lunar New Year, students can participate in the Zhuhong Ceremony, where teachers mark their foreheads with red cinnabar, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment.
• Jumping Over the Dragon Gate: Students join their hands in prayer, cross the “Dragon Gate” stone, and bow three times, symbolizing overcoming challenges and achieving success.