022 Spritual Connections and Religion

Longshan Temple in Taipei is multidenominational and dates back to 1738. (Lonely Planet Taiwan) It’s typically ornate and filled with devoteds circling the smoking pyres and bowing to the Buddha of choice.  90% of the population have roots in Buddhism but like back home perhaps only 40% are active. Many profess to a spiritual side which fits our philosophy, too. We watched as this lady in red showed intense devotion by bowing and prostrating in several different locations. Meanwhile others brought offerings of fruits and flowers to atable where others sat and read or chanted prayers. Very interesting, one guy we met said that Longshan is almost more for the tourists than the devout. 

Based upon the teachings of Master Kong (Confucius 1551-479 BC) Confucianism seems ot us to be less flashy and perhaps more deeply rooted in philosophy then main stream Buddhism.