Introduction of the Taoist Fifteen Offerings (道教十五供簡介)

In the previous introduction, the Official Taoist Ten Offerings had been introduced (Incense, Flowers, Lamp/Candles, Water, Fruit, Tea, Food, Gems, Beads & Cloth/Clothing).

In here, another Five Offerings will be introduced and with the previous Official Taoist Ten Offerings, these 15 items are known as the Official Fifteen Offerings of Taoism (道教十五供).

So, what are other Five Offerings?

Here they are:

Music or Music Instruments, Taoist Scriptures, Taoist Classics or Texts, Taoist Headgear & Taoist Command Objects.

So what are the meanings behind these Five Offerings?

Here're the brief intros on the meanings:

Music or Music Instruments represents Happiness & Joyous. (樂代表歡愉)

Taoist Scriptures represents Cultivation. By practising regular chanting & learning of Taoist Scriptures, Oneself will be able to understand the Miracle of the Big Dao. Upon understanding, Oneself will be able to merge Oneself into the Big Dao in-order to attain a higher level of Cultivation and finally, to promote the Upright Teaching of Taoism. (經代表悟真)

Taoist Classics or Texts represents Gaining Knowledge for Self Reflection & Discipline. Using the Preaching & Teaching of the Forefathers & Ancestors to gauge Oneself’s performance & progress. Eliminate the Negative attitude & Usher-in the Positive thoughts for Oneself’s Cultivation. Final Objective; to be a Good & Upright Person. (典代表戒性)

Taoist Headgear represents Respecting the Nature & Understand the Cycle of Changes. (冠代表敬天)

Taoist Command Objects represents Authority to Eliminate the Negative in-order to maintain a Balance. (令代表法地)

So when can we do the Fifteen Offerings?

Usually only used in Big Festivals, Anniversary Celebrations & Grand Ceremonies.