San Qing(Taoist Trinity) refers to three supreme Gods respected by Taoism, including Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, Celestial Worthy of Numinous Treasure and Celestial Worthy of the Tao and its Power.
Worship for the Taoist Trinity dates back to the 4th century. In fact, it is an avatar of philosophic idea, and the reflection of the cosmism supported by Taoism.
In Taoism's opinion, the Taoist Trinity lives in a far and mysterious fairyland, and governs countless other Gods while supervising the social life of human beings. Among them, the Celestial Worthy of the Primordial Beginning has the highest status, which is the creator of the whole world, like Chinese Lord. As for the Celestial Worthy of Numinous Treasure, he is fit for the demand of lower-class people. The Celestial Worthy of the Tao and its Power is mostly regarded as the primogenitor of Taoism, Lao Zi.
Common Taoist temples all have their statues placed. The temples specially built for them are called Palace or the Hall of Taoist Trinity. Usually the Celestial Worthy of the Primordial Beginning is placed in the middle, symbolizing the original state of the world. On his left side is the Celestial Worthy of Numinous Treasure, who holds a hermaphrodite mirror, symbolizing the world that has just come out of the muddleheaded status. On the right side is Celestial Worthy of the Tao and its Power, who holds a fan that is painted with a hermaphrodite mirror, symbolizing the beginning status when the world was first created. In the Taoist art, the content about the status and paintings of Taoist Trinity is abundant. Today, a lot of excellent works are kept.
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