Beijing has been a focal point for China’s most important religious observances since it become the country’s capital in 1420. Of all the temples built to worship the mighty forces in nature, the Temple of Heaven in southern Beijing is easily the most significant one.
To run a country of hundreds of millions, the emperor needed more than just intimidation and an effective government. He had to obtain his legitimacy from Heaven to rule.
As you enter this tremendous temple, a mysterious world once closed off from the average person is now ready to show all its mystery.[I:http://buddhisminfo.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/DavidCheng49.jpg]
The Hall of Abstinence is on the west side. The emperor used this area to prepare himself for the prayers to Heaven. He would keep himself away from alcohol, meat, garlic, onions, and sexual relations. The hall was kept simple, for a luxury-loving emperor wouldn’t be favored by Heaven.
On the east side of the complex are the Animal Slaughtering Hall and Divine Kitchen. Sacrificial animals such as sheep, cattle, and pigs used to be slaughtered and prepared in these two halls. It would take many workers several days to prepare all of the food.
Also, music was essential to the ceremonies. In the hall of Divine Music Administration, imperial orchestras practiced compositions day and night so that no mistake was made when the rituals were held.
The number of antique instruments displayed in the hall is a big hit. And be sure to enjoy the mock performances, which are staged every two hours.
The Circular Altar, standing at the center of the temple, is the most important structure in the Temple of Heaven. A radial terrace, the altar was built for the emperor to worship Heaven. Dont skip your photo opportunity here, as in ancient China this was believed to be the center of the universe.
Each year, the emperor would pray to Heaven and validate his right to rule the kingdom. It is said that the weather would be good if the emperor did things right, while there would be death and natural disasters if Heaven rejected him.
The ritual gave the emperor absolute power to rule his empire.