The key facts
- Barefoot devotees walked over hot coals at the Si Tian Gong temple in Kuala Pilah, Malaysia, on Saturday evening.
- Before the ceremony, the fire pit was levelled and the coals sprinkled with salt; fireworks, firecrackers and a lion dance also took place.
- The nine-day Taoist festival is celebrated by Chinese communities across Southeast Asia; participants keep a strict vegetarian fast.
Fire-walking in Kuala Pilah
On Saturday evening in the Malaysian town of Kuala Pilah, barefoot devotees walked over a layer of smouldering coals at the Si Tian Gong temple. The ritual took place as part of the Nine Emperor Gods Festival. Fireworks and firecrackers lit up the sky over the celebration, and performers staged a lion dance.
Preparation and meaning of the rite
Before the ceremony began, participants levelled the fire pit and sprinkled the coals with salt. According to the temple committee chairman, crossing the fire is meant to bring luck, health and success in business for the entire coming year. Other devotees lit candles, made offerings and received blessings as clergy applied red paint to their foreheads.
About the festival
The Nine Emperor Gods Festival is a nine-day Taoist holiday celebrated by Chinese communities across Southeast Asia. Throughout all nine days, its participants strictly observe a vegetarian diet.
