The "serving rice" Ritual of the Yimin Ye | 義民爺的「奉飯」儀式

In Hakka regions, the "serving rice" (奉飯) ritual to honor Yimin Ye (義民爺) takes three main forms: devotees take turns carrying meals to the temple, the temple prepares and offers food on a regular basis, and individuals pay homage by offering food at home. This tradition originated during the Qing Dynasty in the aftermath of the Lin Shuangwen Rebellion, when Hakka ancestors formed volunteer militias to defend their communities. To honor the loyalty and bravery of these ancestors, later generations have continued the "Offering Feast" ritual as an expression of respect and remembrance. This ritual symbolizes the reverence and care the living hold for those who have passed, embodying the Hakka tradition of loyalty and remembrance.
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