In the 25th year of the reign of Qing Emperor Daoguang (1845), Chang Yi-su, Qing Regional Commander for the Taiwan / Penghu Region, visited the town of Jiayi, where he heard stories of miraculous deeds wrought by the Five Lords. Thinking these to be just superstitious fables meant to fool a gullible population, he issued a challenge to the Lords. On three pine posts pounded firmly into the ground he wrote: ‘If these posts have not been removed of their own accord within three days, I hereby swear to render the idols as so much kindling.’ On the afternoon of the third day, under clear skies, two dogs bounded into the Qing encampment. Chasing one another playfully, they brushed against the posts. Suddenly, the skies darkened and lights flashed. A funnel of wind kicked up and pulled the three posts from their secure moorings. Enlightened as to the immeasurable powers of the Nankunshen deities, Regional Commander Chang presented to the Five Lords this marquee, entitled “Light Embraces All Four Directions”.
|