Jingxiang
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ToursExplore Lably’s 3D toursJiangxiang is practiced in diffused Chinese folk religion and also by adherents belonging to the schools of Taoism, Chinese Buddhism and Confucianism. It is highly essential when conducting general prayer to one of the Deities, paying respect to a deceased ancestor as part of the daily devotions in Chinese ancestor veneration, or celebrating the Qingming Festival, Zhong Yuan Festival and Chongyang Festival.
Number and meanings of incense
The number of joss stick varies, usually three or five, or less commonly, nine. The ancient Chinese consider that even numbers are associated with yin, and odd numbers are associated with yang. Because yang represents positive and auspicious things, odd numbers like three, five and nine are preferred in many rituals.
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Sandalwood joss
The scent of the joss sticks is believed to calm the human spirit and good for health because the key ingredients of joss sticks are made up of various herbs. The same effect is believed to affect the spirit of a deceased ancestor. In this connection it also serves as a prayer to the deity that an adherent is worshipping. It is also considered a form of spiritual nourishment to the spirits in Taoism and Chinese folk religion.
Other offerings
Usually jingxiang is done with an offering of Chinese tea, in a number corresponding to the gods, typically three cups. Fruits and various offerings are generally presented when conducting Jingxiang, however the specification differs for different temples or deities.