San Qing (Taoist Trinity) refers to three supreme Gods respected by Taoism,
including Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, Celestial Worthy of Numinous
Treasure and Celestial Worthy of the Tao and its Power.
Worship for the Taoist Trinity dates back to
the 4th century. In fact, it is an avatar of philosophic idea, and the
reflection of the cosmism supported by Taoism.
In Taoism's opinion, the Taoist Trinity
lives in a far and mysterious fairyland, and governs countless other Gods while
supervising the social life of human beings. Among them, the Celestial Worthy of
the Primordial Beginning has the highest status, which is the creator of the
whole world, like Chinese Lord. As for the Celestial Worthy of Numinous
Treasure, he is fit for the demand of lower-class people. The Celestial Worthy
of the Tao and its Power is mostly regarded as the primogenitor of Taoism, Lao
Zi.
Common Taoist temples all have their statues
placed. The temples specially built for them are called Palace or the Hall of
Taoist Trinity. Usually the Celestial Worthy of the Primordial Beginning is
placed in the middle, symbolizing the original state of the world. On his left
side is the Celestial Worthy of Numinous Treasure, who holds a hermaphrodite
mirror, symbolizing the world that has just come out of the muddleheaded status.
On the right side is Celestial Worthy of the Tao and its Power, who holds a fan
that is painted with a hermaphrodite mirror, symbolizing the beginning status
when the world was first created. In the Taoist art, the content about the
status and paintings of Taoist Trinity is abundant. Today, a lot of excellent
works are kept.