The Pao-an Temple
--Li-tou Ceremony
The purpose of the Li-tou ceremony is to pray for blessings and protection from deities. The most special feature of the ceremony is the tou lamp.
A tou lamp is a pot full of rice and several objects. Lamps (now electric lights) represent a bright, promising future and cannot be put out until the ceremony has come to an end. The rice and a long sword are good luck charms which help repel evil spirits. A round mirror, used to reflect our inner selves, teaches us to distinguish right from wrong. A ruler reminds us to pay attention to our behavior. A scale symbolizes objectivity and rationality. A pair of scissors stand for dividers that represent order and principle. Wealth and longevity are signified by twelve (or multiples of twelve) coins which are tied together with red yarn. And an umbrella signifies good luck and blessings.