Snake Temple in Bayan Lepas holds annual flame-watching ceremony

The Hock Hin Keong (Ban Ka Lan Snake Temple) in Bayan Lepas came alive on Sunday, February 2, as thousands gathered for the temple’s annual celebration and the much-anticipated flame-watching ceremony.

This year’s event carried even more significance, as it coincided with the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac, an occurrence that happens only once every twelve years.

A Grand Festival of Culture and Tradition

The temple grounds transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, with more than 40 stalls offering a variety of food, trinkets, and traditional goods. The lively atmosphere was further enhanced by a series of musical performances and cultural displays, making the event an immersive experience for all who attended. Traditional drumming performances echoed throughout the temple grounds, while games and traditional dances kept both locals and visitors entertained.

One of the highlights of the event was a traditional puppet dance performance by the renowned Kim Giak Low Choon Puppet Show, which took place on a separate stage in front of the temple. The intricate puppet dance delighted the audience with its artistry, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Another unforgettable moment was the snake dance performance by the Xuan Kang Sports Cultural Centre. This unique variation of the traditional Chinese dragon dance involved a snake puppet gracefully weaving through the crowd, captivating onlookers with its fluid movement. The snake dance, a highlight of the evening, is deeply symbolic in the context of the temple’s worship of the snake deity.

The Flame-Watching Ceremony

As the night deepened, devotees gathered inside the temple, drawn by the ritual of the “Chneah Hoay” flame-watching ceremony. This sacred moment, held to honor Chor Su Kong’s birthday, is more than just a celebration of cultural heritage; it carries a profound significance for the community. The ceremony blends spirituality with the future, as the flames are believed to offer divine insight into Penang’s economic prospects for the year ahead.

At precisely 11.30 pm, the temple’s incense urn was ignited, and the crowd fell silent, their eyes fixed on the flames. The flames’ brightness, stability, and intensity were carefully observed, with each burst seen as a symbol of the future. For the people of Penang, this moment is filled with hope, as the flames are viewed as an omen that could either signal prosperity or caution for the state’s financial health. The ceremony is not only a cultural ritual but a deeply rooted belief in the power of divine guidance.

A Deep Connection to History and Belief

Built in 1850, the Hock Hin Keong Snake Temple is a site rich in history and legend. Dedicated to Master Choo Sor Kong, a revered Chinese Buddhist monk who lived during the Song Dynasty, the temple has long been a symbol of faith and protection. Master Choo Sor Kong, also known as Chor Soo, was honored for his life of good deeds, and after his passing, he was revered as an “eminent historic figure.”

According to legend, the temple was built on land that was home to snakes, and once completed, the snakes moved in, becoming protectors of the temple. The presence of the snakes, particularly the Wagler Pit Vipers, is a unique feature that draws visitors from far and wide. These snakes are seen as symbols of divine protection and are revered by the temple’s visitors.

The festivities at the Hock Hin Keong Snake Temple this year were a testament to the resilience of local traditions, the unity of the community, and the belief in a prosperous future, guided by both faith and cultural heritage.

As the temple continues to serve as a beacon of cultural and religious significance, its annual celebration reminds attendees of the deep-rooted traditions that shape Penang’s identity.