Singapore's Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple on Waterloo Street recently put up a notice stating that those under 16 do not need to draw divination lots, sparking much discussion. A temple spokesperson revealed two reasons for posting this notice.
According to Shin Min Daily News, a member of the public recently posted a photo in a local Facebook group, pointing out that the temple had put up a sign reading: 'Teenagers under the age of 16 do not need to draw divination lots; praying that Guanyin Bodhisattva grants wisdom and health is most important.'
This century-old temple is one of the most popular in Singapore, renowned locally and abroad, with a constant stream of worshippers coming to draw divination lots and pray for blessings.
When a reporter from Shin Min Daily News visited the temple one afternoon recently, they indeed saw the notice placed on the counters on both sides of the main hall.
In response to inquiries from Shin Min Daily News, a spokesperson for the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple Trust Committee emphasized that the temple is not forbidding those under 16 from drawing divination lots, but rather feels this younger group may not really need to.
The spokesperson pointed out that drawing a lot is a sincere act of seeking guidance from Guanyin Bodhisattva, a solemn and sacred practice. In recent years, however, the temple has observed that some parents allow young children to draw sticks from the container, and these very young children, lacking understanding, treat the sticks as toys.
'Such behavior is not only disrespectful, but also not good for the children themselves.'
As for older children and teenagers, the temple has also noticed that many in this age group seek lots mainly related to studies and exams.
'Although it is understandable for students to worry about academic success, diligently studying is more important than trying to predict exam results through drawing lots. Therefore, we believe that for those under 16, praying to Guanyin Bodhisattva for health, blessings, and wisdom is generally more appropriate than drawing divination lots.'