The first level of Yuan Tower is sacredly reserved as the Ancestral Shrine of the Emperors, a revered final resting place for the imperial family. Only those closest to the reigning emperor – his parents, children, and wives who pass away during his reign, as well as the emperor himself upon his passing – are honored with enshrinement here.
The ancestral tablets, embodying the spirits of the revered ancestors, are arranged with precision, reflecting the strict hierarchy of seniority. However, their positioning is also determined by the material from which they are crafted, signifying the individual's status and relationship to the emperor.
Tablets made of jade, the most revered material, are reserved for the emperor and empress, occupying positions of supreme honor. Those crafted from platinum, a precious and durable metal, are dedicated to the emperor's parents, acknowledging their esteemed lineage.
Gold tablets, symbolizing value and nobility, are assigned to the emperor's children, while silver tablets, representing clarity and purity, are reserved for his courtesans. Ivory tablets, signifying elegance and refinement, are used for the emperor's concubines. This intricate hierarchy ensures that each ancestor is honored according to their position within the imperial family, while the materials used serve as a poignant reminder of their status and legacy.
The air is thick with the fragrance of incense, wafting from intricately carved burners that adorn the altars. The sweet scent of sandalwood and the earthy aroma of patchouli mingle with the whispers of the ancestors, creating an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation. Devotees come to pay their respects, bringing offerings to honor their loved ones. White chrysanthemums, symbolizing grief and mourning, are placed before the tablets, while food offerings of rice and the deceased's favorite dishes are arranged on delicate ceramic plates. A few coins, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, are also left as a token of respect. Within this sacred space, the living connect with the departed, seeking guidance, comfort, and wisdom. The ancestral shrine is a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between generations, and the reverence with which the imperial family honors their ancestors.
Within this sacred space, loved ones and the people can pay their respects, offering tokens of gratitude and devotion. This hallowed ground represents the highest level of access granted to commoners, a privilege reserved for those seeking to honor the imperial lineage.
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