Chinese Temples Committee

Pak Tai Temple, Hok Un Kok

Temples introduction
Temples map
Temples photo

According to the inscription on the incense burner, the temple was built in 1876. The temple was originally located on a hillock, at the junction of the present Tsing Chau Street and Ma Tau Wai Road. Because of urbanization, the area was levelled, and the temple was demolished. On the proposal of a dock worker in 1929, a new temple was built at the present location.

Pak Tai

Pak Tai is the main deity of the Temple. According to legend, Pak Tai is also known as Yuen Tin Sheung Tai (Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven). He was a prince of Shang Dynasty(商朝) 3,000 years ago and became a learned Taoist at a young age. His name came to the notice of Yuan Shi Tian Zun, the Taoist Primeval Deity who invited him to join the company of immortals.

During the fall of Shang Dynasty, the Demon King ravaged the world. The Taoist Primeval Deity then ordered the Jade Emperor to appoint Pak Tai as the Commander of twelve heavenly legions to fight the evil. The Demon King summoned a big tortoise and a gigantic serpent to help in the combat but was eventually defeated by Pak Tai. On triumphant return to Heaven, Pak Tai was awarded the title of Supreme Emperor of the Dark Heaven. Since then, he is worshipped for his power, courage and devotion. People also believe that he has the spiritual power to abate disasters. Nowadays, Pak Tai is usually portrayed in a triumphant posture with long hair, bare foot and clad in golden armour. The serpent and the tortoise trodden under his feet symbolize that evil will never win over righteousness.

Architectural Setting

Other Deities

Apart from the main deity Pak Tai, the temple also houses the Buddha, Tai Sui (Sixty Lords of Time), Choi Pak Sing Kwan (a God of Wealth), Kwun Yum (Goddess of Mercy) and Wah Kwong (God of Fire).