Collected Illustrations of the Three Powers: Ceremonial Systems

Layout of the Sacrificial Altar

Diagram of the Arrangement for the Two Side-Corridors This diagram serves as a visual guide for the temple attendants (acolytes) to ensure every vessel and food offering is placed in its spiritually correct position within the side halls of the temple.

original: "爵" (Jue). These are the three-legged ritual wine cups used to present the offerings to the spirits of the ancestors and sages.

original: "稷" (Ji) and "黍" (Shu). These represent the essential staple grains of ancient Chinese civilization.

original: "芹菹兔醢" (Qinzu tuhai) and "菁菹鹿醢" (Jingzu luhai). The combination of pickled greens and fermented meat pastes represents a balance of flavors and the bounty of the land and forest.

The repetition of "豕肉" (pork) indicates four specific portions or slices of sacrificial meat arranged on the altar.

original: "帛" (Bo). A piece of fine silk, often white, which is presented as a high-status offering and typically burned at the end of the ceremony to "deliver" it to the spirit world.

The bottom row represents the front of the altar where the officiant interacts with the offering space.