TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan residents born under the zodiac signs of the Horse, Rat, Ox, Rabbit, and Rooster are seeking traditional rituals to counter astrological challenges as the Year of the Horse begins. The "Appeasing Tai Sui" (安太歲) ceremony, a traditional Chinese practice to mitigate misfortune, has seen surging demand across Taiwan's temples. Tai Sui (太歲) refers to the stars opposite Jupiter in Chinese astrology, which believers say can bring challenges to certain zodiac signs each year.
The Appeasing Tai Sui ritual aims to mitigate misfortune and ensure peace throughout the year, with fees ranging from NT$300 (around US$9.50) to NT$800 (around US$25.32) at most temples. Major temples including Hsing-tian Temple (行天宮), Lungshan Temple (龍山寺), Jenn Lann Temple (鎮瀾宮), and Hsi Lo Fu Hsing Temple (西螺福興宮) offer both in-person and online services. Participants fill out request forms with personal information to complete the ceremony, with some temples offering fully online services for those unable to visit in person.
The optimal period for the Appeasing Tai Sui ceremony falls between Tuesday (Feb. 17) and Tuesday (March 3), coinciding with Lunar New Year celebrations in Taiwan. Those who miss this window can still perform the ritual on auspicious days announced by temples or during other traditional festivals throughout the year. The in-person ceremony requires specific offerings, including Tai Sui clothing, incense, rice wine, tea, red candles, fresh flowers, sweets, and three types of meat.
Lighting lamps at temples may also help appease Tai Sui for those whose zodiac signs clash with it, according to traditional beliefs. The practice remains popular among anyone seeking general good fortune throughout the year, regardless of their zodiac sign. Many believers say these rituals not only avert potential disasters but also bring peace of mind, ensuring a stable and harmonious year ahead for participants and their families.