Mechanical Ritual Procession Tablet

Temple Steward Plaque

In traditional temple rituals and deity parades, “zhishi” (執事) refers to ceremonial staff members, each responsible for carrying a specific item or symbol as part of the processional guard. They play important roles in both the front and rear sections of the deity parade during temple festivals.
At the rear of the procession, thirty-six zhishi often appear, each holding a different symbolic weapon, forming a majestic and protective escort.
In the front section, zhishi may carry ritual items such as the Dragon-Head Staff, Golden Melon Staff, or Tall Wooden Plaques:
The Dragon-Head Staff symbolizes leadership, authority, solemnity, and the power to ward off evil.
The Tall Wooden Plaques, usually painted red or white with black characters, serve a guiding and warning function, emphasizing ritual seriousness and sacred presence.
Examples of such plaques include the Silence (肅靜) sign, Make Way (迴避) sign, Ritual (祀典) plaque, Imperial Bestowal (賜封) plaque, and Main Deity (主神) plaque. These ceremonial signs help clear the path for the deity, warn onlookers, and drive away negative energies, maintaining order and reverence during the procession.