ABSTRACT
As I noted in the Introduction and the previous chapter, judicial rituals constitute a legitimate form of legal practice that is largely tolerated by the modern nation-state. This is particularly the case in Taiwan. In contrast with China, where religion is only now gradually emerging from the shadow of long-term oppression by a totalitarian regime, Taiwanese religions are thriving and even expanding. Freedom of religion has always been guaranteed under the Republic of China Constitution, Article 13 of which clearly states, “the people shall have freedom of religious beliefs”. However, now that Taiwan has developed into a democracy, people can practice the religious tradition of their choice without fear of state suppression. Temples continue to play an integral role in individual, family, and community life, and temple cults have retained their importance as sites for daily worship, community service, and massive festivals (Katz 2003b; Madsen 2007; Weller 1999).
