Being Malaysian, it is inevitable for one to ignore shrines that resemble the one above.
My interest in Datuk Gong initiated with an intrigue when I noticed a shrine in my campus' temple ( I mistook Datuk Gong shrines to be a branch of Chinese ancestral worship earlier ). My quest explored and I finally solved the mystery behind this ubiquitous deity.
Datuk in the campus periphery of AIMST University, my Alma Mater
Datuk Gong shrines are widespread across the width and breadth of this nation, occupying any possible space - Under trees, hotels, malls, houses, temples, forests and even by the roadside to quote a few.
Image: A Datuk shrine inside a roadside Muniandy temple, Sungai Lalang, Sungai Petani
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Who is Datuk Gong ?
Datuk Gong is a consciousness worshiped for mundane purposes. Common examples include protection, wealth, and health.
Image: A Crocodile as Datuk - Datuk Buaya in Sarawak. Credits: Biapol ( Instagram ).
Image: Datuk Hijau in Sunway Hotel, Perai, Penang
For instance, people worship Datuk Gong before going for a job interview. Commoner examples of course include for the purpose of winning a lottery.
The term 'Datuk Gong' is an amalgamation of two cultures. Datuk refers to a honorable title in the Malay language while 'Gong' refers to the same in the Chinese dialect. As it is obvious-this deity represents the Malaysian culture for reasons we shall see.
A Datuk shrine or idol represents an individual consciousness. This consciousness would be that of a prominent figure in the society who has walked the timeline of history. For instance, healers, martial artists, philanthropists across all ages.
The term 'Datuk Gong' is an amalgamation of two cultures. Datuk refers to a honorable title in the Malay language while 'Gong' refers to the same in the Chinese dialect. As it is obvious-this deity represents the Malaysian culture for reasons we shall see.
A Datuk shrine or idol represents an individual consciousness. This consciousness would be that of a prominent figure in the society who has walked the timeline of history. For instance, healers, martial artists, philanthropists across all ages.
A Datuk is not confined to a particular race or religion. For those who are aware of Dargahs in India, Datuk Gong worship is a Malaysian equivalent to it - just that we find their presence in small erected shrines rather than their actual samadhi ( grave )
Image: Attankarai Dargah, Thirunelveli, India
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A Dargah is a shrine built over the samadhi ( grave ) of a Sufi Saint who has attained an eminent spiritual awakening. When such beings leave the body, their remains continue to serve as a hub of their attained state. Those who come in proximity to their space will benefit from this state. Dargahs have a mystical ambiance and are frequented by people from different religious backgrounds.
Image: Nagore Sheriff Dargah, Georgetown, Penang. This Malaysian counterpart of the Dargah in India was constructed centuries back. The soil from the Dargah in India was used as a foundation to replicate the aura.
Many seekers even opt for Dargahs as a spot for meditation.
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This Dargah is presided by the Sufi Saint, Shahul Hamid Badusha Kaadiri. He was trained in various arts. He was revered as Nagore Andavar ( the ruler of Nagore ).
So to put it simple - Datuk Gong represents a saintly personality who has attained spiritual awakening or Who possesses a mystical attribute, thus preserving a very vibrant consciousness upon leaving the body, which can confer help to us. One of the quickest paths to spiritual awakening is selfless service. This is one reason why most Datuks were once someone who had rendered selfless help and service to humanity.
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Image: Datuk Karpal Singh, now worshiped.
There are no strict regulations and protocols as to how one should worship the deity. Importantly, you should do the necessary rituals to preserve their aura in that area.
Image: Datuk Gong and Muniandy co-existing in a temple in Ipoh.
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Commonly, worshipers offer black coffee ( Kopi O ) and traditional Malay delicacies. Lamps and incense are very crucial - incense smoke in particular. The nature of the Datuk must be understood as well. If the consciousness is that of a personality who was once a Muslim, offering of pork and alcohol is strictly taboo.
Unfortunately, we have reduced the position of Datuks to that of a mere provider of wealth. Most seek such shrines hoping to win the lottery.
What I would recommend you to do if you pass by a Datuk Shrine :
*This is applicable to shrines you are comfortable with. If the shrine appears fishy, it is best to avoid it. Not all shrines are presided by a deity despite the established form*
(1) Send immense gratitude. Every Datuk functions as a protector of a particular area. Just send immense gratitude for His compassionate consciousness. None of us are aware as to who was saved from mishaps thanks to the grace of a Datuk.
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(2) Look at the deity and pour love. If you are comfortable and if it is permissible, offer simple snacks or black coffee. With time, this simple act of serving will amplify within you and you will start radiating compassion to all beings around you. This is the magic of Datuk - where He can help awaken humanity in you. This is utmost important. Love all, serve all.
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Image above: You can see Sultan Abdul Samad now a worshiped Datuk in Banting
