‘Divine Pigs’ Protested By Animal Rights Group In Taiwan [Video]

An animal rights group is protesting so-called “divine pigs” that are used in certain religious ceremonies.

Advocates explained that pigs are being grossly overfed before they are sacrificed to the gods. According to UPI, the Chingshui Zushi Temple in New Taipei City is one of the few temples that still conduct “divine pig” contests.

Protesters gathered hear the temple to demonstrate on Friday. Those in attendance could be heard chanting “overweight pigs do not bring fortune” while carrying a cartoon pig.

According to the Taipei Times, Environmental and Animal Society Taiwan director Chen Yu-min said these holy pigs are grown to over 10 times their normal size. Chen also explained that the animals used in these ceremonies were slaughtered inhumanely.

She said:

“I would like to make it clear that we are not against the tradition of having pigs as offering to deities and immortals, but if you choose to do this, please buy pigs that are raised in a healthy way and slaughtered humanely.”

Chen explained that deities would not want these animals treated in such a harmful manner. She also reminded everyone that Chingshui Zushi was a Buddhist Master and a vegetarian.

The Shanghaist explains these “divine pigs” or “holy pigs” are grown to enormous sizes and paraded around prior to their sacrifice. The animals rights group said the animals are often fed “sand and metal” in an effort to increase their weight.

The Pigs of God festival took place in Taiwan last week. The pigs are killed as a way of celebrating and welcoming in the new year.

Video of these “divine pigs” can be found embedded below. Keep in mind that the images are shocking and extremely disturbing.

As a result of these recent protests, the temple director said it may end the use of “divine pigs” in ceremonies beginning in 2017.

[Image by Wikimedia Commons]