Tua Pek Gong
The Deity of Fu De Zheng Shen, also known as Earth God or Land Deity, is respectfully addressed as
"Tua Pek Gong" in the regions of Singapore and Malaysia.
He is the guardian deity of local areas and households, overseeing matters related to land, agriculture, and fisheries. Additionally, he is also responsible for matters concerning wealth and finances, and is hence regarded as a "God of Wealth" by the community. His birthday is celebrated annually on the second day of the second lunar month and the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month.
Fu De Zheng Shen, with the surname Zhang and given name Fu De, was born on the second day of the second lunar month in the second year of King Wu of Zhou's reign (1134 BCE). From a young age, he exhibited exceptional intelligence and an exceedingly filial nature. At the age of thirty-six, his fortunes changed, and in the 24th year of King Cheng of Zhou's reign (1098 BCE), he was appointed as the chief tax official of the imperial court. Known for his integrity, diligent governance, and compassion for the people, he served in this position. He passed away in the third year of King Mu of Zhou's reign (1032 BCE) at the age of one hundred and two.
Remarkably, after his passing, his appearance remained unchanged for three days, as if he were still alive. People came to pay their respects and were astounded by this phenomenon.
After Fu De's passing, the position of chief tax official was assumed by Wei Chao. However, Wei Chao proved to be corrupt and capricious, driven by an insatiable love for wealth. Holding great power and influence, he ruled with tyranny. This stark contrast inevitably reminded the populace of Zhang Fu De's upright conduct during his tenure.
One day, a poor farming family received a dream from Zhang Fu De, instructing them to arrange three large stones in their field to form the character "磊" and to worship "Doctor Zhang Fu De." Before long, their poverty turned to prosperity. The people believed it to be a blessing from the deity, leading them to jointly fund the construction of a temple and a golden statue in his honor. Many businesspeople also paid their respects to him and revered him as "Fu De Zheng Shen."
Birthday Celebrations: 2nd day of the 2nd lunar month & 15th day of the 8th lunar month.