What is The Qing 磬

Qing (chime stone) is divided into two types. One is called "Yuanqing" (round chime stone), which is round and hollow, made of copper or iron; the other is called "Bianqing" (flat chime stone), also known as "Yuqing" (jade chime stone). It is shaped like a carpenter's square with a 120° angle and made of jade.

The former is more commonly used on Taoist altars, usually placed on the left side of the scripture table. The main functions of the chime stone are to notify the gods and to dispel disasters and relieve misfortunes. On ordinary days, when Taoists or pilgrims enter the hall to pay homage, the hall keeper strikes the chime stone when they raise their heads and stand up. It is also struck in coordination with the ritual procedures when chanting scriptures in the Taoist altar.