The Socio-Historical Foundation of Datan
Three Centuries of Lineage, Land, and Legacy
To understand the identity of the Jingzhong Temple, one must first look to the soil of Datan. As the largest village in Xingang Township by land area, Datan is a community defined by three hundred years of agricultural endurance and deep-rooted faith.
The Great Pond: A 17th-Century Origin
Historically known as "Tanzianqian" (潭子墘), Datan’s identity was forged by its geography. Situated at approximately 23°32′16″N, 120°19′44″E, this location was chosen by 17th-century settlers for its most vital resource: the "Great Pond" (Datan).
This water source didn't just dictate the settlement patterns of migrant clans—it ensured their survival and eventual prosperity in a rugged landscape.
A Lineage of Loyalty: The Lin Clan
The soul of Datan remains a stronghold of the Lin Clan, descendants of migrants from Nanjing County (南靖縣), Fujian Province. They brought with them more than just farming techniques; they brought the martial and filial values of Yue Fei.
This created a rare "Lineage Deity" (宗族神) dynamic at the Jingzhong Temple. Unlike the heterogeneous urban temples of today, Datan offers a uniquely authentic atmosphere where faith and family bloodlines are one and the same.
The Guardian of Lost History
Datan’s narrative is also one of remarkable resilience. During the Japanese colonial era, the village became a sanctuary during the "San Zhuang" (dissolution) of neighboring settlements like Haifeng Village.
By absorbing the spirits and deities of these disbanded communities, the Jingzhong Temple evolved into a protector of regional history. This capacity to preserve heritage—even that which does not strictly belong to the Lin clan—makes the temple a pillar of strength for the entire Xingang region.
Datan at a Glance
| Indicator | Detail | Strategic Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Total Area | 7.7359 km² | Xingang’s largest village; a regional anchor. |
| Households | 458 | A tight-knit community built on family legacy. |
| Primary Lineage | Lin Clan | Authentic "Lineage Deity" (Yue Fei) traditions. |
| Historical Role | Heritage Preserver | Sanctuary for deities of disbanded neighboring villages. |
Did You Know?
"Datan’s role as a "cultural lifeboat" means it preserves rituals and deities from villages that no longer exist on the map today. To visit the Jingzhong Temple is to witness the collective memory of the entire region.