Is there any reason why we use the left hand to offer incense

and always place the first incense in the middle? (40)

The left hand symbolizes kindness and would not hold knives or

hit others; that is why we use the left hand to offer incense.  We

always place the first incense in the middle because the doctrine

of Tien-Tao is to achieve “Centre” and “Oneness”.  Centre means

not bent or not leaning.  Oneness means there is only one Truth and

nothing else.  Centre and Oneness represent the essence of Tao.  To

place the first incense in the middle during the incense offering

symbolizes the establishment of the essence of Tao.  Centre could

also mean oneself because besides Heaven and Earth, mankind is

the greatest.  All matters and lives between Heaven and Earth are

subjected to mankind’s governing.  Thus one becomes the centre

wherever he goes.  For example, if one stands east of a city, the

city is in the west.  However, if one stands south of the city, the

city is in the north.  The city remains stationary while its relative

orientation changes.  The reason the orientation changes is because

one has moved.  That is why no one should feel that he is insignificant.