The followers of the Eight Trigram Sect, a religious and political movement that had gained traction in China, launched an ambitious assault on the Forbidden City in an effort to depose the Jiaqing Emperor of the Qing dynasty. The sect, rooted in animistic and Taoist beliefs, attracted a dedicated following who were increasingly discontented with the Qing government's policies and social injustices. The attack, characterized by fervent enthusiasm, was spurred by the group's desire for a new leadership that they believed would bring salvation and change to the empire's struggling populace.

On the day of the assault, loyalists rallied under Lin Qing's leadership, believing they could overthrow the emperor with a successful coup. The attackers stormed the imperial grounds with the intention of seizing power. However, the Qing forces, relatively well-prepared, quickly laid siege to the insurgents. The ensuing clash was chaotic, marked by fervent fighting, and ultimately, Lin Qing's followers were repulsed.

The failed attack had far-reaching consequences. It not only led to severe reprisals against the Eight Trigram Sect but also showcased the vulnerabilities of the Qing dynasty, which had already been facing internal conflicts and instability. The event exposed the rising dissent among certain groups in society, foreshadowing the turmoil that would continue to challenge the Qing dynasty in ensuing years. The repercussions for Lin Qing and the sect were significant, leading to increased suppression and a crackdown on similar movements across the empire.