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Tianshang Shengmu (Mazu)
｜Photo: The Wondrous Temple Expedition｜
Tianshang Shengmu is a popular deity in Taiwan, also known as Mazu. Legend has it that when Mazu was born, she did not cry at all, hence she was named ‘mo,’ the Chinese character for silent. Her name was Lin Moniang.
Mazu was born in a fishing village at Meizhou, Fujian province. Before her passing away, she had saved fishermen on the sea, and even after she passed away, she still prayed for the safety of the villagers.
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Fun Facts
｜Photo: The Wondrous Temple Expedition｜
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Legend has it that Mazu defeated two monsters and made them her sidekicks. One of them had the ability to see all things in the universe, and the other one had the ability to hear everything. They helped Mazu detecting distress calls from the sea, and that’s why Mazu was able to rescue countless fishermen in distress, earning her the title ‘Goddess of the Sea.’
Mazu was well known in China, Jinmen Island, Mazu Island, and Taiwan. Legend has it that the name Mazu Island came from Mazu. When Mazu’s father went fishing, he died in the sea. Mazu risked her life to carry her father’s body back. However, Mazu did not make it ashore. Mazu and her father’s bodies were both washed ashore. The villagers built a temple to commemorate her heroic act, and her sarcophagus is still placed under the alter at Mazu Temple. People changed the name of the island to Mazu, but with different characters, to show their respect.
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Text and pictures: Amber Wang│ Photos: The Wondrous Temple Expedition │
Reference: National Religion Information Network
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