Mazu fever grips Taiwan annually around the start of the year. This celebration of the birth of the Goddess Mazu falls in the third month of the lunar calendar. Over roughly two weeks, millions of people take part in spectacular religious ceremonies and events to mark the occasion. The celebrations demonstrate the intensity of devotion to Mazu in Taiwan, where Mazu temples number more than 1,000 nationwide. Mazu has more believers than any other god in Taiwan. So who is the Goddess Mazu? Historical records show she was a real person. Today on Taiwan History, we explore the story behind this major religious phenomenon.
Three hundred years ago, the god Xuanwu was superseded by Mazu and Lord Guan, and the Qing dynasty elevated Mazu to “Empress of Heaven.” When Chinese migrants began making the perilous journey to Taiwan in the 17th century, they almost all relied on Mazu for protection. This reliance was an important foundation for her popularity. In the next segment, we look at how the worship of Mazu expanded in Taiwan.
Mazu pilgrimages have attracted much attention in recent years, with up to 4 million people attending such events every year. Mazu tours an area, and her believers follow on foot. Many prostrate themselves under her sedan, asking for protection. It’s a touchingly sincere ceremony. The culture of Mazu worship has now been designated an intangible item of National Cultural Heritage. It’s not just a religion; it’s also a vehicle for many historic traditions.
