In the heart of Beigang Town on the island of Taiwan stands Chaotian Temple, one of the oldest and most revered sanctuaries dedicated to Mazu, the sea goddess cherished by people across coastal Asia. For centuries, worshippers have flocked to this temple, seeking blessings and protection from the deity who watches over sailors and fishermen.
In the 1970s, a local resident named Tsai Fu-hsiung, born and raised beside the temple's ornate walls, felt a profound connection to Mazu's legend. Driven by curiosity and spiritual devotion, Tsai embarked on a personal quest to delve deeper into the origins of the goddess.
His journey led him across the Taiwan Strait to Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, believed to be the birthplace of Mazu herself. There, Tsai immersed himself in rich traditions and folklore, discovering a shared cultural heritage that transcended geographical boundaries.
Tsai's voyage of discovery not only deepened his understanding of Mazu's significance but also highlighted enduring connections between communities on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Through one man's exploration, the ancient legend of the sea goddess continues to inspire unity and cultural exchange, reminding us of the powerful ties that bind distant shores.
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How a temple on the island of Taiwan inspired a voyage of discovery
cgtn.com
