In the heart of Beigang Town on the island of Taiwan, the Chaotian Temple stands as one of the oldest and most revered temples dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. This sacred site has not only been a place of worship but also the starting point of a remarkable journey that bridges the Taiwan Strait.
In the 1970s, Tsai Fu-hsiung, a resident born and raised beside the Chaotian Temple, became captivated by the legend of Mazu. Driven by curiosity and a deep spiritual connection, Tsai embarked on a voyage of discovery to uncover the roots of the sea goddess who had been a central figure in his community.
Tsai's quest led him across the Taiwan Strait to Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, believed to be the birthplace of Mazu. There, he delved deeper into the history and traditions surrounding the goddess, uncovering stories that intertwined the destinies of people on both sides of the strait.
Tsai Fu-hsiung's journey not only illuminated the shared cultural heritage between the island of Taiwan and the Chinese mainland but also highlighted the enduring power of faith to connect communities across geographical and political divides.
Today, the story of Chaotian Temple and Tsai's voyage continues to inspire many, serving as a testament to the unifying force of tradition and spirituality in the region.
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How a temple on the island of Taiwan inspired a voyage of discovery
cgtn.com
