Mazu (Matsu), literally means Mother Ancestor, is the goddess of the sea. She is widely worshipped in all the coastal areas of mainland China, Taiwan, Vietnam, etc. According to legends, over a 1,000 years ago, a beautiful girl named Lin Moniang devoted all her life rescuing and helping fisherman in distress at sea.
It was said that she ascended to heaven and became immortal after her death. She was regarded as the protector of sailors and fishermen. People believed that Mazu would protect those who pray to her.
Therefore, the statues and the temples for the goddess can be found in many places. Each year, on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, the birthday of Mazu, there will be a festival held to worship the goddess.
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#1 by pimenta on May 21st, 2009
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