The Grand Procession of Mazu, also known as the Mazu Pilgrimage, is a religious event that takes place annually in Taiwan. It is a large-scale procession that involves the transportation of a statue of the goddess Mazu, also known as the Heavenly Queen, around various towns and cities in Taiwan.
Who is Mazu
Mazu, also known as the Heavenly Queen or the Sea Goddess, is a deity worshiped in Taiwan and other coastal regions in East Asia. According to legend, she was a mortal woman named Lin Mo Niang who lived in the Fujian province of China during the 10th century. Lin Mo Niang was born into a family of fishermen and was known for her kindness, bravery, and healing powers. She was said to have been able to predict the weather and to have rescued many sailors and fishermen from danger. After her death, Lin Mo Niang was deified as Mazu and began to be worshiped as a goddess of the sea. Her belief spread throughout China and eventually to other parts of East Asia, including Taiwan.
Mazu is one of the most popular deities in Taiwan, where her worship is deeply ingrained in the local culture and tradition. The Grand Procession of Mazu is one of the most important religious events in Taiwan, attracting millions of devotees and visitors every year.
The procession typically takes place during the month of March or April and lasts for several weeks. The statue of Mazu is carried on a palanquin by a group of devotees, who are known as "palanquin bearers." The palanquin is accompanied by a large number of other devotees, who march along with the procession and perform various religious rituals.
The Grand Procession of Mazu is an important event for many Taiwanese people, who believe that the procession brings good luck and fortune. It is also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the colorful and lively spectacle. Throughout the procession, devotees offer prayers and burn incense, while local communities set up elaborate altars and decorations to welcome the goddess. The event is also marked by a variety of traditional performances, including music, dance, and theater.
Why the Dajia Matsu Pilgrimage successfully attracts many non-believers to make a pilgrimage from other counties and cities?
The first main reason is Taiwan's unique sense of hospitality.
The route of the Dajia Matsu Pilgrimage is fixed, and along the way, residents voluntarily set up snack stations in front of their homes, using their own money to cheer on and support the participating pilgrims. The people providing food and drink are not seeking anything in return, but instead, are carrying on the tradition of Taiwanese hospitality that has been passed down from generation to generation. On the outward journey, only vegetarian food is provided, but after the grand birthday ceremony, meat dishes are allowed. The snacks available at the stations are diverse and feature unique local flavors, such as pan-fried rice cakes and rice noodle soup, which are guaranteed to be delicious and authentic. From morning until night, there is no need to worry about going hungry. Along the way, many convenience stores and supermarkets also provide boxes of mineral water and sports drinks for free, and locals from other counties and cities ride or drive along the pilgrimage route to offer food or "bonding gifts" to the pilgrims. Many homes and businesses also open their doors to allow pilgrims to use their restrooms and take breaks.
The second reason is free participation with low barriers to attend.
The Dajia Tianhou Palace welcomes the general public to participate and publicly announces the detailed pilgrimage route and expected time of arrival, especially during the daytime return journey when the route is mostly near the Taiwan Railways station, which enhances convenience. People who want to experience it do not need to register or have any specific purpose; they can join if they are interested. The official app even allows users to track the location of the palanquin procession, and plan a "one-day experience" tour according to their own convenient date, time, and transportation method. There is no need to prepare any permit, just follow the main group and pay attention to personal safety and physical condition.
In addition to its religious and cultural significance, the Grand Procession of Mazu also serves as a reminder of Taiwan's rich history and heritage. It is a celebration of the country's unique blend of traditional beliefs and modern culture, and a testament to the enduring power of faith and devotion.
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