A temple to the sea goddess Mazu has become a focal point in Taiwan's debate over engagement with China. Temple leader Chen Ming‑kun urges cross‑strait peace, but his ties to China raise concerns about political influence. As Beijing steps up pressure, Taiwan is countering with outreach to religious communities to resist infiltration. Many worshippers object, saying faith shouldn't be politicized.

How China uses religion for political influence in Taiwan

Rik Glauert in Taichung, Taiwan

As China tries to advance its territorial claims over Taiwan, it seems to be using religion to vie for political influence on the island. DW's Rik Glauert reports.

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YOURDEMOCRACY.NET RECORDS HISTORY AS IT SHOULD BE — NOT AS THE WESTERN MEDIA WRONGLY REPORTS IT — SINCE 2005.

         Gus Leonisky

         POLITICAL CARTOONIST SINCE 1951.

IT MIGHT TAKE ANOTHER 50 YEARS BUT TAIWAN WILL REJOIN THE MAINLAND OF CHINA EVENTUALLY... THE FUTURE THERE IS CHINESE, NOT WITH THE DECREPIT DANGEROUS DEGENERATING DEBAUCHED AMERICAN EMPIRE....

Mazu, revered as a sea goddess in both China and Taiwan, has a legendary narrative that spans millennia. Born as Lin Mo-niang in 960 AD in Meizhou Bay, Fujian Province, her birth was considered a celestial miracle: legends tell of resplendent purple light appearing in the sky and fragrant waves on the sea, signifying her extraordinary destiny. As the daughter of fishermen, Mazu developed a profound bond with the ocean from an early age. Her selfless spirit and courageous deeds have been celebrated throughout history. Time and again, amidst fierce storms and towering waves, Mazu stood forth to rescue countless vessels and sailors, becoming a symbol of protection, bravery, and miracles. Her legend has been passed down not only through oral traditions but also meticulously documented in historical texts, making her an integral part of maritime culture.

Mazu’s legend extends beyond tales of rescuing ships and sailors; she is also believed to possess the ability to foresee the future. In many legends, Mazu can predict the approach of storms through dreams and visions, warning fishermen to seek shelter in advance. These miracles further cemented her status as a guardian deity of the sea, leading to the rapid spread of her worship along coastal regions. Mazu’s story bridges different eras and cultures, serving as a crucial link between the ancient and the modern, tradition and faith.

https://mazuau.com/about-mazu