Matsu's Birthday in Taiwan

Day:

Matsu's Birthday, also known as the Goddess of the Sea's Birthday, is celebrated on the 23rd day of the third lunar month each year. As the lunar calendar varies, the exact date in the Gregorian calendar shifts annually.

History:

Matsu (Mazu) is a revered deity in Taiwanese culture, originating from China's Fujian Province. According to legend, she was born as Lin Moniang in 960 AD and became known for her extraordinary ability to predict storms and her efforts to save those at sea. After her death, she was deified and has since been worshipped as a goddess protecting fishermen and sailors.

Traditions:

On Matsu's Birthday, devotees across Taiwan participate in a variety of religious and festive activities to honor her:

• Temple Visits: Many followers visit temples dedicated to Matsu to pray for safety, health, and fortune. Temples are often adorned with decorations for this special occasion.

• Parades: Religious parades featuring statues of Matsu are common. These statues are carried through streets so that Matsu can inspect and bless the local area.

• Offerings: Worshippers make offerings such as incense, food, and paper money at temples or home altars.

• Pilgrimages: Some believers embark on pilgrimages to significant temples dedicated to Matsu. The Dajia Jenn Lann Temple in Taichung is one of the most famous sites for such pilgrimages.

• Cultural Performances: Traditional performances including operas or storytelling may take place, celebrating the life and miracles attributed to Matsu.

What People Do:

People engage in various acts of devotion such as visiting temples or participating in processions that might include carrying palanquins or performing lion dances. Families gather for meals, sometimes enjoying special dishes associated with festivities. Many also take this opportunity to seek blessings for their loved ones or businesses by consulting with temple mediums or participating in communal prayers.