Baima Zunwang Temple Introduction
In addition to Mazu Tianhou Temple, another religious center for Matsu residents is undoubtedly the Baima Zunwang Temple. Matsu, besides its historical culture, is also deeply influenced by Fuzhou in terms of cuisine and architecture. Even the local most important deity, "Baima Zunwang," is a branch worshipped from Fuzhou. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Baima Zunwang was first worshipped in Nanbei Yan in Fujian, then in Dongyin, and is currently the most commonly worshipped deity across the Matsu Islands. The number of temples built by residents on each island, as well as those erected in homes for worship, may even surpass that of Mazu. Some temples worship Baima Zunwang together with Mazu, while others are enshrined with different deities. Among them, the Baima Zunwang Temple in Jiashou Village, Nanbei Yan is particularly favored by the people, as it uniquely gathers seven deities in one place. There are many miraculous stories about Baima Zunwang that have reinforced the people's faith. Although the residents of the Matsu Islands no longer rely on fishing for their livelihood, the deity's status as the "Guardian of Maritime Disasters" remains unshaken.
