Baimazun Wang Temple Introduction
In addition to the Matsu Temple in Magong, another religious center for the residents of Matsu is undoubtedly the Baima Zunwang Temple. Matsu, apart from its historical and cultural heritage, has its cuisine and architecture deeply influenced by Fuzhou. Even the most important deity, Baima Zunwang, is also a transferred deity from Fuzhou. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Baima Zunwang was first transferred to Nangan and Beigan, and then to Dongyin, and is currently the most commonly worshiped deity in the Matsu archipelago. The total number of temples built by residents on various islands, or the home altars dedicated to Baima Zunwang, even surpasses that of Mazu. Some temples have combined worship of Baima Zunwang with Mazu, while others have other deities. Among them, the Baima Zunwang Temple in Jieshou Village, Nangan is particularly beloved by the community, as it uniquely hosts seven deities together. There are many miraculous tales associated with Baima Zunwang that have solidified the faith of the people. Although the residents of the Matsu archipelago no longer rely on fishing for their livelihood, Baima Zunwang's status as the "guardian deity of maritime disasters" remains steadfast.
