Baima Zunwang Temple Introduction
Apart from Matsu Tianhou Temple, another religious center for Matsu residents is undoubtedly the Baima Zunwang Temple. Matsu, in addition to its historical culture, is also profoundly influenced by Fuzhou in terms of cuisine and architecture. The local primary deity, “Baima Zunwang,” was also originally worshiped in Fuzhou. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the cult of Baima Zunwang spread from Fujian to the northern and southern parts of Gan, and then to Dongyin. Currently, Baima Zunwang is the most commonly worshiped deity across the Matsu Islands, with the total number of temples built by residents on various islands, as well as those worshipped at home, even surpassing that of Mazu. Some temples worship Mazu together with Baima Zunwang, while others do so alongside other deities. Notably, the Baima Zunwang Temple in Jieshou Village on Nangan Island is well-loved by the people, as it uniquely houses seven deities in one place. There are also many miracles attributed to Baima Zunwang, further solidifying the faith of the people. Although the residents of the Matsu Islands no longer rely on fishing for their livelihood, Baima Zunwang's status as the “guardian deity of maritime disasters” remains steadfast.
