Baimatun Wang Temple Introduction
In addition to Matsu Tianhou Temple, another significant center of belief for the residents of Matsu is Baima Zunwang Temple. Matsu, aside from its historical culture, has its cuisine and architecture deeply influenced by Fuzhou. Even the most important deity in the area, Baima Zunwang, is derived from a branch worship in Fuzhou. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was first worshiped in Nangan and Beigan, and then subdivided to Dongyin. Currently, it is the most commonly worshiped deity across the Matsu Islands, with the total number of temples built by residents on each island, or in private homes, even surpassing that of Mazu. Some are enshrined together with Mazu in Tianhou Temple, while others are worshiped alongside various other deities. Among them, the Baima Zunwang Temple in Jieshou Village of Nangan is particularly favored by the people, as it uniquely hosts seven deities together. There are numerous miraculous legends about Baima Zunwang, which further reinforce the faith of the people. Although the residents of the Matsu Islands no longer rely on fishing for their livelihood, its status as the "Guardian Deity of Maritime Disasters" remains unshaken.
