Baishatun Gongtian Temple Introduction
During the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, the ancestors worshiped Ma Zu by inviting her into their homes, and later built a temple to honor her in the second year of the Tongzhi era, known as "Gongtian Temple". Locally, it is referred to as "Baisha Tun Ma". The exterior of Gongtian Temple is majestic, adorned with intricate and colorful decorations made of "cut and paste" technique on the roof, along with gilded eaves, exuding brilliance and grandeur. Year after year, the tradition of the Baisha Tun Ma Zu pilgrimage on foot has continued for over a century, making it even older than other existing Ma Zu pilgrimage activities in Taiwan. Beyond its religious significance, one of the charming aspects of the Baisha Tun Ma Zu pilgrimage in today's busy Taiwanese society is the warmth and human connection among the participants, free of barriers. For a long time, Baisha Tun has been remote, with its residents practicing simplicity and frugality. Each year, they undertake the arduous journey on foot to Neihu for the pilgrimage. Over time, the diligent ancestors of Baisha Tun have cultivated a spirit of perseverance and mutual support on the pilgrimage route, creating a unique cultural landscape. Today, as I walk among the Baisha Tun Ma Zu pilgrimage group, I can naturally sense a rich human warmth, a treasure passed down through generations under Ma Zu’s guidance. The pilgrimage is entirely on foot, with the holy palanquin determining its own path. Compared to the Ma Zu pilgrimage activities in other parts of Taiwan, the most talked-about aspect of the Baisha Tun Ma Zu pilgrimage is the route, which is entirely dictated by the holy palanquin. Many believers deeply trust that there are no human controls involved, believing that it is truly led by divine will towards Neihu for the pilgrimage. Under the guidance of the divine, the participants not only feel their own insignificance but also humbly observe the events around them. Especially during times of hunger, receiving items from passersby, whether it be a cup of water, a bowl of porridge, or even a warm greeting and encouraging words, deeply touches the heart. Many who join the Baisha Tun Ma Zu pilgrimage find themselves returning in the following year, because such rich cultural experiences are unique in Taiwan, making it a pilgrimage journey that every Taiwanese person must experience at least once in their lifetime.
