Zhu Bei Tian Hou Temple Introduction
Zhubei Tianhou Temple enshrines the main deity, Mazu, in the form of the only mud sculpture gold body in Taiwan. The temple's site was formerly known as Douzai Pu, which corresponds to the present areas of Zhubei Li, Zhuren Li, and Zhuyi Li. The name of the area originates from the settlement's location upstream of the Xinzhuangzi Irrigation Channel, where water is not easily accessible. In the past, after reclaiming the barren land, only leguminous crops could be cultivated, thus it was called "Douzai Pu." Due to the difficulty of farming, many residents engaged in fishing. When the ancestors first came to Taiwan by crossing the sea, they invoked the patron deity of home and navigation, Mazu, to seek peace and protection for the community. At that time, the Qing Dynasty strictly enforced maritime bans, making it impossible for families to come together, whether through illegal means or legal immigration, leading to great uncertainty among the people. Fortunately, Mazu's benevolent influence and divine protection became a spiritual belief for the ancestors. For over a century, every Lantern Festival, devotees have sought to set up tents for the Peace and Blessing Ceremony to express gratitude for Mazu's divine grace. This religious activity continues to this day and has become a characteristic of the Tianhou Temple.
