Daitian Temple Introduction
Tai Sheng Temple is located in Haomei Village and was originally a place of worship for local fishermen praying for safety at sea. The temple is dedicated to Mazu, the guardian deity of fishermen. The Mazu statue in Tai Sheng Temple is distinct from those in other locations, as it has been identified by the Ministry of Education as a Mazu statue from the late Ming Zheng period, with a history of over three hundred years, making it highly valuable for protection. Because of this, Tai Sheng Temple is not only revered by local devotees but also a precious historical site admired by worshippers from all over the world. Inside the temple, there is a Mazu statue known as "Wanggang Mazu," also referred to as "Yamen Mazu." During the Dutch colonial period, a Mazu temple was destroyed by flooding, and Dutch soldiers brought the Mazu statue to the fort. The term "Yamen" was used to refer to the offices of the rulers, hence the name "Yamen Mazu." Today, the base of the Mazu statue has a hole, and it is said that Mazu provides remedies for patients through mediums. In cases of difficult illnesses, Mazu directs the digging of a small piece from the base to serve as a medicinal aid, resulting in patients regaining their health. This is the origin of the saying “Wanggang Mazu cures by cutting flesh.” Tai Sheng Temple hosts various festivals each year, the most grand and well-known of which is the "Sea Offering Ceremony" held every March in the lunar calendar. During this event, Tai Sheng Temple organizes activities inviting Mazu from Puzi Peitian Temple and Budai Antian Temple to participate in the maritime ceremony. A fleet of fishing boats filled with devout worshippers sways on the ocean, praying for Mazu to bless fishermen and villagers with safety in the coming year. The fragrance of incense rises into the air, creating a solemn and touching atmosphere, making it one of the most famous religious cultural events in the area today.
