Mythology Monday: Mazu, Goddess of the Sea

Hello, and happy Monday! How was your weekend? Here we’ve been really busy! We’re currently relocating from our beloved El Paso to our new home in Virginia Beach 🏝️ We’ve been on the road now for two days, with two more to go.

I must admit, leaving our lovely city and all of our friends is painful. It’s been a long and difficult process adjusting to the idea and saying goodbye. Oh the flip side though, a new adventure awaits and I am very excited about that. Life is about change, and that can be a great thing. With that being said, moving to the beach has me thinking a lot about the sea lately. The sea has a mystical, mysterious quality to it that never fails to enchant and inspire. It isn’t a surprise that there is so much mythology revolving around it. So for our Mythology Monday, today I’ll be sharing with you the goddess Mazu, a fascinating Chinese sea goddess from the Song Dynasty.

Mazu, also known as Tianhou (Heavenly Empress), originated in the 10th century during the Song Dynasty in China. According to folklore, she was born as Lin Moniang on the island of Meizhou, off the coast of Fujian province. Born into a humble fishing family, Lin Moniang displayed extraordinary powers and compassion from a young age. She possessed the ability to predict weather patterns and sea conditions, guiding fishermen safely back to shore during treacherous storms.

One day, as a fierce typhoon threatened the fishing village, Lin Moniang (said to be only 16 years old) ventured into the stormy sea to save her father and brother, who were caught in the tempest. Despite the perilous conditions, she miraculously rescued them, and news of her heroic deeds spread far and wide. It is said that after this courageous act, she transformed into the goddess Mazu, becoming the divine protector of sailors and fishermen.

Mazu is often depicted as a benevolent and youthful goddess, donning a flowing red robe and holding various maritime symbols like a compass, a dragon staff, or a lotus blossom. She embodies qualities such as compassion, bravery, and wisdom, making her an ideal figure to invoke for protection during sea voyages.

One of the most interesting legends surrounding Mazu tells of when the demons Qianlinyan (“Thousand-Mile Eye”) and Shungfenger (“Wind-Following Ear”) fell in love with her and both wanted to marry her. She agreed that she would marry whoever could defeat her in combat. She then used her martial arts skills and defeated them both. They became friends and agreed to become her bodyguards.

Throughout history, countless temples dedicated to Mazu have been erected along coastlines, especially in Taiwan. These temples serve as centers of worship and pilgrimage for both locals and seafarers seeking her blessings. Every year, spectacular festivals are held to honor Mazu, attracting thousands of devotees who engage in colorful processions, performances, and maritime rituals.

Moreover, Mazu’s significance extends to the modern world. As the patron goddess of seafarers, her divine protection is sought by countless sailors, fishermen, and maritime workers globally. Her image can be found on ships, fishing boats, and even naval vessels, serving as a talisman to ensure safe journeys across the unpredictable seas.

What do you think about this fascinating goddess? I love myths involving sea gods and goddesses, making the tempestuous oceans their homes and surfacing just long enough to save or smote the ships crossing their path. If you’re visiting the beach this summer take a second and imagine Mazu perched upon the waves, empress of her watery domain.

Have a fantastic Monday, talk soon!

-Winter