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Baisha Dun Gongtian Palace

2019-08-05
886-37-792058
During the Qianlong period of the Qing dynasty, early immigrants invited the Soft-Bodied Mazu to be enshrined in their homes. Later, in the second year of the Xianfeng reign (1853), a temple was built for worship, which became known as "Gongtian Temple" or "White Sand Mazu" by locals. The exterior of Gongtian Temple is majestic, with intricate and colorful glazed tile decorations on the roof and golden exterior renovations, shining brightly. The annual pilgrimage of White Sand Mazu on foot has been ongoing for over a century. Compared to other existing Mazu pilgrimages in Taiwan, this activity has a longer history. Beyond the religious significance, in today's busy Taiwanese society, another captivating aspect of the White Sand Mazu pilgrimage on foot is the profound human touch among participants, where people from all walks of life come together without barriers. For a long time, White Sand Mazu was located in a remote area, and residents lived simple and frugal lives. As a result, they had to undertake the arduous journey to Beitou on foot every year. Over time, the simple and honest people of White Sand Mazu developed a spirit of perseverance and mutual support on the pilgrimage route, forming a unique cultural landscape. Today, as we walk alongside the White Sand Mazu pilgrimage procession, we can naturally feel a rich and profound human touch, a treasure passed down through generations under Mazu's guidance. The entire journey is on foot, and the deity's palanquin determines its route. Compared to other Mazu pilgrimages in Taiwan, the White Sand Mazu pilgrimage is most notable for its route, which is entirely decided by the deity's palanquin. Many devotees deeply believe that there are no human factors controlling this process, and that it is truly guided by the deity's will to lead the pilgrimage to Beitou. Under the guidance of the deity, devotees not only realize their own insignificance but also humbly notice the events around them. Especially when exhausted and hungry, receiving items from strangers, such as a cup of water, a bowl of porridge, or even a warm inquiry or words of encouragement, leaves a deep impression. Many people join the White Sand Mazu pilgrimage procession and return the following year because such a rich cultural landscape is unique in Taiwan. It is a pilgrimage that every Taiwanese person must experience at least once in their lifetime.
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