The belief in Mazu has spread throughout the coastal regions of Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong,

Hainan, the Shandong Peninsula, and Tianjin.

It has also been transmitted to Taiwan, the Ryukyu Islands, mainland Japan, Singapore,

and beyond by immigrants from these areas.

Originally named Lin Moniang, Mazu is also known as the Heavenly holy Mother（天上聖母）,

and by several other titles.

Mazu's story began in 960 AD on Meizhou Island, where she was born to the Lin family.

From a young age, she was said to displayed supernatural abilities, leading a life devoted

to spiritual practice.

Renowned for her intelligence and taciturn nature, she was a practitioner of both Taoism

and Buddhism who is said to have used her deep spiritual insights and powers to predict

and influence the fortunes and misfortunes of sailors and fishermen, guiding them away

from storms and leading them to safety.