Gen Z Youths Bridge the Gap in Taiwan Straits Through Mazu Culture
In a remarkable demonstration of cultural unity, over 120 young people from both sides of the Taiwan Straits participated in a hiking pilgrimage to Meizhou Island, East China. This event, part of the third Quanzhou-Taiwan Mazu Youth Culture Festival, centered on honoring the beloved sea goddess, Mazu, who is deeply revered in the region's maritime traditions.
The participants, including ten youths who carried solemn statues of Mazu, walked an impressive 200 kilometers, showcasing their dedication to preserving an age-old cultural heritage. The pilgrimage aimed to embody the core values associated with Mazu—virtue, compassion, and universal love.
Mazu, originally a young woman named Lin Mo believed to have lived in the 10th century, is credited with saving shipwreck victims and helping those in need. Her legacy has woven itself into the cultural fabric of coastal Chinese communities, strengthening family bonds and social unity. Recognized by UNESCO, the Mazu faith has a global presence, boasting over 300 million followers and 10,000 temples worldwide.
With the rich tradition flourishing particularly in Taiwan, where two-thirds of the population reportedly practices Mazu beliefs through over 3,000 temples, the cultural festival served as a vital platform for youth from both sides to connect. Professor Yu Minghua from Putian University noted a surge in youthful participation in cultural exchanges, enhancing the sense of a 'Mazu cultural circle' that promotes understanding and friendship.
The event is not solely a tribute to tradition; it reflects a transformation as young people creatively reinterpret Mazu's significance. Zhou Lifei, an associate researcher at the Putian Mazu Culture Research Institute, highlighted how Generation Z is integrating Mazu culture into modern life, expanding its relevance from traditional prayers for fishermen to broader life aspects such as education and marriage.
Sun Zixuan, director of the Yibanxiang Mazu Exhibition Hall, one of the event's organizers, emphasized the festival's goal of presenting rich traditional culture while preserving Mazu's heritage. The pilgrimage provided an avenue for mutual support and deeper cultural exchanges—an encouraging sign of cross-Straits unity.
Trevor Kuo Hsuan Hao, a participant from Taipei, expressed that his pilgrimage experience has made him feel at home, reinforcing the idea of shared beliefs creating familial bonds across regions. This sentiment resonates with many attendees, who utilize both Hokkien and Putonghua to communicate, further highlighting cultural connections.
The younger generations have also taken to innovative forms of engagement. Zheng Zilin, a student from Putian University, has even designed a game inspired by Mazu's stories, allowing players to explore the goddess’s messages of love and peace. Similarly, in Taiwan, Mazu's stories are being adapted into various creative products, including literature and animation, showcasing the cultural wealth that can stem from these traditions.
Thus, as Mazu remains a common thread for people across the Taiwan Straits, the active involvement and fresh perspectives of youth redefine the future of this cherished faith, ensuring its continued relevance and evolution in a modern context.