Tian-hou Mazu (Heavenly Empress Mazu, Chinese trad. 天文 ⁇ 学) — gods of the sea in late Chinese mythology. Its cult originated in the 10th-11th centuries. Tien-hou is depicted sitting on waves, clouds, or a throne. She has two assistants: one has a hand attached to her ear, the other is raised to her eyes.
According to legend, the prototype of Mazu was a girl from a fishing village named Lin, who lived in 960, who knew how to swim on the sea on a mat and cross to the islands on clouds. She flew to rescue brothers in distress at sea.
When, at the age of 28, she ascended to heaven, all movements of water became completely subject to her. If Mazu orders, floods and typhoons will subside. But if she pleases, the elements may rage again. In 1156, by order of the emperor, a temple was erected in her honor. The sovereigns awarded her magnificent titles. From the 13th century, it began to be called Tianfei (Heavenly Concubine), and from the late 17th century — Tian-hou.
Today, Mazu connects Chinese living in the country and abroad. According to a rough estimate, the goddess is worshiped by over 200 million people in different parts of the world. The sailors consider her their patroness. The birthday of the goddess Mazu falls on the 23rd day of the third month of the lunar calendar. Most people prefer to make pilgrimages a few days before this date.
The Tian-hou cult is especially popular in Fujian, Taiwan. Temples in her honor were also built in Vietnam (in the city of Ho Chi Minh City).