In this thought-provoking episode, the hosts delve into the fascinating topic of the Chinese Communist Party's influence on the worship of Ma Zu, a revered sea goddess in Taiwan. Despite being an atheist party, the hosts explore how the Chinese Communist Party has strategically embraced Ma Zu as a tool of influence and soft power. To gain a deeper understanding, the hosts take listeners on a journey to a Ma Zu procession in Taiwan, where they have insightful conversations with believers and temple leaders about the political implications of this worship. They also shed light on the party's efforts to utilize Ma Zu to promote Chinese culture and identity, particularly in relation to Taiwan. Through this exploration, the episode uncovers the intricate and complex relationship between religion, politics, and identity in the context of cross-strait relations. Prepare to be captivated by this exploration of the intersection of faith, power, and cultural identity.

Taiwan is transfixed by Mazu. The tenth-century maiden lived in Fujian province–and according to legend, used her mystical powers to save relatives in a shipwreck. After she died she was venerated as a sea goddess. Despite her mainland roots, Mazu is worshipped widely in Taiwan. The Chinese government views Mazu as a tool to win Taiwanese hearts and minds.

The Economist’s senior China correspondent, Alice Su, meets devotees at a Mazu procession in Yuanlin, central Taiwan, and speaks to worshippers at a temple in Taipei which participates in pilgrimages to the mainland. Alice and The Economist’s Beijing bureau chief, David Rennie, discuss whether the Communist Party’s plan to use Mazu will help it win over Taiwan. 

Sign up to our weekly newsletter here and for full access to print, digital and audio editions, as well as exclusive live events, subscribe to The Economist at economist.com/drumoffer.

We would love to hear from you. Please fill out our updated listener survey at economist.com/podcastsurvey

---

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.