Tin Hau
/ˌtiːn ˈhaʊ/noun
Tin Hau is a Cantonese title for Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess and protector of sailors.
Did you know?Tin Hau temples preserve the cult of Mazu, a Fujianese sea goddess whose worship spread widely through maritime trade and migration.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Chinese
Chinese
天后
““Heavenly Empress” or “Empress of Heaven”; a title formed from 天, “heaven,” and 后, “empress” or “ruler.””
Middle Chinese
Middle Chinese
天后
“The written title continued to mean “Heavenly Empress,” including as an imperial and religious designation.”
12th Century
Chinese
天后
“The title became associated with Mazu as imperial recognition of the sea goddess’s protective powers expanded.”
19th Century
Cantonese
Tin Hau
“Cantonese pronunciation of 天后, used especially for Mazu and for temples dedicated to her.”
Modern English
English
Tin Hau
“An established English name for Mazu, her worship, and places or institutions named after her.”
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