Qianliyan (Thousand-Mile Eye)

Qianliyan is one of the two chief generals serving before Mazu. Legend holds that Mazu Lin Moniang subdued a demon causing havoc on Taohua Mountain northwest of Meizhou; this demon possessed eyes capable of seeing a thousand miles—and upon being subdued by Mazu’s spiritual power, he surrendered and entered her service as her vanguard. After Mazu’s ascension to heaven, Qianliyan remained constantly at her side, enabling her to survey the four seas and rescue fishermen caught in maritime disasters: whenever someone was endangered at sea, Qianliyan would first spot their plight with his extraordinary vision, whereupon Mazu would personally rush to their aid. In Mazu temples across the region, Qianliyan is typically sculpted as a fierce, green-faced, golden-armored figure, hand raised as a visor while gazing far into the distance, standing beside Mazu’s altar—paired with Shunfeng’er (Fair-Wind Ear), who governs hearing, thus dividing the duties of sight and sound. Before setting sail, fishermen invariably worship him, praying that he will discern treacherous winds and waves and guide them safely home.