What is Cao Dai Religion?
Cao Dai, meaning “High Tower” or “Great Palace,” is a Vietnamese religion founded in the early 20th century in southern Vietnam. It blends teachings and elements from various major world religions, including Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity, and Islam. This unique combination reflects a belief in universal harmony and the shared spiritual truths of all faiths.
At its core, Cao Dai centers around the worship of a supreme deity, the Cao Dai, who is considered the creator of the universe. Followers believe in moral living, spiritual enlightenment, and the unity of all beings. The religion also incorporates a pantheon of saints, including figures like Victor Hugo, Joan of Arc, and Sun Yat-sen, symbolizing its inclusive and universalist nature.
History of Cao Dai Religion in Vietnam
The Cao Dai religion emerged in southern Vietnam in 1926, founded by Ngo Van Chieu, a civil servant who claimed to have received divine visions. Its establishment coincided with Vietnam’s colonial period, reflecting both spiritual yearning and a desire for national unity.
Initially, the religion gained popularity among the Vietnamese population for its inclusivity and moral teachings. Cao Dai quickly grew into a significant movement, establishing temples and attracting millions of followers. Its leadership even played a role in Vietnam’s political landscape during the mid-20th century. Despite challenges during periods of war and government suppression, Cao Dai remains a vibrant and integral part of Vietnam’s religious fabric today.
Beliefs of Cao Dai
Core Philosophy: Unity of Religions
At the heart of Cao Dai is the belief that all religions share a common foundation and worship the same God. This philosophy promotes unity, peace, and harmony among different faiths, emphasizing that spiritual truths transcend cultural and religious boundaries.
Syncretism in Practice
Cao Dai incorporates teachings and practices from various global religions, creating a harmonious blend. Buddhism contributes meditation and self-cultivation, Confucianism offers moral and societal guidelines, Taoism influences its understanding of cosmic harmony, and Christianity inspires concepts of love and salvation. This unique mix reflects the universalist nature of Cao Dai.
Key Figures and Saints
Cao Dai honors a pantheon of saints that spans both religious and secular figures. Alongside traditional spiritual leaders like Buddha, Jesus Christ, and Confucius, it also venerates more unexpected figures, such as French writer Victor Hugo and Chinese revolutionary Sun Yat-sen, who are considered spiritual guides.
Spiritual Practices
Cao Dai followers focus on prayer, meditation, and self-discipline to align their lives with divine principles. The ultimate goal is to purify the soul, achieve enlightenment, and ultimately reunite with the supreme God.
Rituals and Practices
Daily Worship
Cao Dai ceremonies occur four times daily, starting at 6 a.m. and continuing every six hours. Prayers involve chanting, bowing, and offerings, all conducted in a serene and structured environment. Devotees often wear symbolic robes—yellow for Buddhism, blue for Taoism, and red for Confucianism—highlighting the religion’s syncretic nature.
The Great Divine Temple
The Tay Ninh Holy See, Cao Dai’s spiritual headquarters, serves as a focal point for worship. Its architecture is as symbolic as its teachings, with the “Divine Eye” representing God’s omniscience. This temple is a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand Cao Dai rituals.
Festivals and Celebrations
Key Cao Dai celebrations include the Founding Day, held annually on the 9th day of the first lunar month. Other important dates align with traditional Vietnamese festivals, where prayers, offerings, and communal gatherings reflect the faith’s vibrant spirituality.
Symbolism and Dress
The “Divine Eye,” a symbol of God’s omnipresence, is central to Cao Dai worship and temple decor. Devotees’ robes mirror the religion’s blended origins, with each color representing a spiritual tradition. The attire emphasizes unity in diversity, echoing Cao Dai’s universal message.
Cao Dai Temples
Cao Dai temples are strikingly colorful and ornate, blending architectural influences from Gothic, Buddhist, and Taoist styles. These temples are often symmetrical, with tall towers, intricate carvings, and vibrant murals depicting saints and deities. A prominent feature is the “Divine Eye,” representing God’s watchful presence, which adorns altars and temple facades. Inside, the atmosphere is serene, with rows of worshippers dressed in colorful robes aligned in perfect harmony.
1. The Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh
The Tay Ninh Holy See, also known as the Cao Dai Great Temple, is the spiritual headquarters of Cao Dai and the most iconic of all Cao Dai temples. Located about 100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, this temple is a masterpiece of Cao Dai architecture. Its grandiose design includes nine intricately decorated towers, colorful walls adorned with murals, and a stunning central hall. Visitors are particularly drawn to the vibrant prayer ceremonies held four times daily, where devotees chant in unison, creating a captivating spiritual experience.
2. Cao Dai Temple in Ho Chi Minh City
Nestled within Vietnam’s bustling metropolis, the Cao Dai temple in Ho Chi Minh City is a smaller yet equally enchanting version of Tay Ninh’s Holy See. Its colorful façade and serene interior make it a popular destination for urban explorers and those interested in spiritual architecture.
3. Cao Dai Temple in Can Tho
Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, the Can Tho Cao Dai temple offers a more tranquil experience. The temple’s modest yet vibrant design reflects the region’s simplicity while maintaining the distinct features of Cao Dai architecture.
More Cao Dai Temples in Vietnam
There are hundreds of Cao Dai temples scattered across Vietnam, reflecting the religion’s wide reach. These temples are primarily found in the southern and central regions, where Cao Dai has its strongest following. From bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City to rural towns in the Mekong Delta, you can find temples that vary in size but share the same architectural charm.
Tips for Visiting Cao Dai Temples
Dress Appropriately
When visiting a Cao Dai temple, wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing outfits, as they may be considered disrespectful. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple, so it’s a good idea to wear easy-to-remove footwear.
Attend a Ceremony
For a truly immersive experience, visit during a prayer ceremony. These ceremonies are held four times daily (6 a.m., noon, 6 p.m., and midnight). Witnessing the synchronized chanting and colorful robes of the devotees is a highlight of any visit.
Combine with a Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
If you’re visiting the Tay Ninh Holy See, consider combining it with a trip to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels. Many tour operators offer packages that cover both destinations, making it a convenient day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Timing and Respect
Plan your visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds and catch a ceremony. Always maintain a respectful demeanor, avoid loud conversations, and ask for permission before taking photos inside the temple.
