Vietnamese mythology is a complex and multifaceted system of beliefs that has developed over millennia, incorporating elements from indigenous traditions, neighboring cultures, and religious practices. Unlike Western mythologies that often focus on a pantheon of gods and goddesses, Vietnamese mythology is deeply rooted in the natural world, with a significant emphasis on ancestor worship, spirits, and the interaction between humans and the environment. The mythology encompasses a wide range of stories, from creation myths to heroic legends, each serving to reinforce the values, history, and identity of the Vietnamese people.
Vietnamese mythology is not just a collection of ancient stories; it is a living tradition that continues to influence the cultural and spiritual life of the Vietnamese people. Festivals, rituals, and daily practices often draw upon these myths, making them an integral part of the cultural fabric. The mythology is also a reflection of the country’s history, marked by centuries of foreign rule, wars, and struggles for independence, which have shaped the themes of resilience, loyalty, and the importance of community.
Vietnam’s mythology has been profoundly influenced by its historical interactions with China, which ruled Vietnam for over a thousand years. During this period, Chinese Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism were introduced to Vietnam, leading to the syncretism of these beliefs with local traditions. For example, many Vietnamese myths incorporate elements of Chinese mythology, such as the Jade Emperor (Ngọc Hoàng), who appears in both Vietnamese and Chinese myths as the ruler of the heavens. However, Vietnamese mythology retains its distinct character, particularly in its emphasis on the natural world and the spirit of the land.
The influence of Buddhism is particularly evident in Vietnamese mythology. Buddhism was introduced to Vietnam in the second century CE and has since become one of the major religions in the country. Many Vietnamese myths reflect Buddhist themes, such as the concept of karma, reincarnation, and the importance of compassion and humility. For instance, the story of the goddess Quan Âm, who is a Vietnamese adaptation of the Buddhist bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, emphasizes the virtues of mercy and compassion, which are central to Buddhist teachings.
Origins of Vietnamese Mythology
One of the most prominent creation myths in Vietnamese mythology is the tale of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ, which is often cited as the origin of the Vietnamese people. Lạc Long Quân, a dragon lord, and Âu Cơ, a mountain fairy, are said to have given birth to a hundred sons, who are considered the ancestors of the Vietnamese. This myth is deeply symbolic, representing the unity of the land and water—key elements in Vietnam’s geography. The descendants of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ are believed to have spread throughout the country, establishing the first Vietnamese tribes. This myth also highlights the theme of divine ancestry, which is a common motif in many cultures, underscoring the sacred origins of the nation.
Another significant creation myth is that of Thần Trụ Trời, the deity responsible for separating the heavens from the earth. According to the myth, Thần Trụ Trời used a massive pillar to lift the sky, creating space for the earth to form below. This myth not only explains the physical formation of the world but also reflects the Vietnamese belief in the interconnectedness of all things. The creation of the world is seen as a harmonious act, where divine forces work together to bring balance and order to the universe.
Major Deities and Mythological Figures
The Four Immortals
The Four Immortals—Tản Viên Sơn Thánh, Phù Đổng Thiên Vương, Chử Đồng Tử, and Liễu Hạnh Công Chúa—are central figures in Vietnamese mythology, each representing different virtues and aspects of Vietnamese culture:
- Tản Viên Sơn Thánh: Often associated with the Ba Vì Mountain range, Tản Viên Sơn Thánh is revered as the god of the mountains and protector of the Vietnamese people. His legend is closely linked to the story of his marriage to Mỵ Nương, a princess, which symbolizes the union of human and divine realms. Tản Viên Sơn Thánh is also considered a guardian against natural disasters, such as floods and storms, which are common in Vietnam’s mountainous regions. His worship is still prevalent today, particularly among communities living near the Ba Vì Mountains, where annual festivals are held in his honor.
- Phù Đổng Thiên Vương (Thánh Gióng): Thánh Gióng is one of the most celebrated heroes in Vietnamese mythology. According to legend, he was born as an ordinary child but miraculously grew into a giant warrior overnight to defend Vietnam from invaders. Riding an iron horse and wielding bamboo as a weapon, Thánh Gióng led the Vietnamese to victory and then ascended to the heavens, becoming a divine protector. His story is a powerful symbol of patriotism and the collective strength of the Vietnamese people in times of crisis. The Gióng Festival, which takes place annually in the Sóc Sơn district near Hanoi, commemorates his heroic deeds and attracts thousands of participants.
- Chử Đồng Tử: Known as the “naked sage,” Chử Đồng Tử is a symbol of spiritual awakening and humility. His story is one of poverty turned into spiritual richness. According to legend, Chử Đồng Tử was a poor fisherman who lived with his father by the Red River. After his father’s death, he was left with nothing but a loincloth. One day, he encountered a princess while she was bathing, and their meeting led to his spiritual enlightenment. Chử Đồng Tử is also credited with teaching the Vietnamese people important agricultural practices, particularly those related to water management and irrigation, which are crucial in a country where rice cultivation is a staple.
- Liễu Hạnh Công Chúa: Liễu Hạnh is a unique figure in Vietnamese mythology, often considered both a goddess and a folk hero. As a daughter of the Jade Emperor, she was sent to earth as a human and later became a symbol of maternal care, protection, and the empowerment of women. Her story reflects the syncretism of indigenous beliefs with Confucian values, as she is also revered as a model of filial piety and loyalty. Liễu Hạnh is worshipped in the Đạo Mẫu (Mother Goddess) tradition, which is one of the few religions indigenous to Vietnam. Temples dedicated to her can be found throughout northern Vietnam, particularly in Nam Định province, where her cult is strongest.
Other Important Figures
Beyond the Four Immortals, Vietnamese mythology features a rich pantheon of deities and spirits, each with their own distinct roles and significance:
- Mẫu Thượng Thiên: Also known as the “Mother of Heaven,” Mẫu Thượng Thiên is a central figure in the Đạo Mẫu tradition. She is considered the highest of the Mother Goddesses and is associated with the sky and the heavens. Her worship is deeply connected to the agricultural cycle, with rituals often held to pray for rain, good harvests, and protection from natural calamities. Mẫu Thượng Thiên embodies the nurturing aspect of the divine, symbolizing the protective and caring nature of motherhood.
- Cá Ông (Whale God): The worship of Cá Ông, the Whale God, is a unique aspect of Vietnamese coastal communities, particularly in the southern provinces. Fishermen believe that whales are benevolent creatures that protect them from storms and dangers at sea. The reverence for Cá Ông is so strong that when a whale is found dead, it is given a proper funeral, and its skeleton is often preserved in a temple. The Whale God is a powerful example of how Vietnamese mythology integrates natural elements into its spiritual practices, reflecting a deep respect for the environment and the creatures that inhabit it.
- Hồ Tinh (Fox Spirits): Fox spirits, or Hồ Tinh, are mythical creatures that can be either malevolent or benevolent, depending on the circumstances. In Vietnamese folklore, they are often depicted as shape-shifters who can transform into beautiful women or other forms to deceive humans. However, not all fox spirits are harmful; some are believed to bring good fortune or act as protectors. The concept of Hồ Tinh highlights the moral complexity in Vietnamese mythology, where spirits and deities are not strictly good or evil but embody a spectrum of qualities.
Notable Legends and Myths
National Legends
Vietnamese mythology is rich with legends that serve as moral lessons and historical allegories, reinforcing the values of loyalty, courage, and resilience:
- The Legend of the Magic Sword: The story of King Lê Lợi and the magical sword Thuận Thiên is one of the most famous legends in Vietnam. According to the legend, the sword was given to Lê Lợi by a divine turtle to help him defeat the Ming invaders and reclaim Vietnam’s independence. After the victory, the sword was returned to the turtle in Hoan Kiem Lake, symbolizing the divine protection over the nation. This legend is commemorated in the name of Hoan Kiem Lake, which means “Lake of the Returned Sword,” located in the heart of Hanoi. The story is not just a tale of military triumph but also emphasizes the importance of humility and returning power to the divine after it has fulfilled its purpose.
- The Legend of Bánh Chưng and Bánh Dày: This legend, closely tied to Vietnam’s agricultural traditions, tells the story of King Hùng Vương’s search for an heir. The king declared that whichever of his sons brought him the most delicious food would inherit the throne. His youngest son, Lang Liêu, a poor but virtuous prince, created two rice cakes: Bánh Chưng and Bánh Dày. Bánh Chưng is a square-shaped cake made from glutinous rice, mung beans, pork, and wrapped in dong leaves. The square shape represents the Earth, which, in ancient Vietnamese belief, was square and covered with lush green vegetation. Bánh Dày is a round, white rice cake symbolizing the sky. The use of simple ingredients and shapes embodies the harmony between heaven and earth, and the cakes themselves became symbols of gratitude, respect, and the nurturing power of the earth.
This legend is not only a fascinating story but also serves to underscore the importance of rice in Vietnamese culture. Rice is not just a staple food but a sacred gift, essential for survival and prosperity. The preparation and sharing of Bánh Chưng and Bánh Dày during the Lunar New Year have become a deeply rooted tradition, symbolizing familial bonds, respect for ancestors, and the hope for a prosperous new year.
Nature and Myth
Vietnamese mythology is deeply intertwined with the natural landscape, with many myths providing explanations for the country’s unique geographical features:
- Creation of Ha Long Bay: Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not just a stunning natural wonder but also the subject of one of Vietnam’s most famous legends. The myth tells of dragons sent by the Jade Emperor to protect Vietnam from invaders. As the dragons descended to earth, they spat out jewels and jade, which transformed into the islands and islets that dot the bay. The dragons then decided to remain in the bay, which became known as “Ha Long” or “Descending Dragon.” This legend not only explains the bay’s formation but also highlights the cultural significance of dragons in Vietnamese mythology, where they are seen as benevolent creatures associated with water and protection.
- Legend of the White Crane and the Fisherman: This poignant tale revolves around a fisherman who saves a white crane from a trap, not knowing that the crane is actually a transformed fairy. The fairy later returns to help the fisherman by bringing him wealth and happiness. However, the story ends tragically when the fairy is forced to return to the heavens, leaving the fisherman heartbroken. This myth emphasizes themes of kindness, gratitude, and the transient nature of life, reflecting the deep emotional and moral lessons embedded in Vietnamese folklore. The white crane itself is a symbol of longevity and purity in Vietnamese culture, often seen in traditional art and literature.
Cultural Significance and Legacy
Influence on Vietnamese Festivals
Vietnamese mythology plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s festivals and cultural practices. Many of these festivals are not just celebrations but also acts of remembrance and reverence for mythological figures and events:
- Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival): This festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, is deeply rooted in Vietnamese mythology, particularly lunar legends. One popular myth associated with Tet Trung Thu is the story of Cuội, a man who, after tying his magical banyan tree to a buffalo, ascended to the moon when the tree uprooted and flew into the sky. The festival is marked by children carrying lanterns, symbolizing the moon and its light, and the sharing of mooncakes, which are round pastries filled with sweet or savory fillings. The celebration reflects the importance of family, harvest, and the protection of children, who are seen as the future of the nation.
- Hùng Kings’ Temple Festival (Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương): Held annually on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month, this festival honors the Hùng Kings, the legendary founders of Vietnam. The festival takes place at the Hùng Kings’ Temple in Phú Thọ province and includes rituals, processions, and offerings of Bánh Chưng and Bánh Dày. It is a time for the Vietnamese people to express their gratitude to their ancestors and to reinforce their national identity. The festival’s importance is such that it has been recognized as a national holiday, with millions of people participating in the celebrations each year.
Syncretism with Buddhism and Confucianism
Vietnamese mythology is not static; it has evolved through the integration of various religious and philosophical traditions, particularly Buddhism and Confucianism. This syncretism is evident in the way that many Vietnamese temples and pagodas honor both mythological figures and Buddhist deities:
- Buddhist Influence: Many Vietnamese myths reflect Buddhist concepts, such as the idea of karma and the cycle of reincarnation. For example, the story of Quan Âm Thị Kính, a woman who endures great suffering and injustice but remains compassionate and forgiving, is a Vietnamese adaptation of the Buddhist bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. Quan Âm is venerated in many Vietnamese temples, where she is seen as a protector of women and children. Her story is a powerful example of how Vietnamese mythology incorporates Buddhist teachings, particularly the virtues of compassion, patience, and forgiveness.
- Confucian Influence: Confucian values, such as filial piety, loyalty, and respect for hierarchy, are also deeply embedded in Vietnamese mythology. For instance, the story of Trọng Thủy and Mỵ Châu reflects Confucian ideals of loyalty and the tragic consequences of betrayal. Trọng Thủy, a prince from the northern invaders, marries Mỵ Châu, the daughter of the Vietnamese king An Dương Vương, only to betray her and steal the kingdom’s magical crossbow. The story ends with Mỵ Châu’s tragic death, which is often interpreted as a lesson in the dangers of misplaced trust and the importance of loyalty to one’s country.
Mythology in Modern Vietnam
In modern Vietnam, mythology continues to be a vital part of cultural identity, shaping everything from art and literature to popular media and public discourse:
- Education and Literature: Vietnamese mythology is a core component of the national curriculum, taught in schools to help instill a sense of cultural pride and historical continuity in students. Classic myths and legends are often included in literature courses, where they are studied not just as stories but as important cultural artifacts that offer insights into the values and beliefs of the Vietnamese people. Modern Vietnamese literature and poetry also frequently draw upon mythological themes, using them as metaphors for contemporary issues such as nationalism, environmental conservation, and social justice.
- Art and Media: Vietnamese mythology is a rich source of inspiration for artists, filmmakers, and musicians. Traditional art forms, such as water puppetry, often depict scenes from mythological stories, bringing these ancient tales to life for modern audiences. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Vietnamese mythology in popular media, with films, television shows, and comic books exploring these themes in new and creative ways. For example, the 2019 animated film “Truyền Thuyết Về Quán Tiên” (Legend of the Quán Tiên) blends traditional mythology with modern storytelling techniques, introducing these ancient stories to a new generation.
Vietnamese mythology is a deeply rich and diverse tradition that has played a central role in shaping the cultural and spiritual life of Vietnam. From the foundational myths of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ to the enduring influence of the Four Immortals, these stories continue to resonate with the Vietnamese people, offering lessons in morality, resilience, and the importance of community.
