The Buddhism in Vietnam: History, Cultural and Social Relationship

Abstract

The objectives of this research are to study the history and development of Buddhism and its social and cultural roles and to analyze the trend of Buddhism in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Documentary and field researches were implemented in northern, central and southern regions of the country. The study found that in the early period, Vietnam was under the rule of China for a thousand years. Then the country was influenced by Buddhism, Taoism and the belief of worshipping ancestors. Vietnam then fell under the French colony that severely deteriorated Buddhism. Buddhists’ role in national administration was diminished. Liberation movement against France took place. Monks had a leading role in protesting for Buddhism protection and they even committed self-burning suicide. Vietnamese Buddhist association was also established. In post-colonization period, as Vietnam was divided by the Geneva Resolution, Sangha council was separated into socialist system in the north and democratic system in the south. Ho Chi Minh later liberated North Vietnam and conjugated South Vietnam into a unitary state. Religious organizations, thus, comply themselves with the aim and principle of socialist communist system.

          Findings on social and cultural roles of Buddhism in Vietnam: Buddhism in Vietnam is mainly in Mahayana sect in the north that most believers are Kinh ethnics. They believe in Bodhisattva and Buddha’s Pure Land that immensely influence the people’s belief.  Theravada sect takes major role in the south. Most followers are Khmer Krom ethnics. They have their own Buddhism identity within Khmer culture. Temples and shrines reflect the cultural diversity influenced by Chinese, Indian and western culture.  Furthermore, there are important traditions and rites related to Buddha and Bodhisattva especially the birth and enlightenment memorial days. There is also another special ceremony called Ted, the traditional New Year’s event, for paying homage to the significant persons, ancestors and angels.  iIn addition, monks have their roles in promoting education, social welfare, community development, arts and culture that Sangha councils in central, provincial and district levels take their roles in various administration and support.   

For the trend and direction of Buddhism in Vietnam, it has been found that the relationship between the government and religious sector in Vietnam has been proceeded through religious, cultural and traditional activities in order to diminish conflicts in the past and to enhance stability of both parties. The situation of Buddhism has been relieved and destined for the better after monk Thich Nhat Hanh was able to visit his hometown with a warm welcome in Vietnam that attracted international community. Furthermore, Vietnam hosted an International Buddhist Conference with the highest number of Buddhist participants in May 2008. However, Buddhism in Vietnam is still under the supervision of the government and has its role in the mid of diversity under the fundamental belief and other religions that can be characterized as “Vietnamese Buddhism Model”.