Religious Practices in Vietnamese


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Religious Practices in Vietnamese

Religious Practice of Vietnamese: The majority of Vietnamese people claimed themselves as non-religious although they visit religious temples several times every year. According to a 1999 Census, most Vietnamese list themselves as having no religious affiliation. A 2002, Pew Research Centre Report claimed that 24% of population of Vietnam believed religion as ‘very important’. One of the most universal and spiritual practices common to Vietnamese is ancestor veneration, a practice shared with Chinese and most Asian culture.

All Vietnamese regardless of formal religious affiliation have an altar in their home or business place where prayers were offered to their ancestors. These practices are done frequently during important traditional or religious celebrations. Belief in ghosts and spirits was common. French colonialism was resisted at many levels and in various forms. All nationalists had to decide how they could become ‘modern’. In the late 19th century, resistance o French domination was very often led by Confucian scholar-activists.

Phan Boi Chau: One such nationalist was Phan Boi Chau (1867-1940) who formed the Revolutionary Society with Prince Cuong De as the head in 1903. His plan was to make use of the monarchy. Phan Boi Chau met the Chinese reformers Liang Qichao (1873-1929) in Yokohama in 1905. Phan’s most influential book, The History of Loss of Vietnam was written under the strong influence and advice of Liang Qichao.

Phan Chu Trinh: Nationalist like, Phan Chu Trinh (1871-1926) was intensely hostile to the monarchy and opposed to the idea of resisting the French with the help of the court. His desire was to establish a democratic republic, influenced by the democratic ideals of the West, he did not want a wholesale rejection of Western civilisation.

 
 


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