Caodaism

Caodaism Left Eye

Caodaism (Vietnamese: Đạo Cao Đài) is a monotheistic religion that was established in Vietnam in 1926. It was founded by Ngô Văn Chiêu, a Vietnamese civil servant who claimed to have received a vision of the Supreme Being during a séance. The religion's full name is Đại Đạo Tam Kỳ Phổ Độ (The Great Faith [for the] Third Universal Redemption).

Beliefs

Caodaism teaches that there is one God, the same God honored in all major world religions. The Supreme Being is referred to as Cao Đài, which means "High Tower" or "Palace," symbolizing the highest spiritual place where God reigns. The religion incorporates elements from Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam, among others.

Caodaists believe in the Three Teachings (Tam Giáo):

• Buddhism: Emphasizing compassion and enlightenment.
• Taoism: Focusing on harmony and balance.
• Confucianism: Highlighting social order and moral conduct.

Practices

Caodaism has a structured hierarchy and a system of clergy that includes cardinals, bishops, and priests. The central place of worship is the Holy See in Tây Ninh Province, Vietnam. Followers participate in daily prayers, meditation, and rituals that often involve spirit communication.

Holy Texts

The primary scriptures of Caodaism include:

• Kinh Thiên Đạo và Thế Đạo (Prayers of the Heavenly and Earthly Way)
• Pháp Chánh Truyền (The Religious Constitution of Caodaism)
• Tân Luật (The New Canonical Codes)

Symbolism

The Divine Eye is the most important symbol in Caodaism, representing the omniscience of God. It is often depicted within a triangle, symbolizing the Three Teachings.

History

Caodaism was officially established in 1926 in Tây Ninh Province, Vietnam. The religion quickly grew in popularity, attracting followers from various social and religious backgrounds. During the Vietnam War, Caodaism faced persecution, but it has continued to thrive and expand, particularly in the Vietnamese diaspora.

Organization

The Holy See in Tây Ninh serves as the central administrative and spiritual center of Caodaism. The religion is governed by a Pope, who is supported by a hierarchical structure of clergy.

Festivals

Caodaists celebrate several important festivals, including:

• Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year)
• Đại Lễ Hội Yến Diêu Trì Cung (Great Festival of the Heavenly Mother)

See Also

• Vietnamese folk religion
• Buddhism in Vietnam
• Taoism in Vietnam
• Confucianism in Vietnam
• Christianity in Vietnam
• Islam in Vietnam