The lecture program on the rituals and culture of the worship of “Mau” - A valuable learning session for Van Lang University students

Towards the 30th anniversary of its establishment, on April 2, 2025, Van Lang University organized the program “Lecture on rituals and culture of the worship of Mother Goddesses” to introduce the belief in Mother Goddess worship through mystical and vivid ritual performances.

The event is regarded as a occasion for students to gain deeper insights into the beauty of folk beliefs, especially the belief in “Tho Mau Tam Phu” (worship of Mother Goddesses) – an intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO on December 1, 2016. It was also an opportunity for Van Lang University to continue affirming its role as a pioneering educational institution in preserving and promoting the value of national cultural heritage.

The program was honored to welcome Dr. Nguyen Xuan Dien – a folklorist with over 30 years of work at the Institute of Han Nom Studies – as the speaker. Dr. Nguyen Xuan Dien is dedicated to researching folk arts such as “ca tru” (ceremonial singing), “cheo” (traditional opera), “quan ho” (love duets), “xam” (blind wanderers’ music), Northern Vietnam’s village culture, Han Nom culture, and especially the belief in the worship of Mother Goddesses.

The belief in the worship of Mother Goddesses in Vietnam is a system of unique spiritual beliefs, honoring female deities who play roles in creation, protection, and nurturing human life. The beauty of this belief is reflected in several aspects. Firstly, it praises the role of women and the compassion of the “Mothers” – the sacred mothers. Secondly, the belief in Mother Goddesses is associated with solemn rituals, especially the “hau dong” (a ritual of spirit mediumship). Thirdly, it reflects the philosophy “uong nuoc nho nguon” (remembering the source when drinking water), gratitude towards nature, and those who have contributed to the community. Temples and shrines dedicated to Mother Goddesses often serve as public cultural spaces, fostering community connections, cultivating a spirit of solidarity, and preserving national cultural identity. Finally, the belief carries profound humanitarian values, guiding people towards goodness, emphasizing fairness and compassion in life.

Dr. Nguyen Xuan Dien highlighted the role of the “hau dong”  – a crucial ritual in practicing Mother Goddess belief. This is a harmonious synthesis of music, dance, and body language to honor the Mother Saints in the belief system of “Tam phu – Tu phu”(Three Palaces – Four Palaces).

In addition to academic knowledge, the program also conveyed unique “hau dong” rituals performed by Doi Cung Van team and artisans from Phu Day Temple (HCMC). The audience witnessed characteristic “hau dong” sessions, including performances dedicated to “Co Doi Thuong Ngan” (Second Mistress of Mountain), “Co Bo Thoai” (Third Mistress of Water), and “Co Chin Song Son” (Ninth Mistress of Nine Wells).

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The “hau dong” ritual is a harmonious combination of music, dance, and body language.

The performances re-enacted the spiritual and artistic values through wonderful traditional performances. In the sacred atmosphere of the auditorium, each graceful movement, ancient music, and vibrant costumes created a lively experience, helping the audience appreciate the cultural depth of folk traditions. Particularly, one of the artisans participating in the “hau dong” performance was 87 years old. This truly astonished and moved the entire audience.

The program “Lecture on rituals and culture of the worship of Mother Goddesses” encouraged Van Lang University students to explore folk beliefs, thereby instilling pride and responsibility in preserving national identity. This was one of the meaningful activities in Van Lang University's 30-year journey of establishment and development.

News: Anh Thu
Photos: Tram Le