Overview of Caodaism
Caodaism is a monotheistic religion founded in southern Vietnam in 1926. Its name comes from Cao Dai, meaning high palace, a title for the supreme God. The faith began when a group of civil servants and intellectuals, including Ngo Van Chieu, reported receiving messages from God through spirit séances. They proclaimed a third great amnesty of God, a final revelation meant to unite the world's religions and lead humanity toward peace and salvation.
Caodaism blends elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity and Vietnamese ancestor veneration. Its saints include Victor Hugo, Sun Yat-sen and the poet Nguyen Binh Khiem, who are depicted signing a covenant between God and humanity. The church is organized in a hierarchy modeled partly on the Catholic Church, with a pope figure, cardinals, bishops and priests, though women may also hold high office. Followers practice vegetarianism on set days, prayer and meditation.
The faith's most recognizable symbol is the Divine Eye, a left eye within a triangle or globe, representing God's watchful presence. Caodai temples are strikingly colorful, combining pagoda roofs, dragon columns and cathedral like naves. The Holy See at Tay Ninh, near Ho Chi Minh City, is the spiritual center. Visitors are welcome to watch noon prayers from the balcony as white, yellow, blue and red robed adherents chant in rows.
Core beliefs
- God is one, the supreme being represented by the Divine Eye.
- All great religions share a common divine origin.
- Humanity is living in the third and final era of divine revelation.
- Souls reincarnate according to karma until reaching liberation.
- Love, justice and self cultivation lead to salvation.
- The Mother Goddess is honored as a divine mother of all beings.
Practices and worship
- Four daily prayer services at 6 am, noon, 6 pm and midnight.
- Vegetarian diet on at least ten days per month.
- Meditation and self cultivation.
- Following five precepts against killing, stealing, lying, intoxication and sexual misconduct.
- Wearing white robes for ceremonies, with colors marking clergy branches.
Pilgrimage in Caodaism
The Holy See at Tay Ninh, about 90 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, is the heart of Caodaism and its main pilgrimage destination. Built between 1933 and 1955, it is a riot of color and symbolism. Many travelers combine a visit with the Cu Chi tunnels. Pilgrims also climb nearby Ba Den Mountain, a sacred peak. Smaller Caodai temples appear throughout southern Vietnam's Mekong Delta, including a notable temple in Da Nang.
Major festivals
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| Festival of the Supreme Being | 9th day of the first lunar month | A major celebration honoring God with elaborate ceremonies at Tay Ninh. |
| Festival of the Mother Goddess | 15th day of the eighth lunar month | Honors the Divine Mother with processions, offerings and colorful festivities. |
| Founding Anniversary | 15th day of the tenth lunar month | Celebrates the official founding of Caodaism in 1926. |
Etiquette for visitors
- Remove shoes before entering temples.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
- During ceremonies, stay on the upper balcony or in designated areas.
- Do not walk through the nave during prayers.
- Photograph quietly from permitted areas, without flash.
Map of Caodaism sacred sites
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Cao Dai Holy See?
Arrive before the noon ceremony, which welcomes observers on the balcony. Prayers also take place at 6 am, 6 pm and midnight.
Why is Victor Hugo a Caodai saint?
Early Caodai leaders believed they received messages from the spirit of Victor Hugo. He is honored as a guide for spreading the faith abroad.
What does the Divine Eye symbolize?
The left eye represents God watching over all beings. It reflects the yang principle and God's presence in every person.
