The Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh, Vietnam is an out-of-the-way tourist site. It’s near the Cambodian border and takes the better part of the day to get there and back from Saigon.
It’s completely fascinating, however.
The Cao Dai religion joins Christianity with other beliefs. Worshipers believe that God was created as a result of a Big Bang and that he created Yin and Yang. Not only do they worship God but also Mother Buddha.
The gentlemen pictured are worshipers taking a break outside of the temple.
Graham Greene was reportedly a Cao Dai worshiper. Go figure.
Travel Well,
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Peter West Carey says
I love learning new things! Thanks for this slice of the world I never knew existed!
Peace (Australia) says
Wow what an interesting religion – God, Mother Buddha and the big bang all in one! I like their outfits too, they look very comfortable to wear.
Dominique says
I’ve never heard of a Mother Buddha! These guys look pretty serene about it all 🙂
Debbie Dubrow says
Your people pictures always blow me away & I loved reading the background on this one – I was amazed at how much the beliefs at each temple we visited in Vietnam varied!
jessiev says
gorgeous! i love the colors.
Nik says
Very nice! I’ve heard about the Cao Dai religion from Michelle, but have never had the chance to get to know about them first hand… Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like Cao Dai is going to spread much outside of Vietnam… for now at least..
marina villatoro says
How interesting! Mother Buddha, I think that’s the first time of heard of her. I love going to out of the way places, they are usually the most rewarding.
Wonderful picture.
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wandermom says
I’m with Debbie, your people photos are spectacular.
Lorraine says
It’s the expressions, you can almost feel their thoughts coming out of the photograph. And the casual postures amidst the religious dress – so unique!