Mr. Duong Tu Minh in the Spiritual Life of the Northern Highlanders
Abstract
Duong Tu Minh - a famous folk hero in Vietnam’s history who was credited with establishing and defending the borders of the Great Viet Country in the 12th century. After his death, the people elevated him the status of a saint and many Vietnam’s feudal dynasties conferred “Thượng đẳng thần” (The Firstclass Deity) on him. The villagers in the northern mountain areas set up communal houses and temples to worship him and considered him a tutelary spirit of the village. Worshipping of Saint Duong Tu Minh on weekdays and during special festivals has become distinctive characteristic of the spiritual life of the people in the northern mountainous areas that contributes to keeping the community solidity and reminding the people to have better behaviors as well as to be more responsible for the community. The solidarity of the community relations extends to the younger generation who are taught to “when drinking water, remember its source”.
