STUDYING THE NANHAI GUANYIN OF THE SOUTHWESTERN COASTAL COMMUNITY

Abstract

The paper aims to present the beliefs and practices related to Nam Hai  Bodhisattva (Nanhai Guanyin) of the fishermen in the Southwest coastal area, which based on the research data in two specific communities: An Thuy commune (Ba Tri district, Ben Tre province) and Song Doc town (Tran Van Thoi district, Ca Mau province). Research results show that in the conception of people there, the Bodhisattva has blessed them with a smooth journey at sea and a prosperous fishery. The practice related to Nam Hai Bodhi-sattva (Nanhai Guanyin) is showing its uniqueness and diversity in the religious activities of the community, especially the local group of Chinese people. Due to the developing and expanding fishery along with its risks, the beliefs of  Nam Hai Bodhisattva (Nanhai Guanyin) have become more worshipped by the local fishermen than ever before. Since then, these beliefs continue to stick with the spiritual life of the fishermen in the Southwest coastal region.