Religious Blending

Common to Vietnamese religious life is the mixing of multiple religions or belief systems into one religion. This practice is often called “syncretism.”

Syncretism is especially prevalent in Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, considered to be “three religions from the same source” to many Vietnamese people. Along with these three, Vietnamese combine other gods and idols into their personal beliefs and religious practices.

The most common religious practice that is interwoven into many Vietnamese religions is ancestor worship. Though Vietnamese people might claim a certain religion, many also faithfully worship and venerate their loved ones who have passed away. Ancestor worship is practiced in both urban and rural areas all over Vietnam.

Pray for Vietnamese to emerge from the confusion of combining many religions and understand that there is no other name by which they will be saved except Jesus.

Pray for Christians in Vietnam to boldly proclaim the gospel and the exclusive nature of Jesus as Lord.

