Is religion a sensitive issue in Vietnam? To understand the ‘yes and no’ answer, one must remember that, from the dawn of civilization, religion has gone hand in hand with politics, power and conquests…
Is religion a sensitive issue in Vietnam? To understand the ‘yes and no’ answer, one must remember that, from the dawn of civilization, religion has gone hand in hand with politics, power and conquests. As far as individual beliefs are concerned especially those of foreigners – Vietnam has to be one of the most tolerant societies. Actually most Vietnamese couldn’t care less if you believe or what you believe in and will not try to convert you to their own sets of beliefs. Winning converts doesn’t seem to be a Vietnamese trait although some Western religions did their best to change that state of mind.
However, it is also true that some religious groups are under closer scrutiny than others. Not for their underlying philosophies and values, but for their perceived intervention in the political arena. The role of their followers during the struggle against colonialism and during the American War has influenced the level of control placed on many groups. For instance, in the 1930s, Cao Daism was turned into a political force to fight the French occupation, while most Catholics remained more supportive of the Western presence. In a still nervous ‘post-civil war’ environment, the Government is also extremely wary of ‘hostile forces’ trying to infiltrate Vietnam or raise followers abroad. Many of those anti Government groups have apparently used religious covers to camouflage their actions. Recently, in 2002, incidents at the Cambodia border have again rekindled this fear of ‘hostile forces’ disguised missionaries. DON’T be afraid to talk philosophy and religion with your Vietnamese friends and acquaintances. Most will be extremely happy to take you to their pagodas and explain their rituals. DON’T engage in any missionary or conversion activities. This could lead to serious consequences. If this is your mission in life, you might want to consider other countries. What Vietnam needs now is a generation of peace and stability, not more foreign power influences. Any compassionate God will agree to wait a generation…DO visit all the temples, pagodas and churches you want, ask all the questions you please; just remember to respect other beliefs as you would like yours to be respected.
