Tran Nhan Tong – The Wise Emperor & Devout Buddhist in Tran Dynasty

Tran Nhan Tong

Tran Nhan Tong (1258-1308). An intelligent and courageous king of the Tran Dynasty who led his people to resist two Yuan- Mongol invasions (1285 and 1288), with the assistance of General Tran Hung Đao. He also assured the security of the western and southern frontiers.

Statue of the Buddha Emperor Tran Nhan Tong
Statue of the Buddha Emperor Tran Nhan Tong

While on the throne for 14 years, he began a serious study of Buddhism. After the second victory over the Mongols, he left the throne to his son, retired to a monastery with two other monks and founded the Zen sect of Trúc Lâm. He is the author of a collection of poems, Đại hương hải ấn thi tập (Imprints on the Fragrant Sea).