The fascinating Cao Dai religion, a unique blend of monotheism and polytheism, emerged in Vietnam during the early twentieth century. The term “Cao Dai” literally translates to “a high place,” symbolizing the supreme realm where God reigns. It also serves as an abbreviation for God’s full title in the Cao Dai faith: “Cao Dai Tien Ong Dai Bo Tat Ma Ha Tat,” denoting the Ancient Sage and Great Bodhisattva Mahasattva of Cao Dai.
According to the official Cao Dai website, Cao Dai is a universal faith that acknowledges a common divine origin for all religions. Whether one refers to God as Allah, the Tao, or the concept of Nothingness, Cao Dai emphasizes the belief in one same truth. Love and justice form the foundation of its ethical principles, while the diverse religious doctrines are regarded as various manifestations of this ultimate truth. Cao Dai followers firmly maintain that God is the founder of their religion and the entire universe. Every doctrine, system, and symbolic structure is directly instituted by “Cao Dai” itself.
_Cao Dai Temple, Tay Ninh Province. Photo: @maciek.paszeknotowpolske
As a relatively recent religion, Cao Dai is considered an intermingling of several major religions, with Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism playing significant roles. Devoted adherents faithfully practice the religious tenets of Cao Dai, including prayer, ancestor veneration, nonviolence, and vegetarianism. These practices aim to attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The Cao Dai community comprises a substantial number of followers, ranging from two to three million individuals across 38 provinces, thus solidifying its status as one of Vietnam’s major religions.
Inside Cao Dai Temple. Photo: @zaparatemdookolaswiata
Located in Tay Ninh Province, the largest Cao Dai sect embodies the birthplace of this religion. Established in 1926, this sect serves as the center of Cao Dai authority. The Tay Ninh Holy See encompasses various architectural marvels representing the Cao Dai faith. Situated in the northern part of Long Thanh, Hoa Thanh District, Tay Ninh, and merely 4 km southeast of Tay Ninh Town, it stands as a testament to the significance of Cao Dai in Vietnam. Another notable Cao Dai Temple is found in the town of Duong Dong.
For more information about Cao Daism and other captivating travel destinations, visit Travel Guide.