Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Mythology: The Roots of a Nation

Vietnamese folklore is a vast treasure trove, reflecting the history, soul, and intellect of the nation. Legends and myths, passed down through generations, have become an integral part of the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people. From stories about the origins of gods and national heroes like Saint Giong, Son Tinh, and Thuy Tinh, to tales about the origins of villages and mountains, all contain profound lessons about morality, courage, and wisdom.

Saint Giong, the hero who fought off foreign invaders with extraordinary strength, is a symbol of the nation’s patriotism and indomitable spirit. Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, the battle between the Mountain God and the Water God, represents humanity’s constant struggle against nature and the desire to conquer it.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Wisdom of the People

Folk songs and proverbs are precious gems in the treasure trove of folklore. Concise and meaningful folk songs express the emotions and worldview of the Vietnamese people. Love for one’s homeland, love for lovers, family affection… all are expressed sincerely and deeply through sweet and poignant folk songs.

Proverbs, with their brevity and concision, contain valuable life lessons about life, production, people, and society. Proverbs such as “Necessity is the mother of invention” and “One who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree” have become life lessons passed down from generation to generation.

Festivals: The Vibrancy of Culture

Festivals are an indispensable part of Vietnamese cultural life. From major festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), Hung King Temple Festival, to smaller festivals in different regions, each festival has its own meaning, reflecting the beliefs, customs, and traditions of that locality. Festivals are occasions for people to gather, play, and entertain, showing respect for ancestors, deities, and praying for a good new year.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is an important task for every Vietnamese citizen. We need to join hands to preserve traditional cultural values and pass them on to future generations so that folklore will endure forever.