The Influence of Buddhism on the Worship of The Three Palaces Mother Goddess Tradition in Contemporary Vietnam: A Study of Ritual Spaces in Hanoi

This study examines the influence of Buddhism on the contemporary practice of the Mother Goddess Worship of the Three Palaces (Đạo Mẫu Tam Phủ) in Vietnam, with a focus on ritual spaces in Hanoi. It explores the interactions between Buddhist doctrines, rituals, and institutional presence, and the indigenous Đạo Mẫu practices, a vibrant and evolving spiritual tradition. Drawing upon fieldwork conducted in temples, pagodas, shrines, and palaces in Hanoi, this research reveals the syncretic nature of Vietnamese religious life, where Buddhist cosmology, moral teachings, and ritual forms have significantly shaped both the theology and performance of Mother Goddess worship. The findings highlight how Buddhism serves not only as a doctrinal influence but also as a legitimizing framework for Mother Goddess rituals, contributing to their resilience and adaptability in contemporary Vietnam. This study enriches the understanding of religious pluralism, cultural identity, and spiritual innovation in Vietnamese society.