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You are here: Home / Learn / About Viet Nam / Culture

Culture

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. . . the Issacharites, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do . . . .   1 Chronicles 12:32 (HCSB)

Understanding the people, geography and especially the culture of the Vietnamese people is a critical component as we seek to effectively share the love of Jesus Christ.  In the short space here, it is not possible to give a completely thorough description of Vietnamese culture – but here are a few key aspects of the culture that we feel are particularly important.  You are also encouraged to view other resources as highlighted on this site or do some searches and find more information elsewhere.

1) Not Mono-Cultural
There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to reaching the peoples of Vietnam, but the message and need remains the same across all.  With significant populations of fifty-four distinct people groups physically residing within the country, some variations in culture, norms, customs and social interaction is assured.  There are also regional variations (north, south, central, coastal, delta) that can come into play as well as typical socio-economic differences.  One of the most prevalent influences on Vietnamese culture historically has been Chinese culture.

The website for the Vietnam Embassy in the U.S.A. addresses this mixed cultural aspect in this way:

It can be said that there were three layers of culture overlapping each other during the history of Vietnam: local culture, the culture that mixed with those of China and other countries in the region, and the culture that interacted with Western culture. The most prominent feature of the Vietnamese culture is that it was not assimilated by foreign cultures thanks to the strong local cultural foundations. On the contrary, it was able to utilize and localize those from abroad to enrich the national culture.

2) Confucian Culture
With the impact of Chinese culture comes hand in hand the impact of Confucianism on Vietnamese society.  Confucianism is a philosophy or set of behaviors and ethics that define the position of the individual in society.  The emphasis is on the ‘obligations’ of the individual toward others which is based upon the relationship between them.  On the positive side, Confucianism stresses duty, loyalty, honor, filial piety, respect for elders and seniority, integrity and sincerity.  From a negative aspect, Confucian culture can hinder love and compassion for others regardless of their station in life and promote only reciprocal relationships.  Exaggerated filial piety and an unwillingness to ‘step out of the norm’ can also provide a greater barrier for an individual to be their first in their family or network of relationships to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

vanmieuhanoi
The Van Mieu Confucian temple in Hanoi

3) Face, Family and Group
Similar to other Asian cultures, the concept of face – a mixture of reputation, prestige, responsibility and acting according to the norms appropriate to one’s place in society – is very important for understanding Vietnamese culture.  This type of responsibility also closely correlates with the focus on family and group in the culture.  Strong, close knit nuclear and extended families are common and making decisions based on the expectations of family and group is prevalent.

4) Effects of War, Tragedy, Struggle and Conflict
Many foreigners and likely all Americans will refer to it as “The Vietnam War”.  For the Vietnamese it is “The American War”.  Any visit to Vietnam today will bring many visual reminders of the war from the 60’s and 70’s.  Other less visual negative effects remain to be sure but by and large much of the population seems to have tried to put that major conflict behind them.  This is evidenced at least in part by the rapidly growing relationship between Vietnam and the U.S. – politically, economically and even militarily.  The American/Vietnamese War however is only one of many times of war, tragedy and conflict for this country.  In 1944-45, when the population of Vietnam was only around 20-25 million, close to 10% of the population – over 2 million people – died as a result of famine.  Foreign powers occupying Vietnam also include France, Japan and the Chinese who ruled over the country as one of their own provinces for 1,000 years.  More recently, the Chinese again attacked the country of Vietnam in 1979.  Internal conflict has also been common including civil war as well as the Vietnamese overthrow of the Cham peoples from the center part of the country, the Khmer peoples from the south and other military advances into Laos and Cambodia.  Even just the struggle for existence, especially within or along the mountainous central region, has left it’s mark on the collective culture of Vietnam.  Through all of these, a perseverance and pragmatism has emerged that is evident in the personality and attitude of most all Vietnamese.

4) Effects of Development and Modernization
The economic policy of “Doi Moi” or “Rennovation” was implemented by the government of Vietnam in 1986, ushering in a new era with a more open focus on a market economy.  Current day Vietnam continues on a rapid rise of economic growth as well as commercial and infrastructure development.  From the year 2000 to 2010, the basic economy tripled with Vietnam’s overall economy going from USD $27 billion to $79 billion and the GDP per person went from USD $351 to $902.  With this development and growth there is an accompanying shifting of values and much growth in excessive materialism.  A recent survey of Vietnamese between 15 and 64 found that 7 in 10 believe that success is defined by their job and do not view the ‘showing off’ of wealth as a negative.  Nearly 50% of respondents to the survey said that money was the most important thing in their life.

5) Culture of Youth
Over half of the current population of Vietnam is under the age of 35.  That is 45 million people who were born after reunification at the ending of the American-Vietnam War in 1975.  This young demographic has many implications.  Recent surveys shows this younger population to be characteristically optimistic which impacts the country as a whole.  This youthful demographic has not gone unnoticed by the commercial sector and drives much of the multinational corporate attention on Vietnam.  The youth of Vietnam are being heavily courted to develop brand loyalty (and the younger generation is in turn translating consumer awareness to their parents).  The younger demographic of Vietnam further brings a greater focus on health and fitness (physical, mental and relational); technology; education and entertainment.

 

 

 

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Saigon has a population of over 10 million people Saigon has a population of over 10 million people and 10 million names. That's a lot.

Scripture speaks of God knowing us by detail and especially by name. Speaking a person's name adds a personal touch in communication. The names we bother to learn can reveal a lot about our level of respect and compassion for people.

“I hope to see you soon, and we will talk face to face. Peace be with you. The friends send you greetings. Greet each person by name.” 3 John 14

The writer, John, from this book cared enough to greet ‘each' person by name. 

In our daily work, we meet and pass by many people. We communicate with each of them through our interaction. Ask God, who knows each person by name, to help Vietnamese respect and value those they come in contact with as His precious children. #pray4vietnam
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#work #names #communication #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
Ha sets up on the sidewalk selling young coconuts Ha sets up on the sidewalk selling young coconuts to quench thirsts of customers passing by on hot days. More people are likely to buy from her if she makes eye contact and smiles. Our actions can have a great impact on people each day. 

“And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” 
Colossians 3:17 and later in verse 23, “Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men”

Our task is to do our work wholeheartedly as if we were working for Jesus. If we are Christ-followers, how we treat others and how diligently and faithfully we do our work reflects on our Lord.

Jesus, show me how to honor You in my work today. Amen. Pray for Vietnamese to do their day's work in pursuit of goals that honor God. #pray4vietnam
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#work #focus #smallbusiness #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
Delivery drivers in Saigon search their phone apps Delivery drivers in Saigon search their phone apps to vie for the next work order. Our workplaces offer unlimited opportunities for selfish ambition---but God desires us to strive for the direct opposite. 

1 Corinthians 3:9, Paul writes, "For we are God's fellow workers...." we have a part and God has a part. We can't do God's part and God has chosen not to do our part. We are privileged to be invited into the work God is doing.

Ask the Holy Spirit to enable Vietnamese believers to speak God's truth to colleagues and be about activities that would offer introductions to God to fellow workers.

Jesus, in my work today, let my thoughts be on how you would react and let my actions follow. When opportunities arise to share Your faithfulness in my life, let words give you credit and glory. #pray4vietnam
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#work #focus #delivery #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
Xanh multi-tasks watching over several pots and pa Xanh multi-tasks watching over several pots and pans to serve her customers ban xeo, a savory dish somewhere between a crepe and an omelet made with rice flour and coconut milk.

At the beginning of the chapter in Acts 6, concern over widows receiving food was increasing. Verse 3 records that a group of men were appointed to take care of food distribution. "Therefore, brothers, selection from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we can appoint to this duty.

Every day, someone feels unseen, overlooked, though we are looking right at them. Ask God to open eyes to see what He sees and for us to respond with His Spirit and wisdom. Pray for unbelieving Vietnamese to know God sees them. #pray4vietnam
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#work #focus #crepe #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
In the New Testament, Paul wrote to Timothy as an In the New Testament, Paul wrote to Timothy as an encouragement to the young church leader to better help him understand his duties.

2 Timothy 4:5 - "But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry."

In our world, darkness is a temptation and distraction to many. What seems like good is really not.

You have seen and heard it, and sometimes it passes over without a struggle. Pray right now for clear understanding and victory in lives that are being led away from what is True. Ask God to make His presence known as the One True God. #pray4vietnam
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#evangelism #focus #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
Labor continues on restoring Notre Dame Cathedral Labor continues on restoring Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon. 

In the Book of Nehemiah (chapter 2:7-8) Nehemiah faced a building project that would require resources far above what he had, and because he had planned ahead to know what preparations would be needed, he was able to ask the king and his requests were granted.
 
Costs in time and money must be considered for projects.

Jesus said, “For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down, and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it?” Luke 14:28

Praise God for His provisions for projects beginning in the next few weeks. Pray for Vietnamese Believers to be committed to see several projects to the finish. #pray4vietnam
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#construction #work #building #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
Loc works in the evening time selling drinks to br Loc works in the evening time selling drinks to bring in additional monies for her children and husband. Mother's Day is days away and thanks be to God for mothers who work long and tireless hours for the good of their family. [second photo - Cảm ơn Mẹ = Thank you Mom]

The book of Judges from the Old Testament recognizes a woman judge named Deborah. She was known as a supreme commander by military hierarchy. Her governance was so good that “the land had rest for forty years” Judges 5:31, a rare occurrence at any point in Israel's history.

"But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of the rest, ---yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me." 1 Corinthians 15:10

Praise God for His ever-present strength in mother's hearts to care and especially lead their families according to His will. Pray for Vietnamese mothers to be encouraged and blessed. #pray4vietnam
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#mothers #work #thankyou #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
In the Old Testament, the book of Joshua records c In the Old Testament, the book of Joshua records celebrating the Passover in chapter 5 with produce from the land they worked in Canaan. The very next day, the manna that God had provided to the Israelites for the previous 40 years stopped. No more free food.

God had no intention of making the divine gift of manna a permanent solution to the problem of provision. The land was to be worked.

While God may provide miraculously at times for our physical needs, the norm is for us to subsist on the fruit of our labors.

1 Corinthians 15:51 - The apostle Paul exhorted the believers in Corinth, "Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."

Where are you called to produce? What ‘land' do you need to work? 

Thank you, God, for miraculous provisions, thank you for our daily food and work that you give us. Meet needs of Vietnamese Believers that they may know you are the God of provision as they work. #pray4vietnam
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#labor #construction #building #prayerchangesthings #verseoftheday #Jesusloves #believers #bibleverse #blessed #scripture #salvation #church #churchplanting #vietnamese #LORD #God #Jesus #Bible #faith #goodnews #gospel #prayer #missions #saved #pray #vietnam
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Scripture speaks of God knowing us by detail and especially by name. Speaking a person's name adds a personal touch in communication. #pray4vietnam bit.ly/37SoQPn 2 days ago

test Twitter Media - Scripture speaks of God knowing us by detail and especially by name. Speaking a person's name adds a personal touch in communication. #pray4vietnam https://t.co/TMlth4IF6D https://t.co/yatzWsvixL

“And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17 #pray4vietnam bit.ly/3LzN53i 4 days ago

test Twitter Media - “And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17 #pray4vietnam https://t.co/p6F3BrBGBP https://t.co/VpqYcfNb1N

Pray for the Laha peoples of Vietnam this week that they might be reached with the Gospel! bit.ly/3MSWST3 6 days ago

1 Corinthians 3:9, Paul writes, "For we are God's fellow workers...." we have a part and God has a part. #pray4vietnam bit.ly/39sNTZQ 1 week ago

test Twitter Media - 1 Corinthians 3:9, Paul writes, "For we are God's fellow workers...." we have a part and God has a part. #pray4vietnam https://t.co/R9TtPqtyDV https://t.co/nsG8eIFUEq

At the beginning of the chapter in Acts 6, concern over widows receiving food was increasing. #pray4vietnam bit.ly/3vMGSdC 2 weeks ago

test Twitter Media - At the beginning of the chapter in Acts 6, concern over widows receiving food was increasing. #pray4vietnam https://t.co/poRjsr9NNX https://t.co/pz60e1gzLh
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