Bangkok

In most temples and other places of worship, in the north of Vietnam at least, a trinity of Goddesses are represented: the Goddesses of Heaven (white), Water (red) and Mountains and Forests (green). However, in many texts four Mother Goddesses will be represented, including the Goddess of Earth (yellow). The colours for Water and Heaven are often the other way around as well.

The Goddesses incarnate on earth to perform good deeds or miracles, in a different guise each time to avoid recognition. Strong followers will know of all the incarnations of the different Mother Goddesses and believe that they co-exist in spirit.

If a follower needs to call for help from the Mother Goddesses — particularly if their goals in life are not being met — they will sometimes visit a spirit medium. The problems will be explained to the medium, and they will know which incarnation, or incarnations, to call upon. The medium and entourage will be paid and a ceremony arranged at a temple –– more likely a small temple such as the one on Yen Phu Street, rather than somewhere like Phu Tay Ho — for everyone involved.