The Legend of Saint Gióng

The story of Saint Gióng is one of Vietnam’s oldest and most beloved legends, symbolizing patriotism, courage, and the extraordinary spirit of the Vietnamese people.

A Miraculous Birth

Long ago, during the reign of the sixth Hung King, there lived a kind, hardworking elderly couple in a small village named Gióng. Despite their prayers and efforts, they remained childless. One day, while working in the fields, the wife discovered a giant footprint. Out of curiosity, she placed her foot into it. Miraculously, she soon became pregnant.

After twelve months, she gave birth to a beautiful boy. However, he was no ordinary child. At three years old, he still could not speak, walk, or smile, and simply lay motionless.

The Rise of a Hero

One day, northern invaders known as the Ân came to attack Vietnam. Their army was so powerful that the Hung King desperately sent envoys across the land in search of heroes who could save the country.

Upon hearing the call, the silent boy suddenly spoke for the first time. He asked his mother to invite the king’s envoy to their home. When the envoy arrived, the boy requested that the king forge him an iron horse, an iron sword, and a suit of iron armor so he could fight the invaders.

The king immediately ordered the blacksmiths to work day and night. Meanwhile, Gióng began to grow at an astonishing rate. He ate enormous amounts of food, and villagers came together to help feed him. Every new set of clothes ripped apart as soon as he put them on.

The Battle Against the Invaders

When the iron horse, sword, and armor were finally completed, Gióng, now a giant warrior, put on his armor, mounted the iron horse, and charged into battle. The horse breathed fire, and Gióng’s mighty sword struck down waves of enemy soldiers.

At one point, his iron sword broke. Without hesitation, he uprooted bamboo trees along the roadside and used them as weapons. With incredible strength, he defeated the Ân invaders, sending them fleeing in terror.

After the victory, Gióng rode his iron horse up to Sóc Mountain and ascended to the heavens, becoming an immortal hero.

A Legacy That Lives On

In honor of his bravery, the king bestowed upon him the title Phù Đổng Thiên Vương, meaning "Heavenly King of Phù Đổng." Temples were built in his memory, and to this day, Vietnamese people celebrate the Gióng Festival every year in the fourth lunar month.

Legend has it that the golden bamboo at Gia Bình, scorched by Gióng’s fiery horse, still shines bright. The hoofprints of his horse became lakes and ponds, and the village burned by the horse's flames is now called Làng Cháy, meaning "Burned Village."

The Meaning Behind the Legend

The story of Saint Gióng captures the unwavering spirit of the Vietnamese people in defending their homeland. It serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, loyalty, and national pride, inspiring generations to stand strong in the face of adversity.