"Hầu đồng" in English is commonly translated as "spirit mediumship" or "mediumistic ritual". This is a unique spiritual practice originating in Vietnam, particularly associated with the Đạo Mẫu (Mother Goddess) religion. During hầu đồng ceremonies, a medium, typically a woman, enters a trance to become a vessel for various deities, most often the Mother Goddesses and historical heroes. The medium's performance involves elaborate costumes, music, singing, and dance, symbolizing the incarnation of different spirits. Followers participate by offering gifts, giving praise, and seeking blessings or healing. Hầu đồng showcases a vibrant cultural heritage where the boundaries between the physical and spiritual worlds are believed to momentarily disappear.

The hầu đồng ritual serves multiple purposes within Vietnamese communities. Aside from spiritual communication, it becomes a social event that strengthens communal ties. Villagers gather at temples to witness and support the medium, expressing devotion and deepening group identity. The ceremony celebrates the rich folklore and mythology of Vietnam, bringing to life legendary figures through theatrical performances. The music used in hầu đồng, called chầu văn, adds an artistic dimension as it guides the emotional atmosphere and marks transitions between various spiritual incarnations. While its religious significance remains central, hầu đồng has also attracted scholarly interest for its cultural, artistic, and gender aspects.

In modern times, hầu đồng has gained recognition as an important intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam. The Vietnamese government and UNESCO have both acknowledged its significance in preserving national identity and history. Despite periods of suppression during the 20th century, the ritual continues to attract practitioners and curious observers. Increasingly, hầu đồng blends tradition with contemporary influences, and mediums may adapt performances to suit new audiences. Its enduring popularity testifies to the continued relevance of spiritual practices in helping individuals and communities connect with their past, their ancestors, and each other, while maintaining a dynamic and evolving culture.