Tran Quoc Tang was the third son of the legendary hero Tran Hung Dao and was bestowed the title Hung Nhuong Vuong. Gifted with both talent and a formidable personality, he was once misunderstood by his father as harboring rebellious intentions, leading to his exile to Cua Suot in Quang Ninh, where he served as an official overseeing the Dai An seaport. He successfully defended the region against Yuan dynasty invasions and fostered prosperity for the local people. The locals revered him deeply, honoring him as “Duc Ong” (The Great Lord) and establishing a temple in his name at Cua Ong.

Though he was one of the four sons of Tran Hung Dao—collectively known as the Four Princes—he is the only one enshrined within the Tran lineage. Following his father’s passing, he was unable to attend the funeral due to his father’s lingering suspicions regarding his loyalty. Despite this profound injustice, he remained steadfast in his devotion to the nation, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the maritime borders of the East Sea. He is revered by posterity as “Duc De Tam Pho Suy Dong Hai Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tang,” while in the spiritual practice of Hau Dong, he is commonly addressed as “Duc Ong De Tam” or “De Tam Duc Thanh Ong Cua Suot Cua Dong.” A line from the invocation chant dedicated to him reads:

“The third holy son of the Tran Dynasty, the Great Lord of the East Sea, descends in his royal carriage.”

During Hau Dong ceremonies, practitioners typically dress in red or white robes to honor him and perform ritual seals similar to those of his father, including ascending the sacred altar, tongue-cutting rituals to bestow blessings, and performing protective incantations. A verse praising his achievements states:

“During the Tran era, the expansion of the Southern Sea was led by the Third Lord of noble golden lineage.”

To commemorate his contributions, the local people established Cua Ong Temple in Quang Ninh, which remains the largest and most majestic site dedicated to his worship. The primary festival in his honor is held annually on the 3rd day of the 2nd lunar month.

See more: Cua Ong Temple: A 700-Year-Old Historical Relic in Quang Ninh