An Analytical Study of the Buddhist Symbols in the Southern Isan Khmer Castle Group DOI:

Abstract

The study on “An Analytical Study of the Buddhist Symbols in the Southern Isan Khmer Castle Group” has three objectives: 1. to study the meaning, form, development and beliefs in the construction of the Southern Isan Khmer Temple Group; 2. to study the Buddhist symbols in the Southern Isan Khmer Temple Group. and 3. to analyze Buddhist symbols in the group of Khmer temples in the lower northeastern region. This is qualitative field research by collecting data from document recordings, observation forms, and in-depth interviews with 50 individuals. Data were analyzed using descriptive methods. The results of the study found that 1. Prasat Srakamphaeng Yai, Sisaket Province, Khmer art in the style of Khmer Baphuon, built in the Brahmanic tradition; Prasat Hin Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Baphuon art mixed with Angkor Wat art, built in the Buddhist tradition. Phanom Rung Stone Castle, Buriram Province, is made of pink sandstone and was built in the Brahmanic tradition. The Ta Muen Stone Castle Group, Surin Province, is built in the Brahmanic tradition and Buddhism. 2. Buddhist symbols in the group of Khmer castles in the southern Isan region. These include the Naga Prok Buddha image in meditation posture, the image of King Jayavarman VII, Queen Sri Chai Ratchadevi, the lintel of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara radiating rays, and the one with feet like lotus flowers, etc. 3. Analyze Buddhist symbols. These include 1) the Naga Prok Buddha image in meditation posture, which is a symbol of peace, tranquillity, protection and stability in practising Dhamma. 2) the image of King Jayavarman VII, which is a belief in Avalokiteshvara. She is compared to a Bodhisattva who was born to dispel suffering for the people. 3) Queen Sri Chairachadevi, found in Phimai Castle, the wife of King Jayavarman VII, is compared to Lady Prajñāparamita, the embodiment of knowledge and wisdom who lives with Avalokiteshvara. And 4) Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara is a person of great compassion.