BUDDHIST BELIEFS IN SIKHORAPHUM CASTLE

Abstract

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the forms, meanings, development, and religious concepts underlying the construction of Khmer temples, as well as to analyze Buddhist beliefs manifested in the Sikhoraphum Sanctuary. The study highlights the influence of Buddhism in transforming former Saivite religious structures into Buddhist sites. The findings reveal that Khmer temples exhibit distinct architectural characteristics and can be classified into three main types: Hindu sanctuaries (Devasthana), Dharma halls (Dhammasala), and healing sanctuaries (Arogyasala). These structures served as venues for Hindu rituals and later absorbed influences from Mahayana and Theravāda Buddhism. Sikhoraphum Sanctuary, a Khmer-style religious monument, was originally constructed around the 17th Buddhist century in the Saivite tradition and later underwent restoration during the Lan Xang Kingdom in the 22nd Buddhist century. This restoration introduced Lan Xang architectural features, especially visible in the southern prang. Additional evidence of Buddhist influence includes bases of Buddha images within the principal and subsidiary towers, as well as stone inscriptions documenting religious transformations. These serve as tangible evidence reflecting Buddhist beliefs, specifically: (1) the renovation of Hindu sanctuaries into Buddhist ones, (2) the construction of Buddha image bases, (3) inscriptions detailing temple restorations, and (4) the organization of Buddhist activities within the sanctuary grounds. Such evidence underscores the role of Buddhism in shaping local belief systems and cultural expressions, particularly during the period of Lan Xang’s influence in the lower Northeastern region of Thailand. At present, the sanctuary continues to function as a center for Buddhist cultural activities, including weekly almsgiving, the promotion of important Buddhist holidays such as Māgha Pūjā Day, and traditional festivals like Loy Krathong. These practices affirm the continued significance of Sikhoraphum Sanctuary as a local hub for Buddhist culture, especially in Sikhoraphum District, Surin Province, where the community remains deeply rooted in Buddhist faith and teachings.