ความเชื่อ พัฒนาการ และอิทธิพลทางพระพุทธศาสนาที่ปรากฏในปราสาทตาเมือน (บายกรีม)

Abstract

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1) examine the architectural form, meaning, historical development, and underlying religious concepts associated with Castle Ta Muen (Baykriem); 2) study the manifestation of Buddhism within Castle Ta Muen (Baykriem); and 3) analyze the beliefs, evolution, and Buddhist influences reflected in the site. This qualitative study employed fieldwork through observation and in-depth interviews, with data analyzed using descriptive methods.

The findings reveal that: 1. Castle Ta Muen (Baykriem) is a Dharmasala, a type of religious rest house constructed for travelers. It was built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, who commissioned 121 such structures along the route from the capital city to regional centers, including the route to Phimai. Regarding its restoration, during the fiscal years 1991–1992, the 6th Regional Office of Fine Arts conducted surveys, excavation, structural reinforcement, and restoration planning. In 1993, the restoration of Castle Ta Muen (Baykriem) — the first site in the complex — was carried out alongside conservation efforts. In 1994, the Fine Arts Department restored Castle Ta Muen Tot, focusing on the main sanctuary and the library. The architectural concept of the temple is rooted in Buddhist beliefs. 2. The study of Buddhism in Castle Ta Muen (Baykriem) indicates that the lintel features a seated Buddha in meditation posture within a torana, reflecting Mahayana Buddhist iconography. 3. The analysis of religious belief, development, and Buddhist influence shows that the lintel, carved from sandstone, depicts the Buddha as Bhaisajyaguru seated in full meditation posture within a torana, holding a medicine casket. The art style is Bayon, dated approximately to the 18th Buddhist century. Inscriptions refer to the Buddha as a divine physician, aligning with Mahayana Buddhist doctrine and the Trikaya philosophy, which comprises the Nirmanakaya, Dharmakaya, and Sambhogakaya.