Theravada Buddhism is the most widely practiced form of Buddhism in Cambodia today. Over 90% of the population follows this tradition. But when did it first arrive in the country? The answer is not simple. Theravada Buddhism’s journey to Cambodia involved centuries of cultural exchange, political changes, and spiritual evolution. Let’s explore its history step by step.
Early Religious Influences in Cambodia
Before Theravada Buddhism became dominant, Cambodia was shaped by other religious traditions. Understanding these helps explain how Theravada eventually took root.
Hinduism and the Khmer Empire
From the 1st to the 9th century, Hinduism played a major role in Cambodia. The Khmer Empire, which ruled much of Southeast Asia, built grand temples like Angkor Wat. These temples were originally dedicated to Hindu gods like Vishnu and Shiva. Kings often linked their power to Hindu beliefs, claiming to be divine rulers.
Mahayana Buddhism’s Rise
By the 8th century, Mahayana Buddhism began to spread into Cambodia. This form of Buddhism coexisted with Hinduism. Under King Jayavarman VII (1181–1218), Mahayana Buddhism became the state religion. The king built hospitals, roads, and temples, such as the Bayon Temple, which featured carvings of Buddha and bodhisattvas (enlightened beings who help others).
The Arrival of Theravada Buddhism
Theravada Buddhism arrived in Cambodia later than Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism. Historians believe it started gaining influence around the 13th century.
Connections with Sri Lanka
Theravada Buddhism originated in Sri Lanka and spread across Southeast Asia through monks and traders. By the 13th century, Sri Lankan monks traveled to neighboring countries like Burma (Myanmar) and Thailand. These monks shared Theravada teachings, which focused on the Pali Canon (the earliest Buddhist scriptures) and a simpler path to enlightenment.
Decline of the Khmer Empire
The Khmer Empire began weakening in the 13th century due to wars, environmental changes, and economic struggles. As the empire declined, the people moved away from the grand rituals of Hinduism and Mahayana Buddhism. Theravada’s emphasis on personal practice and accessibility appealed to ordinary people.
How Theravada Buddhism Became Dominant
Theravada Buddhism did not replace older traditions overnight. Its growth was gradual and tied to social and political shifts.
Role of Monks and Monasteries
Theravada monks played a key role in spreading their teachings. Unlike Mahayana monks, who often lived in large temple complexes, Theravada monks lived simply and traveled widely. They taught in local languages and focused on meditation and moral living. Monasteries became community centers where people learned about Buddhism.
Influence of Neighboring Kingdoms
Cambodia’s neighbors, like Thailand (then called Siam), also adopted Theravada Buddhism. After the fall of Angkor in the 15th century, Cambodia came under Thai influence. Thai kings supported Theravada monasteries and helped train Cambodian monks. This strengthened Theravada’s presence in Cambodia.
Royal Support for Theravada
By the 15th century, Cambodian kings began endorsing Theravada Buddhism. They saw it as a way to unite the people after years of conflict. Kings donated land for monasteries and sponsored the copying of Buddhist texts. This royal backing helped Theravada become the main religion.
Theravada Buddhism in the Post-Angkor Period
After the Khmer Empire fell, Cambodia entered a turbulent period. Theravada Buddhism provided stability and hope during these times.
Adapting to Local Culture
Theravada Buddhism blended with Cambodian traditions. For example, farmers incorporated Buddhist rituals into harvest festivals. Stories from the Jataka Tales (stories of the Buddha’s past lives) became part of local folklore. This blending made Buddhism feel familiar and meaningful.
Preservation of the Pali Canon
Monasteries became centers of learning where monks studied and preserved the Pali Canon. Monks taught villagers to read and write using Buddhist texts. This kept the language and teachings alive, even during times of war or foreign rule.
French Colonial Policies
The French initially ignored Buddhism, focusing on economic exploitation. However, they later tried to control Buddhist institutions to limit their influence. Despite this, monasteries remained vital for education and community support.
Buddhist Revival in the 20th Century
In the early 1900s, Cambodian monks and scholars started a Buddhist revival. They modernized education in monasteries and encouraged young men to become monks. This movement strengthened national identity and resistance against colonial rule.
Theravada Buddhism in Modern Cambodia
Today, Theravada Buddhism is deeply woven into Cambodian life. It survived wars and genocide to remain a source of strength.
Buddhism Under the Khmer Rouge
From 1975 to 1979, the Khmer Rouge regime tried to erase religion. Monasteries were destroyed, and monks were killed or forced to abandon their robes. Despite this, many Cambodians secretly kept their Buddhist practices alive.
Recovery and Renewal
After the fall of the Khmer Rouge, Buddhism slowly recovered. Monasteries were rebuilt, and monks regained their role as community leaders. Today, festivals like Pchum Ben (honoring ancestors) and Visakha Bochea (celebrating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death) are widely observed.
Buddhism in Daily Life
Cambodians practice Buddhism in everyday ways. Families offer food to monks each morning. Young men often become monks temporarily to earn merit for their parents. Temple visits, meditation, and listening to Dharma talks are common activities.
The Legacy of Theravada Buddhism in Cambodia
Theravada Buddhism’s history in Cambodia is a story of resilience. It adapted to changes, survived dark periods, and remains central to Cambodian identity.
Spiritual and Cultural Impact
Buddhism shapes Cambodia’s art, architecture, and values. Temples like Wat Phnom and Silver Pagoda are national symbols. The teachings of compassion, karma, and mindfulness guide personal and community behavior.
Conclusion
Theravāda Buddhism began to take root in Cambodia around the 13th century, gradually shaping the country’s religious and cultural landscape. Its spread was facilitated by various factors, including interactions with neighboring regions, the endorsement of Khmer rulers, and its deep resonance with the daily lives of ordinary Cambodians. Unlike earlier forms of Buddhism and Hinduism, which were often associated with the elite and the royal court, Theravāda Buddhism offered a more accessible and personal spiritual path, allowing it to take hold among the wider population.
Despite facing periods of turmoil, including foreign invasions, colonial rule, and political repression—most notably during the Khmer Rouge era—Theravāda Buddhism has demonstrated remarkable resilience. It has remained a core pillar of Cambodian identity, influencing everything from social customs to moral values and artistic traditions. Its ability to endure and adapt in the face of adversity highlights the profound role that faith plays in sustaining communities through even the most challenging times. By studying the history of Theravāda Buddhism in Cambodia, we gain deeper insight into how religious traditions evolve, survive, and continue to shape societies across generations.
