The Value and Influence of Khmer Castles to the Way of Life of Native People in Buriram Province

Abstract

The objective of this research “A Value and Influence of Khmer Castles to the Way of Life of Native People in Buriram Province” is to survey archaeological site of Khmer castles in Buriram province and to analysis the value and influence of Khmer castles to the way of life of community in Buriram province. This research is to explore archaeological site of Khmer castles 69 places which spread over area of Buriram province and to collect details for current document. Then, there are some systems of data collection by interviewing scholars, the authority officials of Khmer castles in Buriram province, Buddhist monks, government officials and local wisdom scholars.

             The section of basic belief shows that the origin belief of construction of Khmer castles is to follow the idea of Brahmanism.  It imitates cosmology, specially the composition of heaven. Distinctly, it is believed that to reproduce Krailas Mountain, the abode of God Shiva or Sumeru Mountain as the center of cosmos. Each composition hides practical belief and makes people imagination to the center of cosmos as the abode of Shiva God.

             The section of value finds that it makes local identity of Buriram province example; souvenir, accommodation, house, archaeological studied site. It makes unearned income for native people, who create various styles of souvenirs from the understanding identity of Khmer castles. For social and political life, the native people lives in peaceful life because of being afraid of the sacred which they swear for protection their live. Also, the politicians refer to those Khmer castles for the benefit of politic field. Moreover, the splendid of those architectures can experience the viewers deeply in serenity.

             The section of influence shows that the Khmer castles can create a lot of energy for those who sacrifice their spiritual belief such as following or consenting of their experience and those who believe the sacred of Khmer castles. Architect imitates style of architectures and sculpture of Khmer castles and adopts for various edifice such as house, monastery, educational building and government office. For the way of life, it makes them refrain from evil action and follow to the rule and regulation of society. They do not cheat the other and not to destroy the public property.