The Iconography in The Theravada Buddhist Temples of The Khmer Community in Vietnam

Thi Yen Dinh

Authors

Thi Yen Dinh Thu Dau Mot University

Abstract

The Khmer population in Vietnam constitutes a cohesive religious community, with 91.39% (1,206,059 individuals) adhering to Theravada Buddhism. Temples function as religious venues and hubs of cultural engagement for the Khmer community. This article builds upon current research on Khmer culture and art, integrating field studies at various representative temples to examine, identify, and analyze the distinctive icons present in the architecture and art of Khmer Theravada temples. The findings indicate that symbols like the Naga, the mythical bird Krud (Garuda), the Yeak, the Dharma wheel, the lotus flower, and the pattern system illustrate the convergence of Theravada Buddhist ideology and indigenous Khmer traditions. These symbols hold aesthetic significance, reflecting the worldview and life philosophy of the Khmer people in Vietnam, so they contribute to the preservation of cultural identity and moral education within the community.

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