via ANI/Khmer Times, 09 May 2023: The rise of Buddhism in Southeast Asia was due to multiple factors such as the influence of Indian traders, the patronage of Southeast Asian kings, the work of Buddhist monks and scholars, and the syncretic nature of the religion, resulting in a unique blend of Buddhism and indigenous religious traditions. The enduring bond between Buddhism and Southeast Asia reflects the rich historical and cultural ties between India and the region.
Despite being founded in India, Buddhism discoved a fertile ground in Southeast Asia, where it took root and flourished for centuries, shaping the region’s socioeconomic, political, cultural, religious and philosophical structures.
This connection between Buddhism in Southeast Asia and India is a testament to the religion’s resilience and adaptability in the face of a fast-changing world under challenging circumstances over two millennia.
Buddhism in Southeast Asia reveals a complex interaction between different histories, cultures and identities. Such a complex interaction involved multiple factors, including the influence of Indian merchants and traders, the patronage of Southeast Asian kings and rulers, and the work of Buddhist missionaries.
Source: Bridging Civilisations: Buddhism in Southeast Asia and its Indian link – Khmer Times
