Kh 10 – Angkor’s Golden Age; One of the Most Celebrated King!

"He suffered from the illnesses of his subjects more than from his own; the pain that affected men's bodies were for him a spiritual pain, and thus more piercing."

- Inscription about King Jayavarman VII

King Jayavarman VII

Since the arrival of King Jayavarman II (802-850 AD) to Phnom Kulen, Angkor has been flourished as one of recognized empire in Indo-China besides Siam and Champa. He was thought to come from Java and established the nation called Kambujadesa and claimed throne as the first Khmer King. After several wars that put the Angkor / Khmer empire suffered some decline period, it has regained its status as one of the strong nation under the reign of King Jayavarman VII (1125-1215 AD). He led the Khmer troops in war over the Champs and reclaimed the Angkor after a furious naval battle at the Tonle Sap. His successful story was engraved at the bas-relief of Bayon.

From left : West-gate of Angkor Thom, Bayon - King JayavarmanVII's achievement.

Why I choose to write about him, not others? As a follower of Mahayana Buddhist, he takes his people's suffering seriously. He was committed to built numerous monuments that not just dedicated to his ancestors - but buildings like hospital / public works that can benefit his people.

One of it that impress me most is Neak Pean - which not truly a temple that dedicated to certain idols, but for the purpose of serving common people. It serves as hospital during that time - where commoners seek treatments and the priest asked divine from Gods for the remedies.

From left : a one time hospital-temple - Neak Pean, Prasat Preah Khan built on the ste of King Jayavarman II's victory over invading Chams.

Another thing that struck me is how tolerance he is about religion. According to Dara, “He’s not extreme to any religion even though he himself a Buddhist. He built Angkor Thom and Bayon - symbols for all religion that includes Buddha, Hindu, animist and even Islam that was brought by the Champs. They enjoy the Golden Age of Angkor during his reign.”

Well, that one of King that I consider to have – the one that didn’t just build monument for himself like Pharaoh of Egypt; but the one that care about the common people. Even nowadays we’ve seen some leaders decide to care only their relatives richness and wealth and make others suffer.

Nowadays, Cambodia named their main hospital in Siem Reap - King Jayavarman VII Hospital as a dedication on the King's contribution especially to up brings the nation health. Well - its showed that every good deeds will one day become much appreciated; if not during his time but by later generation.

From left : Ta Phrom was dedicated to his mother, while Ta Som dedicating Kin Jayavarman II's father.