Signs of the Buddhist Inscriptional Language to the Way of Life of Local Community in the Khmer Prasat Group of Surin and Buriram Provinces

Abstract

             This research aimed to study linguistic signs in inscriptions, interpret those signs, and explore the application of Buddhist inscriptional language signs to the local community's way of life around Khmer sanctuaries in Surin and Buriram provinces. This qualitative study utilized both documentary research and field study. The primary sources included three inscriptions: the Prasat Ta Muen Toch inscription, the Surin 2 inscription, and the Dan Prakham inscription. Data were collected through observation forms, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussion records. The target group consisted of six specific groups selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed and synthesized from key informants and presented in a descriptive format.
             The research findings were as follows:
             1. Linguistic signs in Buddhist inscriptions: The inscriptions in the Khmer sanctuary groups of Surin and Buriram were created by King Jayavarman VII during the 18th Buddhist century (12^th Century CE). They were written in Sanskrit using Ancient Khmer script. The content structures were similar, beginning with an invocation to the Buddha and praises for King Jayavarman VII. They detailed the royal mission of constructing Arogyasala (hospitals), the installation of Buddha images, and the appointment of hospital staff. Furthermore, they listed items granted by the King and include prohibitions against causing harm to others.
             2. Interpretation of Buddhist linguistic signs: Regarding Buddhist principles, it was found that 15 distinct Buddhist Dhamma principles appeared within the inscriptions of the Khmer sanctuary groups in Surin and Buriram provinces.
             3. Application to the local community's way of life: The study revealed that local communities around these Khmer sanctuaries should apply these Buddhist linguistic signs in 4 key areas comprising 29 issues: 8 issues for Economics, 7 issues for Society, 8 issues for Politics and Administration, and 6 issues for Education.