Suvarnabhumi: A land of legend and tales or a historical fact?

Abstract

          This academic article aims to study and interpret Suvarnabhumi across five dimensions: legends and stories, archaeological evidence, literary evidence, historical facts and interpretive gaps. Content analysis of relevant documents and data is used to propose a comprehensive understanding of Suvarnabhumi. The findings reveal that:

          The term “Suvarnabhumi” does not refer to a kingdom but rather to a “period” or “civilization” in Southeast Asia, which flourished as a center for maritime trade between India and China during the 3rd-9th centuries CE. Archaeological evidence found in ancient port cities, such as Khao Sam Kaeo and Khlong Thom, confirms the region's role as a global trade hub.

          Suvarnabhumi also features religious legends found in ancient scriptures, particularly those related to the spread of Buddhism by the Venerable Sonathera and Venerable Uttarathera. This led to the region being regarded as the “Golden Land” or sacred land.

          Today, Suvarnabhumi is viewed as an interpretive gap, open to diverse meanings, be it geographical, political or symbolic of pride in the region's shared history and culture. This name remains a shared heritage that promotes study and cooperation among Southeast Asian countries.