The Influence of Naga Beliefs Related to Buddhism in Cambodia

Abstract

This qualitative research investigates the concepts and beliefs surrounding the Naga King in communities along both sides of the Mekong River and in Cambodia. Its objective is to study the role of the Naga King as a sacred being and a deity of water, as well as to analyze the influence of this belief on the communities' way of life and culture. The study found that: The communities along the Mekong River view the Phaya Naga as a powerful sacred entity, believing it can bring about abundance and rain. This belief is reflected in various rituals and architectural works in temples, where Naga statues are often found, signifying a connection to Buddhism. The belief in the Phaya Naga in Cambodia stems from three main sources: indigenous beliefs that they are descended from the Naga, as told in the legend of Preah Thong and Neang Neak; Brahmanic beliefs that see the Naga as a deity; and Buddhist beliefs that view the Naga as a protector of the religion. Therefore, the Naga symbol appears in art and ancient sites as a representation of ancestry, auspiciousness, and abundance. The belief in the Phaya Naga has been deeply integrated into people's lives and religions, influencing various rituals. It has also become a crucial part of the long-standing culture, for example, the practice of calling a man who is about to be ordained a “Nak,” which reflects the seamless integration of traditional beliefs with Buddhist principles and their continued existence as part of the Mekong communities' way of life to this day.