Religion of Khmer

Theravada Buddhism is the state religion of Khmer, at least 95 percent of the population of the country practicing Buddhism, pagodas and monasteries **** there are 2,800, more than 80,000 monks. The monastic community is divided into two systems: the monks who live far away from the world and meditate in the mountains; and the young monks who make the Buddhist monasteries the centers of religion and worldly learning. Men were expected to become monks at least once in their lives, even if they were kings or princes. Men who have not become monks are regarded as immature, vulgar and indecent by the national society. Khmer is a typical Buddhist country where both the king and the monks set an example by nurturing the national virtues of simplicity, modesty, courtesy and patience.

In 1970, there was a war in Khmer. In 1975, Buddhism lost its traditional royal patronage, some monks went into exile, most of the 80,000 monks were rehabilitated or martyred, and all the temples and pagodas were almost entirely closed. After 1979, the new government began to take an interest in the revival of Buddhism, although restrictions were placed on men under the age of fifty and women were required to pass a rigorous examination to become monks. Nevertheless, young monks can still be seen occasionally in the countryside.

In addition to the restoration of the status of the monks who had returned to secularism, some of the monasteries that had been destroyed were rebuilt, well-preserved ancient classics and Buddhist books were gradually collected, and the monks were given the right and freedom to hold pujas, within certain limits. Many foreign Buddhist organizations visited, gave financial and material support, and reprinted ancient texts, and it was clear that Buddhism was in the process of revival.

As for the monks stationed abroad, they also actively propagate the Dharma abroad, especially in the United States, where there are more than 50 Khmer monasteries. Although Khmer Buddhism once faced a crisis, but the Dharma has long been y rooted in the hearts of the Khmer people, all external factors can not shake their confidence and enthusiasm for the Dharma.