Cambodia

Rebirth of the Dharma

TheGentleLaw Community

Cambodia’s relationship with Buddhism is both ancient and scarred. From its golden age under the Khmer Empire to the genocide of the Khmer Rouge, Buddhism in Cambodia has endured centuries of glory and trauma. Today, Theravāda Buddhism is not only the state religion but a vital force in the country’s cultural and moral recovery.

Ancient Roots and Royal Patronage

Though early Khmer civilization was deeply influenced by Hinduism and Mahāyāna Buddhism, Theravāda Buddhism took root in the 13th century. It flourished with royal support and gradually became a cornerstone of Khmer identity. Angkor Wat, originally a Hindu temple, later saw Buddhist use, and temples like Bayon feature serene Buddha faces gazing in all directions.

Monasteries (wat) became centers of education, art, and healing. For centuries, young Cambodian men ordained temporarily as monks to gain moral and spiritual instruction before returning to lay life. A tradition still practiced today.

The Catastrophe: Buddhism Under the Khmer Rouge

From 1975 to 1979, the Khmer Rouge regime under Pol Pot attempted to erase religion from Cambodia. Temples were destroyed, scriptures burned, and monks disrobed or executed. It’s estimated that 25,000 monks were killed, and 95% of the monasteries were damaged or destroyed.

This spiritual decapitation left a deep wound. But even in labor camps and prisons, whispers of the Dhamma survived. Some elders continued to chant in secret. After the fall of the regime, the reemergence of Buddhism became central to the national healing process.

The Revival: Healing Through the Sangha

In the 1980s and 90s, Cambodia saw a Buddhist revival. With the support of neighboring countries, especially Thailand and Sri Lanka, monks were re-ordained, and temples rebuilt. The Cambodian government officially reinstated Buddhism as the state religion.

Today, Cambodia has more than 5,000 active wats and over 50,000 monks. Monasteries again function as spiritual, social, and educational centers. Many also serve as orphanages, schools, and shelters for the poor, offering free meals, meditation instruction, and moral guidance.