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Empire

185. The God Kings of Angkor Wat

Sep 11, 2024
The rise of the Khmer Empire is a tale of power and divine rulers, with Jayavarman II uniting clans to create a civilization richer than Byzantium. Angkor Wat’s architectural marvels reflect this grandeur, blending divine king symbolism with intricate design. As the podcast dives into the significance of the god-kings, their godlike status intertwined with Brahmin influence is revealed. The discussion also highlights Cambodia’s cultural evolution, emphasizing the deep ties to Hinduism while contrasting this majestic past with the dark shadows of more modern history.
55:20

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Quick takeaways

  • The Khmer Empire began in the 9th century with Jayavarman II's unification of clans and establishment of divine kingship.
  • The construction of Angkor Wat exemplifies the Khmer Empire’s architectural brilliance and deep cultural roots influenced by Indian civilization.

Deep dives

Origins of the Khmer Empire

The Khmer Empire, also known as the Empire of Angkor, traces its origins to the sacred hills of Phnom Kulun, where Prince Jayavarman II initiated the empire's formation around the 9th century. This ceremony not only marked the beginning of a powerful Hindu kingdom but also established a direct link between kingship and divine authority, reflecting a belief that kings were incarnations of gods. Over time, the Khmer Empire evolved into one of the world's wealthiest and most powerful states, showcasing enormous temples and sophisticated urban planning. Despite its grandeur, much of this ancient civilization remains underappreciated in Western historical narratives.

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