Dvaravati : The Routes of Buddhism Propagation in Thai Society

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are twofold: 1) to examine the routes of Buddhism propagation in the Dvaravati civilization, and 2) to present the study's findings on these routes within Thai society. This research adopts a documentary and qualitative research approach, involving the study of information from books, textbooks, relevant research documents, as well as field visits. The primary focus is on investigating and proposing the routes of Buddhism propagation, while also deepening our understanding of the Dvaravati civilization. The intention is to establish a comprehensive connection to the broad knowledge of the Dvaravati civilization and to provide benefits to those interested in the subject.

The study revealed that the routes of Buddhism propagation in the Dvaravati Civilization in Thai society were influenced by the interconnection of civilizations influenced by India. This movement occurred during the 6th to 18th Buddhist centuries and involved trade contacts with Indians who brought with them their arts, ancient sites, antiquities, culture, and religion. As a result, a map model depicting the propagation routes was created, representing the early pre-Dvaravati period, early Dvaravati period, middle Dvaravati era, and late Dvaravati era in India.