Phrakruphonsamek: Historical Identity and the Buddhist Role with Political Society

Abstract

This research article has the purpose to study the identity of Phrakruphonsamek in the context of legends, history and Buddhist roles to the political society by the mythology of the Anthropology of religion; part participation research. The results showed that Phrakruphonsamek has an identity in the two areas of Mekong Rivers through legends, history, and local memories. In addition, he also has the dynamic of meaning as a symbol of faith to the present. In the role.  Phrakruphonsamek has reflected the political and social role to establish the "kingdom of Champasaknakaburisri" (now known as Champasak Province). After that, he had significantly placed a Buddhist foundation into an area of indigenous people (Kha-who was not Buddhism before) with a compromise on local culture.  This reflects the relationship of the adaptation between the Buddhist monks and politics in the local region of Southeast Asia.