Buddhism as the State Religion of Cambodia

 By Preah Dhammavipassanā Sam Bunthoeun (Ketudhammo)

Introduction

On July 31, 2002, a national seminar titled “The Present Situations of Religions in Cambodia” was convened by the Humanity and Social Science Institute of the Royal Academy of Cambodia. The seminar aimed to: 

- Balance the religious landscape in the country 

- Examine the evolution of various religions, particularly Buddhism and others 

- Facilitate the exchange of information, ideas, and experiences among officials and religious representatives 

- Identify solutions and objectives for religious practices 

- Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of religions, alongside the activities of Buddhism and other faiths in contemporary Cambodia. 

In this context, I present the topic “Buddhism as a State Religion.” 

Rationale for Buddhism as a State Religion

The Cambodian Constitution designates Buddhism as the state religion for several reasons. Buddhism, derived from the Pāḷi term "Buddhasāsanā," signifies the teachings of the Buddha. These teachings encompass 84,000 Dhammakkhandhas, categorized into three baskets: 

- The Basket of Discipline (Vinaya-piṭaka): 21,000 Dhammakkhandhas 

- The Basket of Discourse (Suttanta-piṭaka): 21,000 Dhammakkhandhas 

- The Basket of Higher Doctrine (Abhidhamma-piṭaka): 42,000 Dhammakkhandhas 

 

The core teachings of the Buddha can be summarized as follows: 

1.Sabbapāpassa akaraṇaṁ: Refrain from evil actions. 

2.Kusalassūpasampadā: Engage in good deeds. 

3.Sacittapariyodapanaṁ: Purify the mind. 

 

Unwholesome Actions

The Buddha identified ten unwholesome actions that disrupt societal harmony: 

1.Pāṇātipāta: Killing living beings 

2.Adinnādāna: Taking what is not given 

3.Kāmesumicchācāra: Sexual misconduct 

4.Musāvāda: False speech 

5.Pisuṇāvācā: Malicious speech 

6.Pharusavācā: Harsh speech 

7.Samphappalāpa: Frivolous talk 

8.Abhijjhā: Covetousness 

9.Byāpāda: Ill-will 

10.Micchādiṭṭhi: Wrong view 

These actions lead to societal decay, and abstaining from them fosters a peaceful existence. 

 

Wholesome Actions

Conversely, the Buddha encouraged ten wholesome actions that promote societal development: 

1.Dāna: Generosity 

2.Sīla: Good conduct 

3.Bhāvanā: Mental cultivation 

4.Apacāyana: Respect for elders 

5.Veyyāvacca: Helping others 

6.Desanā: Teaching the Dhamma 

7.Dhammassavana: Listening to the Dhamma 

8.Pattidāna: Sharing merits 

9.Pattānumodanā: Rejoicing in others' merits 

10.Diṭṭhujukamma: Straightening one’s view 

 

Theory of Kamma and Its Results

The experiences of suffering or happiness, wealth or poverty, and wisdom or ignorance are often the results of past or present kamma. Understanding this principle encourages individuals to engage in wholesome deeds for societal betterment. 

 

Mind Purification

The Buddha emphasized the importance of mind purification, stating that a well-cultured mind leads to happiness. The cultivation of the mind is essential for societal peace, as it mitigates the influence of greed, hatred, and delusion. 

 

Buddhism's Role in Cambodian Society

Buddhism has been integral to Cambodian culture and identity, with approximately 95% of the population identifying as Buddhists. It serves as a foundation for peace and reconciliation in the nation, particularly following decades of conflict. The Royal Constitution affirms Buddhism as the state religion, and a Ministry of Public Worship and Religious Affairs has been established to oversee religious institutions. 

 

Dhuras in Buddhism

Buddhism encompasses two primary dhuras: 

1.Gantha-dhura: The study of scriptures, including the Pāḷi Canon. 

2.Vipassanā-dhura: The practice of meditation and mental cultivation. 

 

Current Activities of Buddhism in Cambodia

Buddhism continues to thrive in Cambodia, with educational institutions established for both Gantha-dhura and Vipassanā-dhura. The Vipassanā Dhura Center, founded in 1996, has expanded to include numerous branches across the country, promoting mental training and meditation practices. 

 

Conclusion

Vipassanā practice is essential for alleviating suffering and cultivating a peaceful society. The teachings of Buddhism provide a framework for personal and communal development, reinforcing its status as the state religion of Cambodia.