Episode 5.16 King Jayavarman VII скачать в хорошем качестве

Episode 5.16 King Jayavarman VII

King Jayavarman VII ruled the Khmer Empire from 1181–1219 and is generally regarded as Cambodia's greatest king. He was a Mahayana Buddhist who expanded the empire after defeating the Cham invaders who had sacked Angkor in 1177. Under Jayavarman VII's rule, the Khmer kingdom saw massive construction projects. In addition to fortifying the city of Angkor Thom with walls and a moat, he oversaw the construction of numerous temples and utilitarian structures. Among his notable architectural achievements are: • Angkor Thom, including the Bayon temple at its center • Banteay Kdei • Ta Prohm • Neak Pean • Srah Srang He also commissioned the construction of rest houses, hospitals, and bridges along the extensive road network. Jayavarman VII's reign was marked by a shift from Hinduism to Buddhism as the state religion, which some scholars suggest led to decline within the empire. However, he likely incorporated Hindu narratives into his building program, as seen in the depiction of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk on the causeways leading into Angkor Thom. This decision may reflect his intention to appeal to both Hindu and Buddhist subjects. Stone inscriptions, portrait sculptures, and his extensive building program provide modern historians with a detailed record of his rule. Inscriptions describe Jayavarman VII as a great king comparable to Buddha. Portrait sculptures depict him seated in a meditative pose. He is often shown with his head slightly bent, eyes downcast, and hair in a bun, resembling the iconography of Buddha. This austere presentation suggests he was a devout and humble ruler. The city of Angkor Thom, which means "Great Kingdom", was designed as a mandala, or representation of the universe. This ambitious city served as the political and religious center of his kingdom, and its layout maximized political and religious symbolism. Angkor Thom continued to be used as a royal city by successive Khmer kings. The Chinese diplomat Zhou Daguan, who visited Angkor from 1296-97, described the splendor of life in the city, noting the pageantry of royal processions and the grandeur of the royal palace. Although no longer in its original state, Angkor Thom remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the grandeur and achievements of Jayavarman VII's reign.