THE STUDY OF RECORDS ON THE KINGDOM OF CHENLA IN ANCIENT CHINESE DOCUMENTS FROM THE TANG TO MING DYNASTIES

Abstract

This research aimed to study the content recorded about the kingdom of Chenla (真腊) from ancient Chinese documents and chronicles. The researcher applied document-based research and qualitative methods, synthesizing ideas from studies addressing issues and strategies in translating historical Chinese documents and Thai texts as the research framework. The primary sources consisted of six ancient Chinese documents including historical chronicles, ancient Chinese documents, and books documenting records related to Thailand in ancient Chinese documents from the Tang Dynasty to the Ming Dynasty. The study focused on the diplomatic history between Chenla and China, as well as records of Chenla's geography, lifestyle, customs, and culture. The findings showed that the content of Chinese documents varied across different periods. Tang Dynasty records primarily emphasized Chenla's territory and borders. Song Dynasty documents expanded on Tang records and began to include details on local goods, the lifestyle of the Chenla people, and their social customs. During the Song Dynasty, private records compiled by non-governmental figures also began to emerge. In the Yuan Dynasty, Zhou Daguan documented the customs of Chenla, with most of his content aligning with Song Dynasty accounts, particularly regarding Chenla's weaving, clothing, and interactions with the Xian people. By the Ming Dynasty, the content focused on Chenla's relationship with the Chinese court through the tribute system, reflecting how both Chenla and Siam sought political and trade support from China, strengthening their diplomatic ties. The contribution of this research was the consolidation of scattered information from ancient Chinese documents into a unified body of knowledge, creating a deeper understanding of the Chenla Kingdom as recorded in Chinese historical documents. Additionally, it helped bridge gaps in academic research, enabling the dissemination of findings to the public.