That Phanom Relic: The Politics of Cultural Hegemony and Social Space in the Thai–Lao Borderland
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Abstract
This article focuses on the politics of Theravada Buddhist symbols in the dominant cultural ideologies and social spaces of the Thai-Lao borderland. We used qualitative research methods to study historical data and conduct fieldwork to find information so it could be reinterpreted within the framework of cultural hegemony and linked to the social and cultural dimensions. The results revealed that the original form of That Phanom relic was based on Hindu cosmological concepts, transmitted through Cham and Khmer art and architectural influences. It was probably built to worship Hindu deities, and later when the Lan Xang Kingdom spread its influence over the Mekong River basin, it was converted into a Lan Xang-style Buddhist reliquary. A legend that the Buddha’s breastbone relic was housed there was created to explain the change to Buddhist culture. The legend also generated the belief that any king who maintained Phra That Phanom would accrue great merit and power that would enable the country to prosper. Therefore, this relic became the symbol of prosperity in the state and was supported by royal power. Later, when Siam expanded its power over Laos, the Siamese rulers renovated and maintained the structure based on the King of Siam’s taste in art. In political relations involving Laos, Siam, and France, Phra That Phanom was contested because of its pervasive symbolism and its value as a social space during the establishment of several modern states. This situation reflects the politics of several Theravada Buddhist states in mainland Southeast Asia and reveals much about the conflict for control over this region and its people.
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