2015 Volume 2015 Issue 44 Pages 27-44
In most of the Khmer temples, constructed during the reign of Jayavarman VII (1181-1218 CE), there are Dhyāna Mudrā Buddha images represented on the decorative bas-reliefs around the doorways. This paper analyzes the representations of the images, focusing on the images of the lintels in Preah Khan’s temple complex. The analysis makes it clear that the lintels with the images can be classified into two groups mainly from the viewpoints of the stylistic features and the representations, and the tendencies of their arrangement in the central part of this temple complex, and that the difference between the two groups results mainly from the construction chronology of the temple complex, in other words the difference before and after the dedication of the principal image Lokeśa to the central main shrine. Then the paper attempts to analyze the symbolic meaning of Dhyāna Mudrā Buddha images and its chronological change, making reference to some old Khmer inscriptions engraved on the doorjambs and the descriptions of the foundation stele. The attempt shows us that the change of their meaning may be related to the change of the worldview represented in this temple, that is to say, the process of religious legitimation of Jayavarman VII’s kingship before and after the foundation of Preah Khan temple.
