Jayavarman ii

Definition

Jayavarman II was a pivotal king of the Khmer Empire who ruled during the early 9th century and is often credited with founding the Angkor period. He is known for establishing the royal city of Angkor and for declaring himself a universal monarch, which set the stage for the cultural and architectural achievements that defined the Khmer Empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jayavarman II is often referred to as the first king of the Khmer Empire and is recognized for unifying various tribes in the region under his rule.
2. He declared himself a Devaraja, or god-king, linking his authority directly to divine powers and enhancing his legitimacy as a ruler.
3. His reign saw the establishment of Angkor as a significant cultural and political center, leading to an era of prosperity and artistic achievement.
4. Jayavarman II initiated large-scale temple constructions, including monuments that celebrated Hindu deities, which became central to Khmer architecture.
5. The influence of Jayavarman II's reign extended beyond his lifetime, paving the way for successive kings who continued to develop Angkor into a major urban center.

Review Questions

• How did Jayavarman II's declaration as a Devaraja influence the political structure of the Khmer Empire?
  • By declaring himself a Devaraja, Jayavarman II established a political system where kings were seen as divine rulers. This notion not only consolidated his power but also connected governance with religious legitimacy. It encouraged loyalty among his subjects, reinforcing his authority and enabling him to unify various tribes under one kingdom, thus shaping the future political landscape of the Khmer Empire.
• Discuss the architectural innovations initiated during Jayavarman II's reign and their significance for Angkor.
  • During Jayavarman II's reign, significant architectural innovations emerged, marking the beginning of what would become known as Angkorian architecture. He laid the groundwork for monumental structures that celebrated both Hinduism and Khmer culture. These innovations included intricate temple designs and massive stone constructions that not only served religious purposes but also symbolized royal power and cultural identity, leading to Angkor's status as a premier urban center in Southeast Asia.
• Evaluate how Jayavarman II’s unification of tribes under his rule set the stage for future developments in Southeast Asia's political landscape.
  • Jayavarman II's ability to unify various tribes established a foundation for centralized governance in the region, which was crucial for future developments in Southeast Asia. His reign initiated an era where subsequent rulers could build upon this unity to expand territorial control and enhance trade networks. This consolidation fostered stability that allowed cultural and economic exchanges to flourish, ultimately shaping Southeast Asia's political dynamics for centuries to come.

Related terms

Khmer Empire: A powerful Southeast Asian empire that flourished from the 9th to the 15th century, known for its monumental architecture and rich culture.

Angkor Wat: The largest religious monument in the world, originally constructed as a Hindu temple in the early 12th century during the height of the Khmer Empire.

Devaraja: The concept of 'god-king' in ancient Khmer belief, emphasizing the divine right of kings to rule and their connection to Hindu deities.