KAYA NAGARA: CULTURAL ECOLOGY OF SUKHOTHAI ANCIENT CITY DURING 13-14th CENTURY

Abstract

During 13^th-15^th Century, Theravada Buddhism, which has its focus and emphasis on the Teachings of Buddhist Scriptures (Tripitaka), had influenced Sukhothai ancient city’s cultural development and continuously acted as a critical contributing factor to the ecological cultural elements in the city of Sukhothai such as Buddha Relics Enshrining, The Bodhi tree Planting, Buddha Footprint Enshrining including the naming of city elements as well.

Objective of this research is analysis and synthesis of the Ideological concepts on Sukhothai ancient city through the study of the four Inscriptions of Sukhothai culture that are primary historical evidence, namely The King Ram Khamhaeng Inscription, Wat Sri Chum Inscription, Wat Pamamuang Inscription and Nakhon Chum Inscription together with Sutta Pitaka, Samyutta-nikya, Salayatana vagga, and Atthakatha.  The study of the Sukhothai Inscriptions found that human body such as the head, the mouth, and the foot was used to call the directions and the space of the Sukhothai city. This metaphor of the human body system to a city is related to the concepts and the teachings of the Buddha in the Sutta Pitaka. Additionally, the description of the scriptures had further explained that the city where Buddha relics are regarded as the most important symbol represents nirvana. Buddhism’s ultimate goal showing that the need for liberation has been significant in the Sukhothai culture inscription.