Qns: Discuss the impact that the different religion had on ancient Southeast Asia.
There were 3 religions ; Islam, Hinduism & Buddhism . These religions were guided by many ancient Southeast Asian rulers in the way they governed . In mainland of Southeast Asia , Khmer kings became Hindu devarajas or divine kings & had their people built capital cities . The kings palace represented the home of gods . Rulers of island Southeast Asia adopted Islam & called themselves sultans . Thus , their kingdoms were called sultanates . Instead of abandoning their older beliefs , they combined the older beliefs with the teachings of their new religion . When they converted to Islam , the kings no longer saw themselves as gods but they continued to use emblems of kingship , which were usually used by divine Hindukings . Today , the 3 religions ;Islam , Hinduism & Buddhism continue to shape lives of people in Southeast Asia .
Qns: How did Hinduism & Buddhism spread to Southeast Asia ?
Hinduism came to Southeast Asia around the 1st century CE . People believed that Hindu priests were invited to the courts of ancient Southeast Asian rulers to teach Indian culture . They were invited as they were 1 of the most advanced civilisations of the ancient world .
Buddhism came to Southeast Asia c.300 CE . It was believed that Indian , Chinese traders & Buddhist missionaries were responsible for the spread of Hinduism & Buddhism .
