Jayavarman V.

Jayavarman V. (* 958 in Angkor, Cambodia, † 1001) was 968-1001 king of the Khmer Empire of Angkor.

Early years

Jayavarman V. succeeded his father Rajendravarman II to the throne in front of Angkor, when he was only just 10 years old. In his early years throne councils were naturally responsible for the official policy. The teacher who taught him in his early years, was the well-read Yajnavaraha, a grandson of King Harshavarman I. He is considered an important researcher who dominated the teachings of the Buddha, medicine and astronomy. 967 let it build the temple of Banteay Srei, lies 20 km northeast of Angkor and is regarded as the jewel of Khmer art. For independent Banteay Srei style (968 - 1001), among others include lush, detailed and very plastic reliefs. The building was badly hit during a thunderstorm, which was considered a bad omen. The priests were performing a sacred ritual to drive away evil spirits.

Leading elites

The aristocratic families dominated the court of Jayavarman V. Briggs writes:

"There was probably no government in the ancient Khmer who has mentioned in the inscriptions more excellent ministers, researchers and dignitaries than that of Jayavarman V. "

So the Saptadevakula Klan dominated the majority of the daily transactions of the royal family. This family probably also helped Suryavarman I. as the successor of Jayavarman V. to the throne.

Mahayana Buddhism

Even if Jayavarman clung to Shaivism, he also tolerated quite Buddhism, which flourished under his government. Kirtipandita be Buddhist minister, brought many texts from foreign countries to Cambodia, but none could be found to this day.

Buddha teaches tolerance towards other living beings. The rise of Buddhism also led to more women in important positions in the country. The younger sister of Yajnavaraha, Jahavi, helped in raising funds for the temple of Banteay Srei, which was not founded by the king.

Posthumous name

Jayavarman ruled more than 30 years ( 968-1001 ) and his reign was peaceful and prosperous. He died in 1001 and was named Paramashivaloka.